Description
Course content:
Amrtabindu Upanishad reveals that the mind is the cause of both bondage and liberation. How can we transform our relationship with the mind such that it does not bind us but leads us to the truth? In the light of Vedanta, we move through three stages –
- First stage – My mind is a problem. I want to fix my mind.
- Second stage – My mind is an instrument, a glorious gift from Ishvara. True to its name (antah-karana-inner instrument) I use it as and when required for my different pursuits.
- Third stage – I, chaitanyam illumine my mind and do not judge myself on the basis of the conditions of my mind.
Millions have traversed the landscape of transforming their minds and living happy, purposeful lives guided by the wisdom of our revered Rishis. The course will include the understanding of the mind in the Vedic tradition, some meditation practices and an enquiry into the nature of the meditator. Drawing from the Yoga sutras, the Bhagavad Gita and the Upanishads, this course will lead the participant to have a guided, suitable and meaningful meditation practice.
Course Learning Objectives:
- Learn the purpose and practice of at least six types of meditation.
- Transform your relationship with your mind such that you use the mind effectively
- Discover a peace, cheerfulness and gratitude for your life and in your relationships
- Develop a closer relationship with Bhagavan
- Enquire into the nature of the meditator (Atma) through the varying meditation practices.
- Integrate dhyaanam into your lifestyle meaningfully
Class Structure:
There will be a minimum of 1 contact hour with one or more faculty every week. Since this is an experiential course, the class is structured such that there will be a lecture component along with different practices of meditations, discussion based on self-study and reflection each week. While the content being discussed in each class will be concluded within 60 minutes, the discussion time will be free format, and can continue for an additional 30 minutes maximum. During the course, students will be required to share their reflections and write a short essay. This need not be an academic quality paper – but should be based on students’ self-reflection on what they have learnt and assimilated so far. The significance of the course is on learning and integrating Dhyaanam into one’s lifestyle while being centred in the battlefield of life.
Required / Core: Core
Area of Study: Hindu Studies Foundation
Prerequisites: Admission into program of study.
Faculty / Instructor: Swamini Brahmaprajnananda Saraswati
Start Date: July 17, 2022
End Date: September 25, 2022
Day: Every Sunday
Time: 11:00 am EST – 12:30 pm EST
Quarter Offered: Summer 2022
