Yoga Styles: Japa-Yoga
January 23rd 2009 19:18
Japa Yoga is one of the meditative practices that is a pathway to understanding and realization of one's own inner divinity or to that of a specific religious Lord. It may also be used as a part of Dhyana practice stemming from Patanjali's 8 limbs of Yoga, in which case the name fades and the meditation continues once concentration has been achieved.
The practice involves the repetition of a mantra or of the name of the deity, spoken either mentally or with a soft verbal tone. When one speaks the mantra internally, within one's mind, it is termed Manasika Japa. When whispered or spoken softly, it is termed Vaikhari Japa. Likhita Japa refers to the continual and repetitive writing of the mantra.
In some Yoga practices, Japa Yoga is a five or fifteen minute daily practice added to the Asanas, while in other traditions, Japa Yoga may be a practice taking up to two hours a day and with specific instructions.
Different practices stem from various traditions and religions, and Japa Yoga can be used as a meditation aid whichever religion you personally follow - it is as suitable to use a mantra belonging to a Buddhist Guru or to Christ as it is to select one applicable to Rama or Krishna. Some mantras suited to use for various practitioners include:
* Om Sri Krishnaya Namah
* Om Sri Ramaya Namah
* Om Mani Padme Hum/Hung
The practice involves the repetition of a mantra or of the name of the deity, spoken either mentally or with a soft verbal tone. When one speaks the mantra internally, within one's mind, it is termed Manasika Japa. When whispered or spoken softly, it is termed Vaikhari Japa. Likhita Japa refers to the continual and repetitive writing of the mantra.
In some Yoga practices, Japa Yoga is a five or fifteen minute daily practice added to the Asanas, while in other traditions, Japa Yoga may be a practice taking up to two hours a day and with specific instructions.
Different practices stem from various traditions and religions, and Japa Yoga can be used as a meditation aid whichever religion you personally follow - it is as suitable to use a mantra belonging to a Buddhist Guru or to Christ as it is to select one applicable to Rama or Krishna. Some mantras suited to use for various practitioners include:
* Om Sri Krishnaya Namah
* Om Sri Ramaya Namah
* Om Mani Padme Hum/Hung
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