Ashtanga Yoga - the 8 fold path

Part 6 - Dharana

Dharana is the 6th component of Ashtanga yoga and is one-pointed concentration on an object. This is something which cannot be achieved without regular practice. If you try it, you will experience how difficult it can be.
It is important that you choose the object to concentrate on carefully as it should be something you can focus on spontaneously without forcing it. If you try too hard to focus on an object you can end up gritting your teeth and tensing your facial muscles. Try not to force the issue as you know that Dharana leads to the next step Dhyana but try not to fight with your mind to obtain this goal.

Forced concentration is not really concentration as it creates tension in the mind and separates us from the path to Dhyana. We should limit the activities of the mind within the limited sphere allowed by the object. Once the withdrawal of the senses (Pratyahara) has taken place you can withdraw the senses to a central point or object. Dharana extends into Dhyana when you are able to maintain a smooth, un-fluctuating flow of consciousness towards the inner symbol for a certain period of time.

PranaYoga - Yoga & Relaxation	Last Update: 6-11-2007