Meditation March 2023: Ishvara Pranidhana (Surrender) – OM

Happy Meditation March 25, 2023 – Ishvara Pranidhana (Surrender)

Good Morning Yogis! We are on the last day of this round of weaving practice of each of the Niyamas into our day. Today we will practice Ishvara Pranidhana or Surrender focusing on the literal translation from Sanskrit – surrender to all-pervading consciousness and its vibration/sound/representation: OM.

Bonus Daily Meditation Challenge

We are in the middle of a bonus Daily Meditation Challenge for March. For Ishvara Pranidhana Day today, we will get our OMs on! I am going to practice a Guided Meditation with some OMs!

gold om symbol on dark green background
Om – Sanskrit

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to practice some OMs for Ishvara Pranidhana Day. OM is pronounced as a very long A-U-M or OOOM, not like “on” with an m. OM is familiar in the East, but often the only exposure for those in the West is at Yoga class. You can do this on your own if you are practiced, or check out this video to learn how to properly OM on your own, or perhaps try this video as a guided meditation.

Cymatics

I recently learned about Chladni plates, cymatics, and visual representation of OM. If you are a science nerd like me, PLEASE go check this out.. it is mind-blowing.

Want more Ishvara Pranidhana practices? Check out our Ishvara Pranidhana Guide!

Get today’s Daily Yogi Positive Practice in your inbox
Register for our email list!

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

Get today’s Daily Yogi Positive Practice in your inbox
Register for our email list!

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

More Positive Practices

Missed yesterday’s post? Read it here!

Related Positive Practices

Share your Practice

Please comment and share your experience if you got your OM on with us today! Have you tried this before, or is OM new to you? What did you think? Always remember, be kind!

Meditation March 2023: Svadhyaya (Self-Study) – Learning

Happy Meditation March 24, 2023 – Svadhyaya (Self-Study)

Good Morning Yogis! We are continuing on with weaving practice of each of the Niyamas into our day. Last time we practiced the fourth of the NiyamasSvadhyaya or self-study by beginning a journal if we had not kept one. Today we will focus on the other Svadhyaya practice of studying sacred texts. During our intro studying sacred texts, we studied three passages from the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, where I draw inspiration for the Daily Yogi practices. Today, rather than a standard sacred text, I was drawn to a quote by an ancient philosopher. If this one does not resonate with you, perhaps check out more quotes from Aristotle. Or, if you practice a religion, perhaps read a meaningful section of your traditional sacred texts.

Bonus Daily Meditation Challenge

We are in the middle of a bonus Daily Meditation Challenge for March! For Svadhyaya Day today, our meditation is a Guided Meditation for Focus and Learning.

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to reflect on today’s quote on learning. Or, feel free to reflect on quotes from your own religion’s sacred texts.

alpine forest with exposed dirt and rocks among dark green pine trees - svadhyaya self-study learning Quote: Intelligent individuals learn from every thing and every one; average people, from their experiences. The stupid already have all the answers. - Aristotle
Intelligent individuals learn from every thing and every one; average people, from their experiences. The stupid already have all the answers. – Aristotle

Journal Day

Also, this is a good time to make another journal entry if you have not kept up with this new practice! I am focused on Svadhyaya this year, but last year was happy to be reminded to keep up with this on Svadhyaya days. If you are not sure what to write about, perhaps journal about your thoughts on any quotes from any sacred texts, or your Yogi journey so far. Or, use one of the recent prompts from my 5 year guided journal recommended below: If your life had a theme song, what would it be? Who is your mentor?

Want more Svadhyaya practices? Check out our Svadhyaya Guide!


Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This page contains affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, may earn me a small commission. Read full privacy policy here.

More Positive Practices

Missed yesterday’s post? Read it here!

Related Positive Practices

Share your Practice

Please comment and share your thoughts on the above quotes, or your own readings if you would like. Have you kept up with your journal, or are you making another entry with me for Svadhyaya Day? Always remember, be kind!

