Shoonya The Source of Existence Is The Door To Realization

Sadhguru is renowned for his profound wisdom and captivating teachings. Among the many topics he expounds, one of the most fascinating is Shoonya, a Sanskrit term often translated as “nothingness” or “emptiness.” Shoonya holds a central place in His teachings, where He underlines its significance in the journey toward self-realization and inner peace.

In Sadhguru’s view, Shoonya is not merely a philosophical concept but a state of being that can be experienced directly through dedicated practice and inner exploration. Shoonya, according to Him, does not mean an absence of everything but the presence of absolute or unbounded space. He frequently reminds us that the entire universe sprung from this space of “nothingness” and will eventually return to it. Thus, “nothingness” or Shoonya is not a void but the very source of all existence.

He elaborates further on the nature of Shoonya in relation to our human experience. Most people’s perception of life is solely based on their physical and mental faculties, which are inherently limited. This limited perception creates a sense of individuality or ego, separating us from the rest of existence. By embracing Shoonya, one dissolves these limitations, realizing the unity of all existence.

Shoonya meditation, as taught by Sadhguru, is a method to consciously negate oneself, to create a space where one’s physicality does not hinder the perception of the rest of existence. Sadhguru says, “Shoonya meditation is not an act. It is a certain quality. If you cultivate your body, mind, energies, and emotions to a certain level of maturity, Shoonya happens.”

In the state of Shoonya, there is an absence of personal boundaries and a sense of oneness with everything else. In this space, Sadhguru asserts that one can know experientially that everything in the universe is one. This knowing is the essence of yoga and the spiritual path – the realization of oneness.

Therefore, Practicing Shoonya isn’t about achieving something new but dismantling the illusion that we’re separate from the rest of the universe. It’s about returning to our original nature before identifying ourselves with our physical and mental faculties.

Preparation fo Shoonya Meditation

Before embarking on Shoonya meditation, Sadhguru advises that several preliminary steps be taken to prepare oneself physically and mentally. It ensures that the individual is ready to fully embrace and benefit from Shoonya’s practices.

Inner Engineering: Before attempting to practice Shoonya meditation, one must have completed the Inner Engineering program. This comprehensive program for personal growth brings about a shift in how one perceives and experiences life, work, and the world. It includes the Shambhavi Mahamudra, a powerful kriya (or internal energy process) that brings harmony to the body, mind, emotions, and energies.

Diet: Following the initiation into Shoonya, adherents are advised to adhere to a light and sattvic diet, consisting mostly of fruits and vegetables and other pranic foods. This is intended to make the body more receptive to the practices.

Sobriety: Before the initiation, individuals must abstain from alcohol or using other intoxicants, as these can affect one’s energy system and mental clarity.

Daily Practices: Sadhguru recommends daily yoga and meditation to prepare the body and mind for the deeper practices of Shoonya. These might include asanas (yoga postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), and dharana (concentration practices) that help to purify and balance the body and mind and create a conducive atmosphere for deeper inner experiences.

Positive Mindset: The initiation into Shoonya requires openness, commitment, and a genuine desire for self-exploration. A positive and willing mindset is crucial to embrace the practice and its potential benefits fully.

Orientation: Before initiation, participants are given a thorough orientation about the process, the precautions to be taken, and the commitment required. This is to ensure that they are mentally prepared for the initiation.

Physical Health: While Shoonya practices are generally safe if you have a medical condition, it is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before you begin the practice.

Continued Practice: Once initiated, one must practice the Shoonya meditation daily, which requires discipline and commitment.

These steps prepare an individual for the powerful transformative process that Shoonya meditation can bring. It is worth noting that these practices are not quick fixes but require sustained effort and commitment.

Shakti Chalana Kriya

Shakti Chalana Kriya is a set of powerful, purifying practices that enhance one’s vital energy flow. ‘Shakti’ refers to ‘power’ or ‘energy,’ ‘Chalana’ means ‘to move or motivate,’ and ‘Kriya’ signifies an ‘inner energy process.’ Therefore, Shakti Chalana Kriya is a practice designed to move your energy in a particular way.

Shoonya, on the other hand, is a meditative practice, often referred to as ‘an effortless process of conscious non-doing.’ Both these practices are often taught together and are interconnected. Shakti Chalana Kriya is often practiced to create vitality and stability in the body and energy system, enabling one to sit effortlessly and stably for the Shoonya meditation. It is a way to boost and balance one’s energy system to facilitate a deeper meditation experience.

Who Are These Practices For

Sadhguru often emphasizes that such powerful methods should always be learned under proper guidance and practiced with the necessary preparatory steps and precautions. Doing these practices regularly, one can enhance their perception and experience of life.

Shoonya and Shakti Chalana Kriya are advanced spiritual practices recommended for individuals who have a certain level of physical, mental, and emotional stability and are ready to commit to regular practice.

Shakti Chalana Kriya is a powerful practice that works on one’s energy system. It is best suited for those who are looking to enhance their energy levels, experience a deeper sense of well-being, and are willing to devote time each day to the practice.

Shoonya, on the other hand, is a meditation technique that can lead one to an experience of “emptiness” or a dimension beyond the physical. This practice is more appropriate for those who have already developed a certain degree of stability and discipline in their yoga practices and are ready to explore deeper dimensions of consciousness.

Sadhguru has mentioned that those with severe mental illnesses or unstable on a certain level should not attempt these practices, or at least not without proper guidance. As with any spiritual practice, it is recommended to consult with a trusted teacher or guide and to consider one’s individual needs and circumstances.

Shoonya, as per Sadhguru’s teachings, is an essential concept and experience that paves the path to self-realization. It’s about shedding our perceived identities and limitations to recognize our inherent unity with the rest of existence. This realization, achieved through Shoonya meditation and conscious living, is a cornerstone of Sadhguru’s spiritual teachings and continues to transform countless lives worldwide.