The 7th limb in Patanjali's 8 limbs of yoga is Dhyana - Meditative Absorption.
Dhyana can be translated to ‘meditation’, derived from the words, dhi meaning ‘receptacle’ or ‘the mind’, Yana, meaning ‘moving’ or ‘going’. Dhyana is the deep meditative absorption of our mind. It is the connection of all previous limbs intertwined to form a deep, focused and unbroken concentration. This can be been described as a flow state, that state of mind where the energy flow is effortless and time seemingly stops, completely absorbed in the present moment. In this state there is no concept of, ‘I’m meditating right now’ rather the unforced notion of truly being present. It goes with out saying that to reach this level of meditation takes discipline and practice, but also important to note, not ‘forced discipline’. Always remembering, our yoga practice does not respond to force, rather responding to patience, time, daily practice and self care.
Dhyana, for some may not mean sitting in a traditional cross legged position with our eyes closed in meditation. Creative intuition and intelligence can be a direct path for Dhyana and deep meditation. Musicians, artists, dancers, athletes and more can all find themselves in complete meditative absorption through their practice. the same as the yogi may feel when flowing through a yoga practice. For some this may be their way of tuning inwards, being completely present and finding that flow state. Others may choose to meditate traditionally and find that this in turn deepens their creativity.
Regardless of how you choose to meditate, remember it is not wrong, it is unique to you and with daily practice, patience, time and self care your level of focused concentration will deepen.
Personally, I think this is the most beautiful thing, understanding that we are all unique, all different, with different interpretations and that is the beauty of it.
