If you wanted to gain useful insights on the concept of Siddha yoga, you have come to the right place. In this article, you will find a detailed explanation of Siddha yoga and everything related to it. Do not skip any part of this article and make sure to read till the end so that you get a complete idea of this spiritual tradition which is getting popular day by day all over the world.
What is Siddha Yoga?
Siddha yoga, in simple terms, is a form of yoga where the practitioner seeks to become perfect at performing yogic poses and eventually become capable of attaining enlightenment. The tradition of Siddha yoga was brought into existence by spiritual guru, Muktananda. Currently, it is promoted by Gurumayi Chidvilasananda.
What is the objective of Siddha yoga?
The primary objective of Siddha yoga is to awaken a practitioner’s inner strength and bring it to the forefront. There is a process to do this. It is known as shaktipat-diksha. With this process, practitioners obtain a higher level of self-realization and gain immense knowledge about themselves.
Earlier, self-realization and inner awakening were possible with years of practice and a deep desire for understanding the essence of spirituality. However, with Siddha yoga, new practitioners can have the advantage of experiencing awakening sooner. This is one of the best things about this practice.
Principles of Siddha Yoga
Siddha yoga consists of five major principles which include meditation, chanting, selfless service, Dakshina, and preaching. Let’s get to know about them one by one.
1. Meditation
One who practices Siddha yoga has to primarily focus on meditation. During the course of practice, mantras are used to train the yogis to improve their focus.
2. Selfless service
When a practitioner seeks enlightenment, he/she has to walk down the path of service. The act of performing selfless service makes the practitioner ready for self-awakening
3. Dakshina
Gratitude towards guru is another important principle that has to be mastered to become a Siddha yogi. To do this, practitioners gift their guru something or other as a token of gratitude which is known as “Dakshina”.
4. Preaching
Spreading awareness is an important part of the practice of Siddha yoga. Gatherings should be held from time to time to preach the art of meditation and impart spiritual teachings.
Benefits of Siddha Yoga
Siddha yoga comes with many positive advantages, especially when it comes to mental health.
One of the best things about Siddha yoga is that it immensely improves the mental health of practitioners. There are many other benefits associated with this practice. Take a look at these below:
- It makes you more self-aware.
- It helps you look at life in a positive way.
- It helps in improving focus.
- It makes you generally happier.
- It decreases stress levels and helps you overcome anxiety.
- It brings relief to pain caused by chronic diseases.
Stages of Siddha Yoga
Here are the different stages of Siddha yoga along with the methods of performing them:
1. Arambha-Avastha
In this stage, focus is given on exercises and movements to circulate Kundalini energy throughout the body. Specific asanas and pranayamas are used to increase the flow of Kuldalkini shakti in the body.
2. Ghata Avastha
This is the stage where the practitioner learns to give up worldly desires. At this stage, energy starts flowing all over the yogi’s body and there can be visualizations of the state of divine power.
3. Parichaya Avastha
This is a crucial stage in the process of Siddha yoga. At this stage, the energy within the yogi moves to the Sahasrara Chakra which exists in the center of the brain. There is a merge of energies at this stage and the yogi experiences self-realization.
4. Nishpatti Avastha
This is the stage where the Siddha yoga practitioner gets into a blissful state. This is the final stage in the process and this is when he/she gets to experience self-realization in its truest sense.
Conclusion
With the practice of Siddha yoga, you will be able to live your life with a positive outlook and spread happiness all around you. This is the ultimate goal of this spiritual practice.