Meditation March 2023: Tapas (Discipline)

Happy Meditation March 23, 2023 – Tapas (Discipline)

Good Morning Yogis! Today is Tapas or Discipline Day! We are continuing on with weaving practice of each of the Niyamas into our day. This is our third Tapas Day. On our first/intro Tapas Day, we made a goal that was important to us, and we have checked on our progress and/or made new goals each Tapas Day. If you have not kept up, examine why you did not, and consider if you want to keep this goal or set a new one. Evaluate the reminders and/or rewards you set for yourself, and perhaps modify these systems to ensure your success! If you are having a hard time keeping up with the daily habits you have set for yourself, consider trying and sticking with a 30 Day Challenge!

cool perspective close-up shady green clover near bright green leavy shrubs - tapas self-discipline daily habits change Quote: Very often, a change of self is needed more than a change of scene. - A.C. Benson
Very often, a change of self is needed more than a change of scene. – A.C. Benson

Bonus Daily Meditation Challenge

We are in the middle of a bonus Daily Meditation Challenge for March! For Tapas day today, try a Morning Motivation Guided Meditation.

Discipline vs Motivation

Now, we are going to have a bit of tough love here. This is likely not your first Tapas Day.. if you have not kept up with your habit from our first day, we really need to be honest with ourselves.

If you have always wanted to speak French but it just is not happening for you.. you need to put in the time and effort to learn French! You will never just magically wake up one day with your dream at your feet, you need to put in the work. You can sign up for classes at a local community college or adult education center, get a free language app, get an audio-course to learn on your commute, maybe all three, whatever works for you!

Thomas Edison said “Success is 10% Inspiration and 90% Perspiration” and I also enjoy articles on Discipline over Motivation. I do best with sticking to my goals by planning them for first thing in the morning. If you cannot make mornings work, plan it into your day like a doctors appointment or other meeting you cannot miss – put it on your calendar, set alarms and reminders, etc. DO IT!
PS building discipline is hard at first, but if you keep at it, it WILL get easier!

Yoga is a practice, and successfully changing our habits is about consistency, so we will keep checking in on our goals on Tapas Days.

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to monitor our daily habit goals, and set a new one if needed. If you are having a hard time keeping up with the daily habits you have set for yourself, consider trying and sticking with a 30 Day Challenge!

Want more Tapas practices? Check out our Tapas Guide!

Next INTRO CHALLENGE May 2023

Days
Hours
Minutes
Seconds

More Positive Practices

Missed yesterday’s post? Read it here!

Related Positive Practices

Share your Practice

Please comment and share how you are doing. Have you kept up with your new habit? Are you changing your systems or perhaps setting a new meaningful goal? Always remember, be kind!

Meditation March 2023: Santosha (Contentment) – Mindfulness

Happy Meditation March 22, 2023 – Santosha (Contentment)

Good Morning Yogis! Today is Santosha or contentment Day. Today we are going to revisit Mindfulness, a concept and practice that relates to Santosha.

cool perspective close-up modern abstract concrete sculpture from decordova sculpture garden among bright green grass and sunlit trees - santosha contentment happiness mindfulness mindful present moment Quote: The ability to be in the present moment is a major component of mental wellness. - Abraham Maslow
The ability to be in the present moment is a major component of mental wellness. – Abraham Maslow

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is fully being present or “in the moment” without distractions, and observing your inner and/or outer world without judgment. This is a practice embraced by both Eastern Philosophy and Western Psychology as key for both contentment and stress reduction. Many enjoy Yoga because it brings Mindfulness with focus on breath, moving between poses, and being present in our bodies. Mindfulness can help reduce anxiety, remain calm in stressful situations, support positive thinking, and increase the quality of our lives.

More on Mindfulness and Benefits

Psychology Today – Understanding, Practicing, and Benefits of Mindfulness

Mindful – Getting Started with Mindfulness (and Meditation)

Bonus Daily Meditation Challenge

We are in the middle of a bonus Daily Meditation Challenge for March! For our Mindfulness-focused Santosha Day today, our meditation is a  Mindfulness Guided Meditation.

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice for Santosha Day is to try to practice Mindfulness. Like many other challenging mental practices in Yoga like Aparigraha, remember this is a journey and be patient with your progress in this difficult practice, especially if it is new for you!

