An Introduction to Preksha Meditation: [03] Basic Principles of Preksha Meditation

Basic principle

Since perception is the key to this meditation technique, it is known as Preksha Meditation. Preksha means to perceive and Dhyan means meditation. The word Preksha is derived from the root iksha, which means to see. When the prefix Pra is added, it becomes Pra+iksha, which now means to perceive carefully and profoundly being free from attachment and aversion. In this technique, one has to observe the internal phenomenon of the body. In the beginning a person observes the states of the gross body, then the phases of the taijas sharir, (the electrical body), followed by the vibrations in the karma sharir (the micro body). At a more advanced stage of the meditation process, the practitioner may succeed even in witnessing his past life. Thus while progressing through the gross to the subtle bodies, the art of visualizing ones own self may be acquired.

Sampikkhae Appagamappaenam this aphorism from the Jain canon Dasaveaaliyam forms the basic principle for Preksha Meditation. It means, 'See yourself through yourself.' Perceive and realize the most subtle aspects of consciousness through your own conscious mind.'

Acharya Siddhasena (6th Cent., A.D.) wrote, 'Let us observe the state of our body, perceive the form of our mind. Let us sit in meditation and observe the different states of our body.' Thousand of different kinds of changes occur in our body and to witness all these changes with inner eye is called the perception of self through self.

Basic components

In order to achieve perfection in the technique of Preksha Meditation, one has to pass through various stages. The basic components of Preksha Meditation are:

• Kayotsarg (relaxation)
• Antaryatra (internal trip)
• Shvas Preksha (perception of breathing)
• Sharir Preksha (perception of physical body)
• Chaitanya Kendra Preksha (perception of psychic centers)
• Leshya Dhyna (perception of psychic colour)
• Anupreksha (contemplation)
• Chanting of Mantras (mantra meditation)

Supporting components

1. Asana (yogic exercise)
2. Pranayam (restraining the breath)
3. Mudra (posture)
4. Dhvani (sound)

Advanced components

1. Vartamaan Kshan ki Preksha (perception of the present moment)
2. Vichaar Preksha (perception of thought)
3. Animesh Preksha, Traatak (focusing on a single point with open eyes without blinking)