Samadhi – How to Complete Stilling the Mind

Samadhi, the pinnacle of the Ashtanga Yoga journey, represents the culmination of inner exploration and spiritual realization. Let us delve into the essence of this profound state:

Definition and Purpose
Samadhi refers to the complete stilling of the mind, allowing the practitioner to merge with the cosmic consciousness.
It transcends ordinary awareness, leading to a direct experience of unity with the divine or universal energy.

Stages of Samadhi
Lower Samadhi (Samprajñata Samadhi): In this stage, the meditator experiences higher knowledge. The mind remains engaged with the chosen object of meditation. These experiences are often influenced by personal and cultural elements.
Higher Samadhi (Asamprajñata Samadhi): Here, the mind transcends all specific objects. Universal elements emerge, and the meditator experiences a profound sense of oneness. This stage is less influenced by individual factors.

Yogic Realization
The yogi becomes detached from material concerns, focusing solely on the merging of consciousness with a greater spiritual power.
Samadhi is not an escape from life but a deep immersion into the essence of existence.

In the practice of Ashtanga Yoga, samadhi serves as the gateway to self-realization, where the seeker dissolves into the boundless ocean of consciousness.