PS calmly notice when your thoughts drift back to the past or forward to the future. Try to bring yourself back to the present moment by focusing on the sight, sounds, smells, taste, or feel of your surroundings.

  • Go on a walk, and perhaps literally stop and smell the roses.
  • Take a run and feel the wind on your face.
  • Being around water is especially calming, maybe head out for a walk down the beach, around a lake, or by a river.
  • Go for a hike and appreciate the beauty around you, rather than focusing on finding a perfect selfie spot.
  • Take note of your thoughts during a stressful situation, and observe them without judgment rather than getting caught up with them.
  • Bring Mindfulness to your eating by paying attention to all five senses, chewing slowly, and truly enjoying every bite!
  • Sit quietly, and go through all of your senses one by one to appreciate your surroundings.
  • Try a body scan, especially in Shavasana after Asana practice, in a comfortable chair, or before bed.
  • Check out more Mindfulness practices from Mindful.org

Please remember Mindfulness is a difficult practice, so please be gentle with yourself!

Want more Santosha practices? Check out our Santosha Guide!

Follow us on Instagram – easy access to our daily positive practices
Plus second daily reminder photo /edit On INSTAGRAM Only
(2nd Insta post currently paused)

@dailyyogi.world
tag us with your Asana pics!
enable notifications for pop-up reminders!

More Positive Practices

Missed yesterday’s post? Read it here!

Related Positive Practices

Share your Practice

Please comment and share how your Santosha Day went focusing on Mindfulness. Please share any favorite practices or tricks! Always remember, be kind!

Meditation March 2023: Saucha (Purity) – Aries Season

Happy Meditation March 21, 2023 – Saucha (Purity) – Aries Season

Good Morning Yogis! It is the start of the Astrological New Year, and today Saucha Day!

We completed our round of practices of the Yamas and now we are moving on to the Niyamas! Last time we practiced the first of the Niyamas, Saucha or purity with our bodies, with a deep clean or pampering self-care practice.

alpine forest with glacial granite boulder formation among dark green pine trees - saucha purity cleanliness self-care new beginning fresh start Quote: New beginnings are often disguised as painful endings. - Lao Tzu
New beginnings are often disguised as painful endings. – Lao Tzu

Astrological New Year – Aries Season

I am sorry to be a day late to tie in with our daily practices, but yesterday was the start of Aries Season – Happy Birthday Aries Yogis! This is the start of the year for the Zodiac Calendar, and we are also at the start of Spring! So, with Saucha Day and the start of spring, it is a perfect day for some spring cleaning! For an Aries themed Yoga Practice today, I recommend Nadi Shodhana or Channel-Clearing Breath, which reminds me of the symbol for Aries below!

red and white aries zodiac astrology symbol

Bonus Daily Meditation Challenge

We are in the middle of a bonus Daily Meditation Challenge for March! For Saucha Day today, since we will be cleaning our homes my meditation for the day is a Guided Meditation on Organizing our Thoughts.

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to practice Saucha or Purity with our surroundings. The Spring Equinox was this past weekend depending on your time zone, so we will focus on spring cleaning for our own homes! Perhaps pick one or two rooms that can use some TLC, and go through the spring cleaning deep-cleaning suggestions for that room!

I personally do not do well when my home is cluttered or disorganized. I need everything to have its own place to go back to, or else I cannot find anything! Pick an area of your home or office to declutter and clean. Get storage bins, drawer organizers, or whatever you need to help yourself keep this area clean and organized going forward. Whether it is your closet, garage, junk drawer, basement, car, or your e-mail inbox, work on bringing Saucha to one of your spaces that you feel needs some TLC.

Want more Saucha practices? Check out our Saucha Guide!

Want more Cleaning Ideas and hacks?
Check our cleaning Tips & Tricks on Pinterest!

Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This page contains affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, may earn me a small commission. Read full privacy policy here.

More Positive Practices

Missed yesterday’s post? Read it here!

Related Positive Practices

Share your Practice

Please comment and share how you decided to practice Saucha today. I always feel my mind is less cluttered when my space is less cluttered. How did it make you feel? Always remember, be kind!

