Ask The Master: 01 Feb 2008

Then why do we need meditation techniques?

Meditation techniques are NOT there to help you achieve. They are there to help you remember.

If i suddenly tell you, Slip into Ananda! -- is it possible?

You are not even aware that Ananda is your natural state. And when you are not aware, the process of meditation can be confusing and frightening.

To enter into meditation is like entering a shoreless ocean. When you are just learning to swim, will you directly enter the ocean on your own?

NO! You need a lifebuoy to keep you afloat, you need a lighthouse to show you the way.

In the same way, when you enter into meditation, you will need a method to show you what to do, to show you the path of meditation that is most natural for you.

Meditation techniques are nothing but lifebuoys. Once meditation becomes your way of life, you will automatically drop the formal techniques!

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This excerpt has been taken from the book: "Meditation is for You" -- an introduction to the science and art of meditation