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An Introduction to Preksha Meditation’ "O*OUSPEVDUJPO UP 1SFLTIB.FEJUBUJPO .VLIZB/JZPKJLB4BEIWJ7JTISVU7JCIB "O*OUSPEVDUJPO UP 1SFLTIB.FEJUBUJPO .VLIZB/JZPKJLB4BEIWJ7JTISVU7JCIB © Jain Vishva Bharati, 2009 Published by: Jain Vishva Bharati Ladnun, Rajasthan, India ISBN 81-7195-136-8 First Edition : 2009 Cover and Book Design by: Shivani and Sanjeev Bothra [email protected] Type Setting at: HyperLink-India Printed at: Payorite Print Media Pvt. Ltd. Udaipur, India ~ 2 ~ Blessings his world is dualistic. Matter and consciousness are the two Tseed elements of its existence. Both can be useful as well as problematic. The basic three potentialities of matter are to sustain life, fullfil needs and bring satisfaction. The fundamental sources of consciousness are three senses, mind and emotions. Sensual perception of matter makes the mind fickle, sprouting the seeds of desire and attachment in the emotional area of the brain. The whole system creates the cycle of endless problems and sorrow. The medium to break this cycle is restrainment of senses, concentration of mind and purity of emotions. This is the role objective of Preksha Meditation. Preksha Meditation has two principle aspects - 1. Practice of concentration of mind. 2. Practice of being thoughtlessness Breathing, Psychic centers, colours and mantra, practices render primary support at the initial stage, Contemplation is also the supportive element of Preksha Meditation. The practice of contemplation is very effective for bringing change in habits and transformation of consciousness. Alternatively practice of meditation and contemplation, being backbone strengthen the spiritual practice. ~ 3 ~ Chanting of Mantras is also very helpful and influential. In Preksha Meditation one concentrates on sound and vibration to travel beyond them. A practitioner can never reach at the level of excellence right at the beginning step. Hence methodology has been designed, keeping in view the progressive development in this field. The practice of Upasampada (guiding principles of Preksha Meditation) builds the basic found- ation of meditation and contemplation and thus leads to the ultimate destination. Mukhya Niyojika sadhvi VishrutVibha has written this introductory book on Preksha Meditation for its awareness. It will help to draw a clear picture of its objective and methodology. It is essential to understand Preksha Meditation in a simple and scientific way. I hope this book will fullfil this need. 8th May, 2009 Ladnun (Rajasthan) Acharya Mahapragya ~ 4 ~ Editorial odern society is facing unending mental, physical, and Memotional stresses as a result of overwhelming want for material wealth. The question arises as to how one can achieve tranquility and peace of mind? The most common and popular ways to reduce these stresses include, going out on holidays or putting oneself under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. Since, these methods provide only short-term relief being transitory in nature, and are often harmful or illegal. They cannot prove successful in long run. In addition, these methods cannot be applied to overcome other problems such as lack of concentration, forgetfulness, and absent-mindedness. Similarly, these ways cannot bring about a transition in the personality and fail to impart true inner peace. As a result, we continue to bear the wrath of a stressful mind in every sphere of our life. We compromise our happiness, progress, success, and even physical and ecological well-being. Under such a scenario, it is essential for us to realize the need for transformation in our attitudes and bring about a change in our traditional mind set. It is also necessary for all of us to possess and sustain an optimistic approach towards the problems of life and exhibit a pleasant countenance that can be accepted and admired by all. Although, most of us long for a calm and compassionate character, we hardly know the process to achieve it. ~ 5 ~ The question that comes to our mind is whether meditation comes to our rescue? Can it offer solutions to our problems? The answer is certainly ‘YES’. Meditation is the need of the hour whose applicability is not at all limited and influenced by age, caste, gender, profession, religion or any other external factors. It can be practiced by one and all, irrespective of the nature and magnitude of their problems. Meditation can be as helpful and relevant to a 90-year- old person as to a 9-year old child. The applicability of meditation is not restricted to ascetics and nuns only. Students, professionals, businessman, housewives, even retires, and all those who want to lead a peaceful and healthy life can practice it. It is this broad applicability and usefulness of meditation that has inspired me to write ‘An Introduction to Preksha Meditation’. I