Meditation March 2023: Aparigraha (Non-Attachment)

Happy Meditation March 20, 2023 – Aparigraha (Non-Attachment)

Good Morning Yogis! Today is the Spring Equinox – Happy Spring Yogis in the North Hemisphere! Today is Aparigraha or Non-Attachment Day. Last time we practiced the positive of the last of the Yamas – Aparigraha or non-attachment directly by practicing non-attachment with our actions. Today we will practice the positive meaning of non-attachment, or gratitude.

Bonus Daily Meditation Challenge

We are in the middle of a bonus Daily Meditation Challenge for March! For Aparigraha Day today, my meditation for the day is a Morning Gratitude Guided Meditation.

shot of white flower and green leaves growing up through sidewalk pavement - aparigraha non-attachment gratitude Quote: Reflect upon your present blessings— of which every man has many— not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some. - Charles Dickens
Reflect upon your present blessings— of which every man has many— not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some. – Charles Dickens

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to make a list of five things (I just love Top 5 Lists!) you are grateful for in your life, right now. OR, if you are ready for an added challenge – try to practice gratitude all day today, and especially in any challenging situation. Need some ideas for your list? They can be big or small.

You may be grateful for physical things like your health or your long hair or your home or your beautiful garden. You may be grateful for your family or friends or pets. You may be proud of something you accomplished or positive personal traits like humor or loyalty. You may be grateful for past learning experiences or positive changes you see in yourself or the world. Or, these are tough times.. if you are proud for getting out of bed and taking a shower, or putting on pants for your zoom meeting, then celebrate small victories!

This practice is about finding the joy and blessings in the moment. Focus your attention to positivity and abundance already in your life, rather than putting off your happiness for something in the future.

Want more Aparigraha practices? Check out our Aparigraha Guide!

Want to See more like this?

Follow DailyYogi on Pinterest!

More Positive Practices

Missed yesterday’s post? Read it here!

Related Positive Practices

Share your Practice

Please comment to share how this Aparigraha gratitude exercise made you feel, or feel free to share your list! Always remember, be kind!

Meditation March 2023: Brahmacharya (Moderation)

Happy Meditation March 19, 2023 – Brahmacharya (Moderation)

Good Morning Yogis! Today is Brahmacharya or Moderation Day. I personally need more work-life balance in my life right now, so we are having another KISS (keep it super simple) Day!

Bonus Daily Meditation Challenge

We are in the middle of a bonus Daily Meditation Challenge for March! For Brahmacharya Day today, my meditation for the day is a Guided Meditation on Balance.

forest with green leafy trees under blue sky - brahmacharya moderation middle path balance Quote: Time and balance the two most difficult things to have control over, yet they are both the things that we do control. - Catherine Pulsifer
Time and balance the two most difficult things to have control over, yet they are both the things that we do control. – Catherine Pulsifer

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to exercise moderation or take the Middle Path in a way is meaningful for you today for Brahmacharya Day. Need some ideas?

  • Look for temptations during the day, and neither indulge nor ignore the craving, but instead make a healthy choice. Like maybe a salad instead of fast food, or fruit instead of candy, or yogurt instead of cake or ice cream. Maybe have just a couple pieces of candy instead of NOMMING the whole bag (this one is both inspired by and directed towards me!)
  • Make today the first day taking steps to minimize an unhealthy lifestyle choice. Perhaps get a nicotine gum or patch to stop smoking, or plan a reasonable cut-back schedule with small goals you can reach rather than the cold-turkey approach.
  • If you have been super busy with work and family with our current quarantine situation, ask for help and take 15 minutes minimum to spoil yourself with a bath or workout or even a nap, whatever you need!
  • Take a digital break – plan today to have an evening without phone or social media.
  • Choose your own way to practice a more balanced lifestyle today that feels right to you.

Want more Brahmacharya practices? Check out our Brahmacharya Guide!

Follow us on Instagram – easy access to our daily positive practices
Plus second daily reminder photo /edit On INSTAGRAM Only
(2nd Insta post currently paused)

@dailyyogi.world
tag us with your Asana pics!
enable notifications for pop-up reminders!

