Meditation Techniques by Paramahansa Yogananda

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Today, we’re diving into the exploration of meditation techniques on God through the lens of Paramahansa Yogananda’s scientific approach. Strap in, because this isn’t your typical meditation guide – it’s a journey to understanding how science and spirituality can beautifully intertwine and converge.

Picture this: You’re sitting cross-legged, surrounded by a serene landscape. Your eyes are closed and the world around you seems to fade into a distant hum. You’re not just simply meditating; you’re meditating on God.



But wait, there’s more to it than meets the eye… Enter Paramahansa Yogananda, the yogi and spiritual guru who brought ancient wisdom from the East into the modern Western world – with a dash of scientific flair.

Who Was Paramahansa Yogananda?

First things first, let’s get to know the man behind the method. Paramahansa Yogananda was born in 1893 in India and, at a young age, felt a deep calling to explore the realms of spirituality. He traveled to the West in the 1920s and quickly became a renowned figure in the field of yoga and meditation. His magnum opus, “Autobiography of a Yogi,” continues to inspire seekers worldwide today.

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Click here to read more about Paramahansa Yogananda’s, “Autobiography of a Yogi”

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Yogananda believed in the unity of science and spirituality, bridging the gap between the two seemingly distinct realms. He approached meditation with the precision of a scientist, blending ancient wisdom with modern understanding. His method of meditation on God is a testament to this beautiful fusion.

The Science Behind Yogananda’s Meditation Techniques

Now, let’s get to the nitty-gritty of Yogananda’s scientific approach to transcendental meditation on God. It all starts with understanding the human mind and its connection to the Divine.

1. The Power of Stillness

Meditation, as Yogananda teaches, is about finding stillness within ourselves. It’s like tuning in to a radio station – to receive the Divine signal, you need to minimize the static. This stillness allows us to tap into our inner reservoir of peace and connect to the Divine within.

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In scientific terms, this stillness corresponds to a state of focused attention much like the state achieved during deep concentration or “flow.” During meditation, the brain’s prefrontal cortex – responsible for rational thinking – quiets down, allowing us to access deeper layers of consciousness.

2. The Role of Breath

Yogananda placed significant emphasis on the breath as a bridge to the Divine. He believed that by controlling our breath, we could influence our state of consciousness and bring ourselves closer to union with God.

The science here is crystal clear. Deep, controlled breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. It’s not just a spiritual practice; it’s a physiological response that calms the body and mind, making it easier to transcend one’s consciousness to a higher realm.

3. Visualization and Affirmation

In Yogananda’s method, visualization and affirmation play a pivotal role. By visualizing a Divine form while repeating scripture verses or prayer affirmations, we create a powerful anchor and focused direction for our mind. This anchor keeps our wandering thoughts in check and turns our attention inward to God.

Science tells us that visualization and positive affirmations can reshape neural pathways and influence our perception of reality. When we repeatedly visualize and affirm our connection with God, we’re rewiring our brain to perceive and experience that connection more profoundly.

The Practice of Yogananda’s Meditation Techniques

Now that we’ve peeked behind the curtains of the science, let’s dive into the practical aspects of Yogananda’s meditation on God. It’s like preparing your favorite recipe – a dash of science, a pinch of spirituality, and a lot of heart.

1. Find Your Sacred Space

Start by choosing a serene and quiet space for your meditation. It could be a corner of your room, a peaceful garden, or even your favorite park. Yogananda believed that your environment should reflect the tranquility you seek within.

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2. Assume a Comfortable Posture

Begin by sitting comfortably with your back straight, either on a chair or on the floor. The key here is to be relaxed yet alert. Cross-legged or not, find a posture that works for you with your spine held upright, shoulders slightly back, and your chin parallel to the floor.

3. Focus on the Breath

Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Feel the sensation of the breath as it enters and exits your nose. Let go of any tension with each exhalation.

4. Visualize and Affirm

Here’s where Yogananda’s method truly shines. Visualize a form of the divine – Jesus Christ, God the Father, or Holy Mother, or imagine another aspect of God such as Joy, Love, Wisdom, Peace, Bliss, etc. As you visualize, repeat affirmations such as “I and My Father are one“ or “I am filled with divine love and light.”

5. Maintain Stillness

As you dive deeper into these meditation techniques, be sure to maintain stillness and focus. Do not be discouraged when the mind naturally begins to wander. This is a normal aspect of your meditation journey. The key here is to continuously redirect your focus back upon the place between your eyebrows; the seat of the spiritual eye and divine perception.

6. Experience the Divine

With practice, you’ll start to experience a growing sense of connection with the Divine. It may be subtle at first, like a gentle breeze brushing over your soul. Over time, this connection will grow stronger and more profound, filling your entire being with His Unconditional Love, Ever-lasting Joy, and Infinite Peace.

Philippians 4:7 (NIV)
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.“

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The Benefits of Yogananda’s Meditation Techniques

Meditating on God, Yogananda-style, isn’t just a spiritual practice – it’s a life-transforming journey with a treasure trove of benefits!

1. Inner Peace

Yogananda’s method allows you to tap into a wellspring of inner peace. In our hectic world, this inner sanctuary becomes a refuge, a place to recharge and find solace.

2. Stress Reduction

The scientific underpinnings of deep breathing and stillness during meditation work wonders for stress reduction. As you learn to navigate life’s challenges with a calm mind, you’ll find yourself less affected by stressors.

3. Spiritual Growth

This method is a pathway to spiritual growth and self-realization. Through consistent practice, you’ll experience a deeper connection with the Divine and a heightened sense of purpose in life.

4. Improved Focus

The combination of visualization and affirmation hones your ability to focus, not just during meditation but in your daily tasks as well. You’ll find yourself more present and attentive in all that you do.

In Conclusion

Paramahansa Yogananda’s scientific method of meditation on God is a unique blend of spirituality and modern understanding. It offers us a practical and tangible way to connect with the Divine while reaping the benefits of a calmer mind and a more profound sense of purpose.

So, whether you’re a seasoned meditator or just dipping your toes into the world of spirituality, give Yogananda’s method a try. Find your sacred space, assume a comfortable posture, and let the magic of stillness, breath, visualization, and affirmation guide you on a transformative journey toward our One Creator ➺ God.

Remember, meditation isn’t a destination; it’s a lifelong adventure. Embrace it with an open heart and an inquisitive mind and you may just discover the profound beauty of science and spirituality coming together in perfect harmony!

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✨Happy Meditating!✨