Dharana, a Sanskrit term meaning concentration, is a fundamental practice in yoga that focuses the mind on a single object. It is the sixth limb of Patanjali's eight-limbed yoga system, known as Ashtanga Yoga or Raja Yoga. This practice is essential for achieving deeper states of meditation and ultimately, spiritual enlightenment. By directing and maintaining the mind's attention to a specific location in the body, practitioners can cultivate a sense
of inner peace and clarity.
The Role of Dharana in Yoga
Dharana is a crucial step in the progression of yoga practices as outlined by Patanjali. It follows the limb of Pratyahara, which involves withdrawing the senses from external stimuli. Once the senses are withdrawn, Dharana allows the practitioner to focus the mind on a single point, such as the navel or the heart. This concentration is not just about focusing on an object but maintaining a steady and unwavering attention. The practice of Dharana is often seen as the bridge between the physical and the spiritual aspects of yoga, preparing the mind for deeper meditation.
The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali describe Dharana as the fixing of the mind in one place. This definition highlights the importance of mental discipline and the ability to hold the mind steady. In the commentarial tradition, Dharana is interpreted as holding or holding steady, emphasizing the need for single-pointed focus. This practice is essential for achieving the subsequent limbs of Dhyana (meditation) and Samadhi (absorption), which together are known as Samyama.
Etymology and Interpretation
The term Dharana is derived from the Sanskrit roots 'dha' and 'ana', which mean to hold, carry, and maintain. It is translated as firmness, steadfastness, and certainty, reflecting the mental resolve required to practice this limb of yoga. The act of holding or bearing the mind's attention is central to Dharana, and it is often associated with the retention of breath, which aids in concentration.
In the Yogabhashya, a commentary on the Yoga Sutras, focal points for Dharana are suggested, such as the navel or the heart. Later commentators have expanded on this by incorporating theistic meditation, particularly visualizing forms of deities like Vishnu. This approach underscores the versatility of Dharana, allowing practitioners to tailor their focus according to their spiritual beliefs and practices.
Practicing Dharana
The practice of Dharana involves continuous, uninterrupted lucid awareness, known as ekagrata or ekagra chitta. This single-pointed concentration is akin to Samatha, a form of meditation that emphasizes calmness and focus. Gregor Maehle describes Dharana as the mind thinking about one object while avoiding other thoughts, with awareness of the object still being interrupted.
The progression from Dharana to Dhyana and Samadhi is gradual, with each stage representing a deeper level of concentration and uninterruptedness. Practitioners often find that as they develop their ability to concentrate, they experience greater clarity and insight, paving the way for spiritual growth and enlightenment.
