What is the purpose of the Akasha samyama?

Not sure I get it. Is it to feel “light”? Hop around the floor? Levitate? What? :blush:

I know what you mean. It’s been a mystery to me as well. Then during one meditation a while back, I felt weightless, “light as air”, which is I think the rough translation. So now when I get to Akasha, I use that as a reference point. Maybe try associating it with not having a body to pull you down.

Hi LT and Meg,
According to Yogani’s book on Samyama, Akasha translates into “inner-space” and by adding lightness of air to the sutra we will come to know ourselves as nothingness and feel very “spacious and light”.

OK, That’s, well, slightly more informative. :blush:
Thanks guys.

Yes, I believe part of the path of enlightenment is realizing that you are not the body, but instead you are immortal and free of the material world.

Do not localize a ‘me’.
Just the first thought that pops into my mind, since you seem to want to explore the idea.
I am new to the practice of samyama, but I have been doing deep meditation for about four years. As I turn inward I dissolve into the instrument that connects me to all things. Being nothing in particular, allowing the mind’s filters to relax and cease.
If you watch a break dancing video on youtube, you can see what the ‘zone’ or state of mind can do with the body. Don’t picture an old man with a beard hopping around, go on google video and watch some of these individuals who break dance for a living. Interesting to observe.
The most amazing things that human beings do come about by concentration. You see or be through the body, not just as a body.

Thanks for the replies. I have another question. Is it OK to do samyama on “ordinary” things? Such as everyday concerns and problems?

Yes.
Just keep them simple and once you pick the word/words drop it into silence and let it go… don’t dwell on it. Be ready to accept whatever form your prayer is answered in.
BTW this is not very easy to do unless you have some resident inner silence… so be kind to yourself and continue with your practice and this will come more and more naturally to you.
PS: This thread may give you a better idea.
http://www.aypsite.org/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=2770

Thanks for the replies everyone. :slight_smile: