Written references to the Vignana Bhairava Tantra
date from about 700 - 800 AD, but it is considered to
be much older, most likely coming from an oral
tradition in Southern India that stretches back into the
dim mists of time. The Tantra contains 163 verses,
written in the ancient energy-based language of
Sanskrit, of which 112 are called Dharanas or
Centering Techniques.
The Sanskrit word Vignana means Consciousness
and Bhairava describes the three-fold universal divine
aspect of Shiva. Vignana Bhairava therefore means
Universal Divine Consciousness and the 112
Dharanas contain precise instructions on how to
contact this transcendental level of the mind.
The Tantra takes the form of a conversation between
Shiva and his consort Parvati, who asks Shiva to
reveal the various ways to Self Realization. In his
answer Shiva describes 112 ways to enter into the
universal and transcendental state of pure
consciousness. In Sanskrit this is called the state of
Samadhi.
We became aware of the Vignana Bhairava Tantra
about 3 years ago and started studying the verses in
depth at the beginning of this year, using the works of
Swami Lakshmanjoo and Jiadeva Singh to bring out
the most accurate translation and instruction for each
Dharana.
Since then we have experimented with only 12 of
these Dharanas and have been amazed by the
results. Practising just one or two Dharanas after our
regular daily meditations has produced effects far
beyond our expectations and thoroughly enriched our
lives. So much so that we decided to set up 3
Workshops at the Coronation Hall in Alton Barnes this
summer to share these little known techniques with
anyone who is interested in raising their own level
consciousness to new heights.
Experience in deep meditation has shown us that this
transcendental state of pure consciousness or
Samadhi is found at the source of thought itself.
Every thought we have comes from this peaceful,
silent level of the mind, rising like bubbles through the
subconscious until they burst onto the conscious level
of the mind as perceived thoughts.
During each Workshop we will be teaching you a
superb meditation technique from the first Dharana of
the Tantra, which will help settle the mind down to this
silent level of pure consciousness. The technique
uses a combination of breath awareness attached to
particular sound vibrations and visualisation of two
subtle energy centres.
Using the experience gained from this meditation
technique we will then practice a number of other
Dharanas which will cover various techniques
associated with:-
•
Empty Space of the Sushumna Nadi
•
Shakti Energy of the 7 Chakras
•
Inner Light of the Cranium
•
Prana Shakti of the Third Eye
•
Curled Tongue Mudra
•
The Internal Space of the Heart Lotus
•
Dvadashanta Energy Centres
•
Omnipresence
We will break for refreshments about half-way through
the Workshop and after practicing the last Dharana we
will teach you how to pronounce and chant a number
of Sanskrit Mantras, which can be used to improve
your daily experience of life on all levels. The entrance
fee (in cash) will be taken at the door. Please confirm
your intention to attend.
Email: samadhiworkshop@yahoo.co.uk
Stuart Dike: 07805 410 606
Dave Tarr: 07818 068 753