July 13, 2010
Wisdom from Ayurveda and the Mind on Meditation
Anyone looking for practical psychological applications of Ayurveda and a better understanding of what we call “meditation,” should read David Frawley’s Ayurveda and the Mind. The book, which reads like a textbook, can by dry at times. But making sure you’ve digested parts one and two (like vegetables) will make the rest of the book come to life (like dessert).One of the foremost scholars of Ayurveda, Dr. Frawley clearly explains doshas, gunas, elements, bodies (Chitta, Buddhi, Manas, etc.), and other Ayurvedic concepts in the context of mental-health treatment options. He surveys tools like herbs, color therapy, yoga, mantra repetition, and meditaton practices. If you want to learn how to use them better, you will need to look beyond the book though.
As a yoga teacher and practitioner, I had an “aha” moment when reading Dr. Frawley’s explanations of Pratyahara (withdrawal from the senses), Dharana (concentration), and Dhyana (meditation). They are the fifth, sixth, and seventh limbs of yoga. While learning about the eight limbs of yoga (read Yoga Journal‘s definitions), I could never remember them properly because I really didn’t grasp the difference among them.
Dr. Frawley states in his book, “Much of what is called meditation today is more properly Pratyahara (like visualization) or Dharana (concentration)…such basic forms of meditation like mantra or concentration exercises are useful in psychological problems because anyone can do them. The higher forms of meditation are only possible for those who have already gone beyond ordinary human problems and attachments, which is not easy in this hectic modern world.”
So don’t give up if you’re having a hard time with “meditation.” Consistently doing asana (physical postures) and mindfulness techniques is the work and joy in itself. Practicing doesn’t make perfect. It is perfect.
(Image courtesy of American Institute of Vedic Studies)
