I had the great honor of studying traditional pranayama, mantra and yogic practices for a week with Sudhir Tiwari of the Kaivalyadhama Yogic Research Institute in Lonavla, India.
In this yogic lineage they teach directly from the ancient yogic shastras (scripts), like Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Gherand Samhita and the Patanjali Yoga Sutras. This way of practicing has the purpose of guiding the student to the ultimate spiritual goal we can reach with yogic practices: to a stable, quiet, easeful mind (samadhi). By fine tuning our body-mind instrument we can reach emotional maturity and become an integrated person. Pranayama removes the psychological veil that covers our nature as Sat: truth, Cit: consciousness, Ananda: divine joy, one of the highest states of being.
I found the direct, pure and simple teaching methodology so restful. By not trying to constantly entertain the students mind by indulging it and the senses with new movements or fancy tricks, we reveal the disturbances of the mind that cause our restlessness and suffering. Sudhir made a point of the fact that once we have cleaned the inner mirror we have to choose to look in it! Once we do this we become aware of our consciousness that lights up all experiences, that unchanging presence that is the most intimate Self. Unmani: a state of mind unlike anything else.
What grace to live the life of a mumukshu (one who is focused on attaining liberation) where the teachers appear at the right time. The compassion they show inspire me every day.
Pranayama is a progressive practice. I now have a year to practice my personal program, given based on my Ayurvedic constitution and level of experience. Feeling inspired and humble, what immense and deep science of self discovery and inner peace yoga is. It amazes me still after so many years.
Dhanyoham – I am blessed
Shantoham – I am peace. I am silence.
Asangoham – I am unaffected – I am unattached – I am free
Purnoham – I am whole, I am secure, I am love, I am complete
Triptoham – I am fulfilled
Shuddhoham – I am pure
Acaloham – I am motionless
OM Shantih Shantih Shantih