Stages to samadhi

Scientists today acknowledge the fact that humans are only utilizing one-tenth of their total brain power. If you consider all that humans have accomplished in the fields of science and technology, etc., utilizing only one small compartment of the brain, you may gain some idea of how much might be possible with development of the mine silent centers of the brain. As the mind expands, it increases in power and all physical barriers are transcended. Scientists call the dormant brain the "silent area. Little is known about its capacity, but neurologists say it has something to do with ones psychic capacity. After long and arduous practis of yoga, the psychic potential manifests, maybe in the form of clairvouance, clairaudience, telepathy, telekinesis, psychic healing etc. These are called siddhis or "perfections". Some people regard them as a grand achievement, but they are only temporary manifestations which can even hinder further spiritual progress. The goal of all yogic sadhana is to discover and experience the universal spirit within, and if siddhis are indulged in, they take one away from the ultimate experience. Therefore, they are better ignored as they are not the desired fruit of hatha yoga.

Although regular practice of hatha yoga can bring about many wonderful changes and desired results, it is essential to remember that they are only side-effects. Hatha yoga is not being taught for its own sake, for therapeutic purposes, or for gaining worldly or psychic powers, and this is something hatha yoga practitioners should always keep in mind.

As the individual consciousness moves closer to the real self, the supports on which the mind is dependent, i.e. the senses and sensorial world, become less influential. Consciousness can fall into a void if the mind completely dissolves without having a base to fall back on. Preservation of the mind and body must take place when the consciousness moves into higher states. The senses must be conditioned to retract and extend at will. The concept of Vishnu is an aspect of existence which links prana and consciousness to the physical body and creation.