Yoga Practice Name
Dhyana (ध्यान)
- Bookmark
- Leave a review
- Share
- Report
- prev
- next
English Name
Meditation
Description and Steps
| Name and Sanskrit Spelling | The Sanskrit name is ध्यान, transliterated as "Dhyāna," and pronounced "dhyaa-nuh." |
| Literal Meaning | Dhyāna means meditation or contemplation. It is derived from the root “dhyai” meaning to think of, to contemplate, or to meditate. It refers to a continuous and uninterrupted flow of concentration on a chosen object. |
| Definition in Yoga | Dhyāna is the seventh limb of Patanjali’s Ashtanga Yoga. It is a state of sustained awareness where the practitioner maintains an effortless, steady stream of focus on a single object, beyond effortful concentration (Dhāraṇā). |
| Scriptural Reference | Yoga Sutra 3.2: Tatra pratyaya ekatānatā dhyānam – “Meditation is the uninterrupted flow of the mind toward the object.” |
| Philosophical Significance | Dhyāna represents the stage where the mind becomes deeply absorbed in the object of meditation, without distraction or wavering. It leads the practitioner into deeper realms of consciousness, paving the way for Samādhi. It is an essential tool for inner transformation and spiritual realization. |
| Symbolism | Often symbolized by the tranquil lake or the still flame—reflecting the mind’s undisturbed state. It also symbolizes deep absorption and communion. |
| Psychological/Emotional Themes | Inner peace, stillness, present-moment awareness, devotion, subtle awareness, and intuitive clarity. It reflects a deep internal alignment and calm observation. |
| Signs of Development | Sense of timelessness, decreased mental chatter, emotional equanimity, spontaneous insight, and a subtle shift from doing to being. A deepening sense of inner fulfillment and presence. |
| Common Misunderstandings | Dhyāna is often mistaken for passive relaxation or guided visualization. True Dhyāna is active awareness without mental effort, a state of spontaneous steadiness of mind—not sleep, imagination, or trance. |
| Practices to Cultivate It | - Sitting meditation (breath, mantra, form, or formless)- Loving-kindness (Metta) meditation- Silent observation (vipassana)- Long periods of mindful stillness after Dhāraṇā- Meditation on a divine form or presence- Consistent and regular practice of seated meditation over time |
| Reflective Prompts / Inner Inquiry | - “When do I feel deeply still and undistracted?”- “What helps me dissolve effort and settle into presence?”- “Can I allow thoughts to arise and pass without clinging or resisting?” |
| Real-Life Examples or Modern Context | In life, Dhyāna manifests as full presence—during a silent walk, in heartfelt prayer, deep artistic flow, or being fully present with another person. While formal meditation is the method, the meditative mind also integrates into daily life as equanimity, awareness, and compassion. It helps one become the observer of life, not merely a reactor. |
