DR. BHARAT S. THAKKAR

Meditation A Journey of Exploration

Swami Tadatmananda is a disciple of the world-renowned teacher of Vedanta, Swami Dayanand Saraswati. Analyzing the concept and practice of meditation, Swami Tadatmananda has eloquently described what is and what is not meditation. Quoting references from Hindu scriptures, his research shows that the origin of meditation is over 3000 years old and was explored by Indian sages and saints to answer basic questions, such as: Who am I? What is the universe? Who created it? The book is based upon Vedantic and yogic wisdom that develops into a practice of meditation. It will not be an overstatement if one refers to the book as the Science of Meditation.

The author is well aware of how difficult it is to meditate and thus he facilitates aspiring learners with step-by-step preliminary processes required for meditation, such as how to sit (posture), how to pull away from worldly matters (affirmation), and how to release tension (progressive relaxation) in concert with creating an appropriate environment. The goal of meditation is experiencing personal inner peace by good concentration, observation, contemplation, and devotion. This requires the aspirant to stay in the present moment by paying close attention to breathing, exhaling, and consciously observing the effects of meditation. Throughout the book there are boxed exercises for practicing good meditation and experiencing positive outcome.

What’s Your Dharma? Discover the Vedic Way to Your Life’s Purpose

Lissa Coffey has outlined how to fulfill life’s purpose in her book, “What’s Your Dharma?” The thoughts in this book are based upon Hindu scriptures where one of the meanings of the word Dharma is “purpose” in life. There are four specific goals in human life: Kama (Pleasure), Artha (Prosperity), Dharma (Purpose), Moksha (Liberation). The author theorizes that humans should try to learn and grow spiritually to achieve and fulfill these goals. As humans we are all connected, we are here to help each other to learn and grow, that is the law of relationship.

How do we achieve goals and growth needed for healthy relationships? Based upon Vedantic philosophy of “oneness,” where all beings are one with Divine energy, the author suggests four specific yogic paths. They are: Bhakti Yoga (Love and Devotion), Karma Yoga (Work and Service), Jnana Yoga (Knowledge and Wisdom), Raja Yoga (Meditation).

The book begins with an interesting multiple choice diagnostic quiz on your Dharma. The results of the quiz can allow one to choose specific yoga for one’s particular nature and temperament.