Ambhasi Dharana is one of the five dharanas (concentrative techniques) known collectively as the 'pancha dharanas' in the practice of Hatha Yoga. These dharanas are designed to help practitioners conquer the mind, leading to spiritual realization and self-awareness. In addition, practitioners may also attain certain supernormal powers through diligent practice.
Concept and Symbolism
Ambhasi Dharana involves fixing the mind on the principle of ambhas, which means water. In Hindu philosophy, the water principle is associated with purity, fluidity, and the potential for deep introspection. It is visualized as having the following characteristics:
- Color and Form: The water principle is white, reminiscent of the kunda flower (jasmine), a conch, or the moon, symbolizing purity and calmness.
- Shape: It is circular, representing completeness and the cyclical nature of existence.
- Presiding Deity: Vishnu, the preserver among the Hindu trinity (Trimurti), is the deity associated with this dharana, embodying sustenance and protection.
- Seed Letter: The bija (seed letter) for this dharana is 'va,' which serves as a focal point for meditation and aligns the practitioner with the vibrational energy of the water element.
Practice and Technique
Practicing Ambhasi Dharana involves a combination of mental focus and breath control (pranayama), particularly through a technique called kumbhaka, which involves retaining the breath. Here is a step-by-step outline of the practice:
- Preparation: The practitioner sits in a comfortable meditative posture, ensuring a calm and quiet environment to facilitate deep concentration.
- Visualization: The mind is focused on the water principle, visualizing its white, circular form and connecting with the energy of Vishnu.
- Breath Control: Through kumbhaka pranayama, the breath is retained after inhalation, allowing the prana (life force) to be directed towards the object of concentration.
- Duration: The practice is maintained for five ghatikas (one ghatika is approximately 24 minutes), totaling around two hours.
Benefits and Outcomes
- Mental Conquest: By fixing the mind on the water principle, practitioners can achieve mastery over their thoughts and emotions, leading to a tranquil and focused mind.
- Spiritual Realization: With sustained practice, this dharana can facilitate the realization of the Self, providing insights into the true nature of existence and the practitioner's place within it.
- Supernormal Powers: Among the siddhis (supernormal powers) that may be attained, the texts specifically mention the ability to withstand and survive underwater conditions without harm, symbolizing an advanced level of mastery over the element of water.
- Destruction of Sorrows: The practice is also said to help in overcoming all sorrows, leading to a state of inner peace and contentment.
Ambhasi Dharana is a profound practice within the framework of Hatha Yoga, emphasizing the power of concentration and breath control to transcend ordinary consciousness. By immersing themselves in the essence of the water principle, practitioners can journey towards spiritual enlightenment, mental tranquility, and the development of extraordinary abilities. This dharana, along with the other four in the pancha dharanas, provides a comprehensive approach to mastering the mind and realizing the deeper truths of existence.