Meditation & Its Practices: A Definitive Guide to Techniques and Traditions of Meditation in Yoga and Vedanta

by Adiswarananda

The complete sourcebook for exploring Hinduism's two
most time-honored traditions of meditation.
Meditation is a subject of universal interest, practiced by seekers of all traditions on the quest for serenity, peace, and blessedness. Among the many traditions of meditation in Hinduism, Yoga and Vedanta have passed the test of time, proving as vital today as they were throughout the ages in helping seekers overcome the maladies of life and attain the greatest spiritual fulfillment.
In one comprehensive volume, Meditation & Its Practices illuminates the principles of the Yoga and Vedanta meditation traditions, the meaning of meditation, its goal of Self-Knowledge, the methods by which concentration is developed, and the ways of achieving self-control. Defining key concepts in clear terms, this complete guidebook covers every aspect of this ancient spiritual practice, including:
• Goals and Benefits of Meditation
• Objects of Meditation
• Methods of Concentration
• Posture, Physical Condition, Eating Habits, and Spiritual Exercises
• Mystical Experiences and Realizations
• Obstacles in Meditation and Ways of Overcoming Them
Drawing on both classic and contemporary sources, this comprehensive sourcebook outlines the scientific, psychological, and spiritual elements of Yoga and Vedanta meditation, the results of which lead not to the seeker's dreams and visions but to the transformation of his or her character.

Swami Adiswarananda (1925–2007), former senior monk of the Ramakrishna Order of India, was Minister and Spiritual Leader of the Ramakrishna-Vivekananda Center of New York.

Genres: Meditation, Religion, Spirituality, Philosophy

508 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 1, 2003

Reviews

[Brienne E. · Rating 2 out of 5]

Overall this book is a good read to learn about meditation and its traditions. I read this as part of my meditation facilitator training course and it was very informative. However, I disagree with the gender segregation. As a woman it is discouraging to be recommended a book (course material) and turn to a chapter that discribe how women, as a sex, cannot meditate or become enlightened. Read this book with an open mind, it is one group's opinion based on their understand of teachings. Take from it what resonates with you, acknowledge the rest, and move on.

[Abhi Yerra · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book took me a while to get through. It covers the meditation techniques for Vedanta with the foundation being the Yoga Sutras. It covered the different traditions as well as the detailed expectations of each type of meditation. For example I didn’t expect there to be such a long chapter on meditating on Om.

Overall really gets to the different ways to meditate and the different methods to use. But the end assumption I got, and it seems is part of the Vedanta tradition, is that you pick a method and that is what you end up practicing for the rest of your body’s lifetime. In that regard it is a good book to understand what the different meditation methods are. It is a great guidebook.

One critique I have of the book is that it does seem to be made to not be read fully, with the expectation you read about the meditation technique your guru assigns you, and in that regard a lot of the quotes do get repeated.

Overall a good book for an intermediate practitioner who understands the philosophy and terminology of Vedanta. I wouldn’t say this book is for a beginner.

[Manjunath nemani · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was more of an anthology than a definitive guide. but it contained satisfactory content with regard to how to meditate but nevertheless one needs a mentor or an instructor if one is a beginner in meditation. I hoped it would be a How to guide for those starting to meditate.

[Abhijeet Parihar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Its a well researched book and very technical as well.
FYI, I didn't read it cover to cover but I think it will be beneficial for someone who wants to read the science behind every meditation technique.

[Ryan Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Was a good book because it taught me how to use meditation in life.

[Pratap · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second Reading: If you want to have in-depth knowledge of meditation @ Hindu perspective this is the book you should read. An extensive collection.....I read it 2nd time, and I know I need to read it again to absorb the knowledge explained.....Need to read it 10 pages a day, to understand well. (changed the rating from 4 to 5)

First Reading: Complete book on Meditation in Hinduism. Collected all sorts of references on meditation from Hindu scriptures. A very good reference book on meditation. The depth varies from beginner to advanced level.

[Anamika · Rating 5 out of 5]

this book is detailed guide to meditaio and its practices in yoga and vedant

[Fei2-Qiuhotmail.Com · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good