MIND MYSTERIES & CONTROL - 33. EXPERIENCES & OBSTACLES IN MEDITATION - Sri Swami Sivananda - The Mind: Its Mysteries and Control

THE MIND: ITS MYSTERIES & CONTROL - 33. EXPERIENCES & OBSTACLES IN MEDITATION - Sri Swami Sivananda - The Mind: Its Mysteries and Control -- HQ Full Book.

What Happens During Meditation
In meditation, the mind undergoes profound transformation, forming new grooves in the brain that direct it towards spiritual realms. As the mind becomes steady, the physical body also reflects this stability: the eyeballs remain motionless, and the breath slows considerably. A Yogi with a calm mind exhibits a steady gaze, and their eyes shine with purity, often appearing lustrous, red, or white. In deep meditation, the breath ceases to flow noticeably from the nostrils, with only subtle movements in the lungs and abdomen. This reduction in breath corresponds to the degree of mental concentration, gradually diminishing from its usual rhythm to a state of near stillness. Meditation enables the grasp of the abstract, which arises through spiritual purification and sustained contemplation of the Brahman, the Supreme Cosmic Spirit. Initially, abstract forms or images may manifest in the purified mind. These forms later dissolve into deeper states of meditation, leaving only pure consciousness or existence. As one advances, even the thought “I am Brahman” fades, culminating in absolute absorption and a natural steadiness in non-duality. Just as salt dissolves in water, the purified mind merges silently into the Brahman, embodying peace and divine blessings. 

Experiences in Meditation
Meditative experiences differ widely among individuals, shaped by temperament, spiritual practice, and focus. Some may hear melodious sounds or perceive lights, while others experience profound spiritual bliss or a combination of illumination and joy. Certain aspirants feel sensations of rising or flying during meditation. 

Lights
The Divine Light manifests uniquely for each seeker. It may appear as a ray penetrating narrow slits, akin to sunlight streaming into a dark room. This sudden illumination overwhelms the senses, evoking awe and ecstasy. The brightness may dazzle and bewilder, similar to Arjuna’s vision of Lord Krishna’s universal form in the Bhagavad Gita. The colors of these lights can vary depending on the prevailing elemental essence:

• Fire Element: Red lights
• Ether Element: Blue lights
• Water Element: White lights
• Earth Element: Yellow lights
• Wind Element: Black lights

Through focused thought, one can influence these essences. By consciously shifting mental focus, the aspirant can transform the flow of one element into another.

Rapture
Meditative ecstasy manifests in five forms:

1. Lesser Thrill: Produces goosebumps.
2. Momentary Rapture: Resembles fleeting lightning flashes.
3. Flooding Rapture: Descends rapidly like waves.
4. Transporting Rapture: Lifts the body, evoking sensations of levitation.
5. All-Pervading Rapture: Fully saturates the body, creating an experience of boundless expansion.

Crossing the Body-Consciousness
Many aspirants face fear upon transcending body-consciousness. This apprehension arises from the sudden loss of familiar physical limitations, leaving one feeling ungrounded. However, courage is essential in overcoming these fears. Ancient scriptures affirm that the Atman (Self) cannot be realized by the timid. Fearless perseverance allows the aspirant to navigate novel experiences and challenges. Historical examples like the transformation of dacoit Ratnakara into Sage Valmiki illustrate the power of divine love and courage in spiritual evolution. 

Visions of Spirits
During meditation, encounters with spirits or visions can occur. Some spirits may appear menacing, but they are harmless to the sincere seeker....