More Positive Practices

Missed yesterday’s post? Read it here!

Related Positive Practices

Share your Practice

Please comment and share how you chose to practice Brahmacharya today! Always remember, be kind!

Meditation March 2023: Asteya (Non-Stealing)

Happy Meditation March 18, 2023 – Asteya (Non-Stealing)

Good Morning Yogis! It is Asteya Day! Last time we practiced the positive version of the third of the Yamas – Asteya or non-stealing with an act of generosity, but today we will take it a step further and examine non-stealing.

Bonus Daily Meditation Challenge

We are in the middle of a bonus Daily Meditation Challenge for March! For Asteya day today, my meditation for the day is a Guided Meditation on Balance in Our Lives.

garden with green leafy tree among green grass and shrubs under blue sky - asteya non-stealing giving balance Quote: Justice is balance in human affairs. Balance is wider than justice, since it includes justice and more than justice. - Orlando Jay Smith
Justice is balance in human affairs. Balance is wider than justice, since it includes justice and more than justice. – Orlando Jay Smith

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to actively practice Asteya or non-stealing in our lives. Need ideas? This is going to be similar to our Satya practice from yesterday, and we should reflect on areas of our life where we may be acting a bit selfishly or taking advantage of a situation. If you are taking a lot of assistance or time from a particular person but not giving much in return, reflect on that and consider how you can make the situation more fair. Or, examine a situation where you have been taking more than giving, express gratitude, and see how you can make things more balanced and take better care of those who take care of you. Examine areas where you can focus a bit more Asteya, and express that however it feels right to you.

Get the Daily Yogi App – Get quick access to
today’s practice and daily pop-up reminders!

More Positive Practices

Missed yesterday’s post? Read it here!

Related Positive Practices

Share your Practice

Please comment and share how you decided to practice Asteya today. How did it make you feel? Always remember, be kind!

Meditation March 2023: Satya (Truthfulness)

Happy Meditation March 17, 2023 – Satya (Truthfulness)

Good Morning Yogis! We are continuing on with weaving practice of each of the Yamas into our day. Today is Satya or Truthfulness Day. Last time we practiced the second of the Yamas, with a kind truth, but today we will examine and practice from a different angle.

Bonus Daily Meditation Challenge

We are in the middle of a bonus Daily Meditation Challenge for March! For Satya Day today, my meditation for the day is a Guided Meditation on uncovering your True Self.

alpine forest with lichen covered rocks and moss among dark green pine trees - satya truth truthfulness self honesty Quote: The freedom to be yourself is a gift only you can give yourself. But once you do, no one can take it away. - Doe Zantamata
The freedom to be yourself is a gift only you can give yourself. But once you do, no one can take it away. – Doe Zantamata

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to actively exercise Satya or truthfulness with ourselves today. Need ideas? It can be big or small.

This usually means examining mindsets, practices, or people in our life that may not be serving us. For example, maybe you are like me and should really examine eating less candy and more veggies. Or maybe you have other unhealthy practices like smoking, or a medical issue you have been putting off getting examined. Perhaps you have “friends” who cut you down to bring themselves up or consistently take but never offer support.

We usually know deep down what truths we need to accept… perhaps meditate to allow these thoughts to come up. Accepting difficult truths is a big step, and do not push yourself to do anything until you are ready. But, if you decide you are up for it, plan a course of action to resolve what you had been avoiding.

Want more Satya practices? Check out our Satya Guide!

Check out our Top 5 Yoga Equipment and Yoga Mats!

Top 5 Yoga Equipment for Newbies

Top 5 Yoga Mats


Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This page contains affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, may earn me a small commission. Read full privacy policy here.

More Positive Practices

Missed yesterday’s post? Read it here!

Related Positive Practices

Share your Practice

Please comment and share how you decided to practice Satya with yourself today. This can be difficult, but honestly is always the best policy. Always remember, be kind!

Meditation March 2023: Ahimsa (Non-Harming)

Happy Meditation March 16, 2023 – Ahimsa (Non-Harming)

Good Morning Yogis! We are restarting the Limbs of Yoga for our daily positive practices with Ahimsa or non-harming. Our last Ahimsa Day we practiced with a random act of kindness, but today we will focus on practicing non-violence.