assume, it will serve as an attempt of utmost responsibility, sincere desire, and honest effort in the service to the modern society, especially when the young generation is oriented more towards physical appearance and fitness rather caring for their mental health and peace. ‘An Introduction to Preksha Meditation’ is my third creation in the series subsequent to ‘An Introduction to Jainism’ and ‘An Introduction to Terapanth’. I believe, the readers will be benefited by this work. This book will provide only a brief introduction to a system of meditation that is very ancient and that was rediscovered in 1975 by Acharya Mahapragya being inspired by Acharya Tulsi. Readers who are interested in learning more should consult the books on Preksha Meditation written by Acharya Mahapragya that are listed in Chapter 28. These books provide more detail not only on the ~ 6 ~ theory of Preksha Meditation but also on the actual techniques that are used. In Chapters 26 and 27, the readers are provided with the information concerning Preksha Meditation camps, centers, and courses. I am extremely grateful to Acharya Mahapragya, Yuvacharya Mahashraman, and SadhviPramukha KanakPrabha for their blessings. I am especially thankful to Muni Kumar Shraman for inspiration and creative suggestions. Dr. Nirmala Bardiya helped me in editing the work. Gary provided final touch. Sadhvi Vandana Shree helped me in proof-reading. Shivani Bothra and Sanjeev Bothra have worked out the creative inputs. I hope the readers and practitioners of Preksha Meditation will evaluate it. Sadhvi VishrutVibha ~ 7 ~ Index Chapter Page 1. Significance of Preksha Meditation ............................ 10 2. History of Preksha Meditation ................................... 13 3. Basic Principles of Preksha Meditation ...................... 16 4. Upsampada (Guiding Principles of Preksha Meditation) .............. 19 5. Arham (Mantra) ......................................................... 24 6. Kayotsarg (Relaxation)................................................ 26 7. Antaryatra (Internal Trip)........................................... 30 8. Shvas Preksha (Perception of Breathing) .................... 34 9. Samvriti Shvas Preksha (Perception of Alternate Breathing)............................ 39 10. Sharir Preksha (Perception of Body) .......................... 42 11. Chaitanya Kendra Preksha (Perception of Psychic Centers) ................................. 45 12. Leshya Dhyan (Perception of Colors) ........................ 50 13. Anupreksha (Contemplation) ..................................... 55 14. Mantra Meditation ..................................................... 59 ~ 8 ~ Chapter Page 15. Yogasana (Yogic Exercises) .......................................... 62 16. Pranayam (Breathing Exercises) .................................. 66 17. Mudra (Body Posture and Position of Hands) .......... 69 18. Dhvani (Sound).......................................................... 71 19. Vartamaan Kshan ki Preksha (Perception of the Present Moment) .......................... 73 20. Vichaar Preksha (Perception of Thought) .................. 75 21. Animesh Preksha (to Concentrate One’s Mind at One Point with Open Eyes) ... 76 22. Sutra (Aphorism) ........................................................ 77 23. Mangal Bhaavana (Auspicious Aspiration) ................. 80 24. Anand Bhaavana (Reiteration of Bliss) ...................... 82 25. Preksha Song .............................................................. 85 26. Preksha Meditation Camps and Workshops .............. 86 27. Meditation Centers..................................................... 89 28. Literature on Preksha Meditation .............................. 92 29. Experiences of Preksha Meditation Participants......... 94 ~ 9 ~ 1 Significance of Preksha Meditation reksha Meditation is not just for achieving physical, mental, Pand emotional well-being but a key to spiritual treasure trove. Today, eminent doctors, specialists, and general practitioners have agreed that mediation is a powerful complementary therapy. Meditation can help us in healing and sustenance of good health. It can cure and even protect us from several psychosomatic disorders that result from mental stress and tension. Preksha Meditation is a technique of meditation that aims at bringing about positive attitudinal and behavioural changes through overall transformation in the personality. Although, the technique of Preksha Meditation is derived from the wisdom of ancient philosophy, it is authentically based on current scientific principles. The main purpose of the Preksha Meditation is to purify the mental state. A human mind is constantly exposed to contaminating urges, emotions, and passions. Therefore, it is essential to remove these obstacles. Peace of
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