Hindu and Buddhist traditions and philosophies include a wide variety of symbolic elements in their practices, loaded with divine and energetic meanings. Among them are the yantrasWhat are they complex geometric representations of levels and energies, both of the cosmos (personalized in the shape of the deities) like the human body (conceived as a microcosmic replica of the macrocosm).
The word yantra comes from the Sanskrit prefix yam, which means “to conceive” or “mental conception”. Each yantra is made up of geometric shapes: squares, circles, and triangles, as well as lotus petals and a root center. In its design, numbers with power for Hindu numerology and astrology and colors are considered, among which stand out: white, orange, red and blue.
Yantras are instruments used in Hindu ceremonies, where they are considered the «body» of the deity they represent.. They are drawn on paper, wood or cloth; They are also engraved on metal or other materials, and are even designed in three dimensions in clay, sand or metal.
Benefits of using yantras
Although they can be used as talismans or amulets, their main use is as instruments for meditation, since they promote calm and concentration and promote physical, mental and spiritual well-being.
During meditation, the yantra acts as a focal point towards the absolute. It is designed to raise consciousness and bring the meditator closer to a higher degree of spirituality..
This is achieved thanks to the ability to draw the eye and attention to the center of the composition, which is usually perfectly symmetrical. It is not a question of observing the details of the yantra, but of keeping the gaze in the center, from where the entire composition is contemplated as a whole.
Each yantra corresponds to a mantra (sacred phoneme) and the yantra is also considered a recipient of the energy of said mantra. In addition, both elements complement each other, since they harmonize the energy of the person who meditates with that of the yantra, which in turn vibrates with the infinite energy of the universe. In meditation, yantras and mantras are generally used simultaneously.
Sri Yantra: the supreme yantra
There are different types of yantras and each one addresses specific spiritual needs, but the one that is considered the supreme yantra and the best known of all is the Sri Yantra, whose name alludes to the energy of the goddess (Sri), summarized in a complex scheme of forms consecrated to Shakti.
Besides, It is the geometric representation of the sound of OM, and since each yantra has its own mantra, the one that corresponds to the Sri Yantra is: Om Sri Yantra Purvasinyei Namaha.
This yantra is composed of nine juxtaposed triangles and placed in such a way that they originate a total of 43 small triangles. Four of the first nine triangles point upwards and represent the masculine cosmic energy (Shiva); the other five point downwards and symbolize the feminine force (Shakti).
These triangles are surrounded by a lotus with eight petals that symbolizes the god Vishnu. The next lotus, with 16 petals, represents the conquest of the desired goal and the power over the mind and the senses.
Around this lotus are four concentric lines, which are symbolically connected to the two lotuses. Finally, the triple line that surrounds it designates the analogy between the entire universe and the human body.
By gazing towards the central point of the Sri Yantra during meditation, it is believed that it is possible to create changes in the brain and stimulate the pineal gland by focusing attention on the third eye area.
The pineal gland is located in the brain and is responsible for producing melatonin, a hormone that is derived from serotonin and in turn affects the modulation of sleep patterns in circadian and seasonal rhythms.
How to meditate with the Sri Yantra
To perform a meditation accompanied by the Sri Yantra, the yantra must first be placed at a distance of approximately 1.5 meters, so that its center is at the level of your eyes.while you sit in front of him in a comfortable position, with a completely straight spine.
Begin by inhaling and exhaling slowly until your breath flows naturally. Keep your eyes open, with the gaze focused on the center of the yantra. Then direct your gaze towards the first triangles that surround the center, while maintaining a relaxed and rhythmic breath.
Then, open your field of vision a little more towards the first circle that surrounds them and towards the petals of the lotus flower, which represent your understanding of the meditation. Then look at all the circles that surround the rest of the figures, which represent the cycles of cosmic rhythms. Keep the rhythm of your breathing at all times and let your thoughts flow, do not stagnate in any.
Finally, observe the square that is on the outside of the yantra, which represents the material world and the interior of life, that is, the earthly landscape from the external and also the material towards the internal and the sacred.
At this point, you should close your eyes and look at the yantra in your mind, so that its energy gradually guides you inward.. Stay like this for as long as you consider necessary, without stopping to breathe harmoniously. You can even listen or recite the mantra that corresponds to this yantra: Om Sri Yantra Purvasinyei Namaha.
When you want to stop, take a deep breath, wiggle your fingers and toes, stretch your whole body a bit, and slowly open your eyes.
The purpose of this meditation is for you to achieve concentration in your conscience and in your inner being, as it helps you find the tranquility and inner peace that you require.
With information from Yoga online and Sacred Geometry Space