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Sadhana (Spiritual Practices)

Sadhana, a Sanskrit word denoting "spiritual effort," is an all-inclusive term used for all techniques, instructions and observances and performance thereof that help one along the path to Eternal Bliss. The goal of spiritual practices is the all-round elevation of the human being. Spiritual practices teach the proper utilization of the subtle and crude resources. They do not teach escape from the world. Just as it is necessary to mind a suitable process in the social and economic spheres, one should also follow a certain system to help oneself on the path of progress in physical and psychic spheres. Advaita Tantra Yoga tradition follows closely the Eight-Limb Yoga system expounded by Maharshi Patanjali over two thousand years ago.

1 & 2 Yama and Niyama Sadhana

Yama and Niyama Sadhana teaches us how to deal properly with the world. The potential of ideal humanity is inherent in understanding and observing these principles. Those who are well-experienced in this Sadhana will have attained emancipation from the Six Adversaries and Eight Fetters (spiritual traps inherent in individuality). However, one should keep in mind that overcoming these spiritual pitfalls is not the same as shunning them. In every day life one comes in contact with situations that are spiritually dangerous; one should not slip under their control, rather, these situations should be under one's control. Special instructions for the observance of Yama and Niyama Sadhana are available from Anatole.

3 Asana

A posture in which one can remain conveniently, without becoming restless is called asana. Asanas free the glandular system of the body of its maladies and thus help the mind to attain competence for spiritual practice. It is improper to practice Asanas without the permission and guidance from Anatole.

4 Pranayama

Breathing and mental states are related: unsteadiness of respiration is the unsteadiness of mind, and vice versa. When respiration is being controlled methodically with the help of certain breathing techniques, quality of meditation practice greatly improves. If one does not practice Pranayama, the practice of merger in the Cosmic Self (Dhyana) is slowed down. Pranayama must be learned and practiced under guidance from Anatole, or it may lead to serious difficulties.

5, 6 & 7 Pratyahara, Dharana & Dhyana

The term pratyahara literally means 'withdrawal' - drawing back the mind whenever it gets charmed by particular object. The word dharana means fixing the mind on the spiritual goal. The word dhyana means continuous meditative flow towards one's spiritual goal, with all tendencies of one's mind fixed on this goal. Anatole will teach specific processes of these involved spiritual practices to suitable persons.

8 Samadhi

Following the successful conclusion of the process of Dhyana, the state will be reached when the tendencies of one's mind get completely suspended on the spiritual goal in the absorption state called Samadhi. The person attains mystical unity with the Supreme Being Who reveals to him or her all secrets the Universe has to offer.