Bonus Daily Meditation Challenge

We are in the middle of a bonus Daily Meditation Challenge for March! For Ahimsa day today, my meditation for the day is a Guided Meditation on Non-Violence.

cool shot looking up at branches of pine tree - ahimsa nonviolence nonharming peace Quote: Peace brings with it so many positive emotions that it is worth aiming for in all circumstances. - Estella Eliot
Peace brings with it so many positive emotions that it is worth aiming for in all circumstances. – Estella Eliot

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to actively exercise Ahimsa or non-harming today. Need ideas? It can be big or small. We should strive to exercise non-harming with our thoughts, words and/or actions.

For actions, you can avoid killing a bug you find in the house, and instead use a cup and paper or cardboard to carry outside. Perhaps drive compassionately if you have to drive today. Maybe refrain from letting your temper get the best of you and stay kind throughout a difficult interaction.. this will probably be non-harming in both words and actions. Keep in your mind and try to follow “if you do not have anything nice to say, do not say anything at all.” Or, to practice Ahimsa with our thoughts, try to stay positive today with yourself, and notice and stop yourself from any negative self-talk.

Want more Ahimsa practices? Check out our Ahimsa Guide!

Get today’s Daily Yogi Positive Practice in your inbox – Register for our email list!

Get easy access to our daily practices inspired by the Yoga Sutras right in your inbox

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

More Positive Practices

Missed yesterday’s post? Read it here!

Related Positive Practices

Share your Practice

Please comment and share how you decided to practice Ahimsa today. How did it make you feel? Always remember, be kind!

Upper 4 Limbs of Yoga – Dhyana (Full Meditation): Meditation March 2023

Happy Meditation March 15, 2023 – Dhyana (Full Meditation)

Good Morning Yogis! We are in the middle of a month focused on meditation for March. We typically spend more time practicing the lower limbs, but during meditation months we will take couple days to cover each of the four upper limbs, rather than combining into one.

We already covered Pratyahara or withdrawal of the senses and Dharana or Intense Focus.

Bonus Daily Meditation Challenge

We have a bonus daily meditation challenge for March. Learn about Dharana and try today’s positive practice suggestion or a meditation of your choice!

close-up of center growing striped green leaves - upper limbs of yoga Dhyana full meditation Quote: Meditation is the dissolution of thoughts in eternal awareness or Pure consciousness without objectification, knowing without thinking, merging finitude in infinity. - Voltaire
Meditation is the dissolution of thoughts in eternal awareness or Pure consciousness without objectification, knowing without thinking, merging finitude in infinity. – Voltaire

Dhyana (Full Meditation)

The last three Limbs of YogaDharana, Dhyana, and Samadhi are often referred to as the “innermost quest” and studied together. As we have discussed, the upper limbs build upon all four of the lower limbs, and sequentially upon each other. However, these practices are all meditation focused, and must truly be practiced and understood on your own. Samadhi is basically our goal and will be discussed only occasionally… we are skipping Samadhi this round of through the 8 limbs of Yoga, and jumping right into our meditation month practices tomorrow. Today we will discuss Dhyana and try a Meditation to reach this state.

Dhyana is the 7th Limb of Yoga, and is usually translated as meditation. I prefer to think of Dhyana as full meditation, a bit stronger and more specific than “meditation”. This is typically the goal of meditation, to fully stop our thoughts and have a quiet mind. After withdrawing inside ourselves with Pratyahara and focusing our minds on a single subject with Dharaha, we may reach the level of meditation where our thoughts actually stop. In true Dhyana or true meditation, we typically are not aware of this clear-minded state until we come out of it.

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to try a Dhyana-focused Meditation Practice. You can try our breath-focused meditation again, and then allow your mind to quiet. Or, you can try a guided meditation meant to help bring the state of Dhyana.

Remember this is a practice, and a difficult one.. so be patient with yourself on this journey! I am working on Dhyana.. I usually can focus on one thing with Dharana, but my mind wanders fairly quickly when I try to quiet it for full meditation.

