Message #24829

[Jitendra Hydonus]

Paramahansa Yogananda talks about relaxation he says;

Physical culturist health enthusiasts and spiritual teachers all talk on the subject of relaxation; nevertheless, few persons understand what perfect relaxation of body and mind really is or how to achieve such relaxation. Some persons have learned how to relax physically but not mentally. And even mental relaxation is only one of the first steps of metaphysical or super relaxation, in which there is complete voluntary withdrawal of consciousness and energy from the entire body, and full of absorption in one's true identity: Spirit This release of Consciousness from the delusion of duality affords the highest kind of mental relaxation. Before the mind can be free of all distractions -- those induced by sensory impressions from without and within and those created by restlessly wandering thoughts-- some degree of physical relaxation is necessary. Those who are very strong-minded may be able to overcome physical distractions by the command of mind alone; but usually the beginner yogi finds that it is easier first to overcome physical restlessness by some physical method.

In SRF Lesson 70 he gives such methods.