Nidhidhyasana

The 3-Fold Path to Awakening: Shravana, Manana, and Nididhyasana


In Vedanta, the journey to complete Awakening and Realization unfolds through a profound three-step process: Shravana (hearing), Manana (contemplation), and Nididhyasana (abidance). Each stage is a gateway to deeper understanding, guiding seekers from intellectual comprehension to experiential wisdom, and ultimately to abiding in Truth.

Let us explore these three sacred steps in detail and understand their transformative power.

Shravana: Hearing the Truth

Shravana, the first step, means hearing the Truth. But not all hearing is the same. There are two kinds of hearing:
  1. Worldly Hearing: This involves the ears, mind, and intellect. It is limited, impermanent, and serves to navigate our daily lives.
  2. Divine Hearing: This engages the Heart and the core of our Being. It transcends the mundane and operates at a higher frequency, connecting us to the immutable Truth, or Akshara.
The Guru is the instrument of Divine hearing. The Guru-shisya relationship is unparalleled in its purity and intimacy because it is rooted in Truth. The Guru speaks from the right side of the Heart—a space of wisdom and realization. As seekers, our task is to listen authentically, allowing the Guru’s words to penetrate deeply, sowing seeds of transformation.

Authentic Hearing

Authenticity in hearing requires openness, accountability, and a willingness to endure the challenges of Truth. The mind and ego often resist, but steadfast seekers embrace the guidance of the Guru, recognizing that the path to everlasting joy demands discipline and surrender.
From a yogic perspective, Shravana achieves Pratyahara—the turning of the life force inward toward the Self.

Manana: Contemplating the Truth

Hearing the Truth is not enough. The second step, Manana, involves deep reflection and contemplation. It requires revisiting the Guru’s teachings, pondering their meaning, and applying them in daily life.
This stage is about discerning the real from the unreal. Like a swan separating milk from water, the seeker must develop the ability to extract Truth while rejecting falsehood. Repeated hearing and contemplation strengthen this discernment.

The Role of Vasanas

Vasanas (deep-seated tendencies and attachments) often arise during this process. They can divert attention from the Divine goal, leading to distraction and suffering. However, rather than running away from worldly objects, seekers are encouraged to engage with them mindfully, absorbing only what is necessary while remaining anchored in the Self.
Manana demands discipline and focus. The tug of war between the left (emotional) and right (wise) sides of the Heart challenges the seeker to remain aligned with their Divine purpose.
From a yogic perspective, Manana achieves Dharana—sustained focus on the Truth.

Nididhyasana: Living the Truth

The culmination of Shravana and Manana is Nididhyasana, where the seeker begins to live and breathe the Truth. It is effortless, spontaneous, and natural. Here, one operates from the full power of the Self, experiencing the totality of Being.

Effortless Abidance

In this stage, agitation, conflicts, and restlessness subside. The seeker abides in unwavering peace, moving seamlessly between the human and Divine dimensions. Concepts dissolve, and direct experience of the Self arises.
This is the realm of Dhyana (meditation) and Samadhi (unwavering abidance). It is a state of profound freedom, where the mind no longer poses problems, and vasanas no longer bind the seeker.

The Role of Guru and Self-Power

The Guru’s Grace is indispensable in this journey, but it is only 50% of the equation. The seeker’s own effort, authenticity, and willingness to receive and activate their inner power are equally crucial.
A true Guru empowers rather than imposes, activating the higher centers within the seeker. However, the seeker must cultivate their capacity to receive and explore this inner Shakti (spiritual energy).

Practical Takeaways: The 1-3-5 Rule to Self-Shaktipat

This simple yet profound rule enhances the seeker’s ability to listen, contemplate, and abide in Truth:
  1. One Purpose: Always remember your Divine goal—realizing the Self.
  2. Three Pillars: Practice Shravana, Manana, and Nididhyasana consistently.
  3. Five Practices: Develop discipline, devotion, discernment, focus, and surrender.

Conclusion

The 3-fold process of Shravana, Manana, and Nididhyasana offers a complete roadmap to spiritual Awakening. It is a journey from hearing to contemplation to living the Truth—a journey that transforms the seeker into the Self.
While the path may be challenging, it is also profoundly rewarding. With the Guru’s Grace and one’s own steadfast effort, the ocean of vasanas can be crossed, and the shores of Liberation can be reached.
Let us walk this sacred path with courage, authenticity, and unwavering commitment, always remembering that the Truth is not something to be attained—it is who we already are.





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Meet Prakash Chegu

 

 Name: Prakash Chegu
Background: Prakash Chegu is a highly experienced Kundalini Yoga teacher with over four decades of dedicated practice and two decades of teaching in the field. Born and raised in a deeply spiritual family in a small town in Southern India, the spiritual practice at the core of the life-style is ingrained in all aspects of life. Prakash's journey into Kundalini Yoga began at a very young age. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in yogic practices viz., Kriyas, Mantras, and Meditation, he developed a profound connection with the ancient practice.
 
Education and Training: Prakash pursued a rigorous and traditional education in yoga, alongside a strong engineering and technology, that nurtured his insatiable curiosity into everything life has to offer including Yogic Philosophy from the ancient scriptures, Vedas, and Upanishads. He further honed his skills by studying under renowned Kundalini Yoga masters across the world and undertaking advanced training in Kundalini Yoga therapy, meditation, and an ancient yogic healing modality called Sat Nam Rasayan.
 
Teaching Style: Prakash's teaching style is deeply rooted in authenticity and spirituality. He believes in the transformative power of Kundalini Yoga and seeks to share its immense benefits with his students. His classes are dynamic, inspiring as well as harmonious, and a blend of traditional techniques and modern understanding, making the practice accessible to people from all walks of life.
 
Prakash is known for his:
  1. Compassion: He creates a nurturing and inclusive environment where students feel supported in their personal journeys. Prakash understands that everyone's path is unique and offers individualized guidance to help students reach their full potential.
  2. Expertise: With his extensive knowledge of life-time of learning including Kundalini Yoga, Prakash can guide students through even the most complex kriyas and meditations. His in-depth understanding of the bodies, Ayurveda, chakras, and Vedic astrology allows him to facilitate profound experiences of awakening and self-realization.
  3. Holistic Approach: Prakash emphasizes the integration of mind, body, and spirit in his teachings. He incorporates pranayama, mantra chanting, and meditation to help his students achieve a state of balance and harmony.
  4. Innovation: While deeply rooted in tradition, Prakash is open to weaving modern techniques and scientific insights related to yoga and energy work. He continually deepens his teaching methods by integrating scientific research that keeps increasingly validating ancient technologies to provide his students with a well-rounded and relevant experience.
Value Generation: Prakash Chegu is not just a yoga teacher; He's a spiritual alchemist, a guide who empowers his students to unlock their full potential. His immense domain experience and deep spiritual connection allow him to:
  • Help individuals release physical and emotional blockages, enabling them to experience greater vitality and emotional well-being.
  • Assist students in tapping into their inner wisdom and intuition, fostering personal growth and self-awareness.
  • Guide individuals on a journey of self-discovery, helping them connect with their purpose and passion.
  • Foster a sense of community and support among her students, creating a network of like-minded individuals dedicated to personal growth and spiritual evolution.
 
Additionally, Prakash Chegu is a successful entrepreneur, and Engineer from a reputed university that brings depth and adequate practical knowledge of Yogic Philosophy in technology and life in general.
 
Prakash Chegu's classes are sought after by those who seek not only physical health but also spiritual transformation. His dedication to Kundalini Yoga and his ability to generate immense value in the lives of the students make him a respected figure in the world of yoga and holistic wellness.
 

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