Dhyana Guided Meditation

Our Breath-Focused Meditation – first focus on breath, then allow your mind to quiet.

yogi crimson gray background

Want more on Meditation? Check out our Upper Limbs & Meditation Guide!

Get the Daily Yogi App – Get quick access to
today’s practice and daily pop-up reminders!

More Positive Practices

Missed yesterday’s post? Read it here!

Related Positive Practices

Share your Practice

Please comment and let me know which you tried, and what you thought of this Dhyana exercise! If you have another favorite guided meditation, please share the link! Always remember, be kind!

Upper 4 Limbs of Yoga – Dharana (Intense Focus): Meditation March 2023

Happy Meditation March 14, 2023 – Dharana (Intense Focus)

Good Morning Yogis! We are in the middle of a month focused on meditation for March. We typically spend more time practicing the lower limbs, but during meditation months we will take couple days to cover each of the four upper limbs, rather than combining into one. We covered Pratyahara or withdrawal of the sense yesterday. As we have discussed, the upper limbs build upon all four of the lower limbs, and then sequentially upon each other. These practices are all meditation focused and therefore must truly be attained on your own. Today we will revisit Dharana, and then try a Dharana Guided Meditation or other Meditative Practice.

close-up cool perspective of dark green glass reflective art - upper limbs of yoga dharana meditation intense focus Quote: Wisdom comes with the ability to be still. Just look and listen. No more is needed. - Eckhart Tolle
Wisdom comes with the ability to be still. Just look and listen. No more is needed. – Eckhart Tolle

Bonus Daily Meditation Challenge

We have a bonus daily meditation challenge for March. Try any of our Dharana practices today!

Dharana (Intense Focus)

Nearly all meditation practices you think of are types of Dharana.

Dharana is the 6th Limb of Yoga, and is usually translated as concentration. This comes from the Sanskrit root “dhri” meaning to hold, carry, or maintain. I prefer to think of Dharana as intense focus, a bit stronger than “concentration”. This is typically the second step for meditation – after letting the outside world slip away, we then direct our focus inward. Most of the meditative practices we think of are therefore Dharana practices – see our full list!

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to try a Dharana-focused Meditation Practice. Perhaps try our breath-focused meditation again to prepare for tomorrow’s next level of meditation. Perhaps focus on your breath or body in Shavasana / Corpse Pose after an Asana practice, another meditative practice from our list, try a guided meditation below, or any other method of your own.. whatever feels right to you. We will cover mandalas and flame gazing later!

Dharana or Intense Focus Meditative Practices

Remember this is a practice, and a difficult one.. so be patient with yourself on this journey!

Morning Motivational Meditation (10 minutes)

Evening Sleep/Relaxation Meditation (50 minutes)

Full Night Sleep Meditation (8 hours)

Grounding Meditation (9 minutes)

Body Scanning Guided Meditation (15 minutes)

Loving Kindness Guided Meditation (15 minutes)

Self-Reflective Guided Meditation (15 minutes)

Positive Affirmation Guided Meditation (12 minutes)

Celestial Visualization Guided Meditation (7 minutes)

Manifest Meditations (Power of Attraction) (10 minutes) 

Want more on Meditation? Check out our Upper Limbs & Meditation Guide!

yogi gold gray background

Check out our Top 5 Yoga Mats and Equipment for Newbies!

You may want to try a block, couch pillow, blanket, or bolster in order to help yourself find a comfortable seat for meditation.

Top 5 Yoga Equipment for Newbies

Top 5 Yoga Mats


Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This page contains affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, may earn me a small commission. Read full privacy policy here.

More Positive Practices

Missed yesterday’s post? Read it here!

Related Positive Practices

Share your Practice

Please comment and let me know which you tried, and what you thought of this Dharana exercise! If you have another favorite, then please share the link! Always remember, be kind!

Upper 4 Limbs of Yoga – Pratyahara (Withdrawal of Senses): Meditation March 2023

Happy Meditation March 13, 2023 – Pratyahara (Withdrawal of Senses)

Good Morning Yogis! We have completed our daily positive practices and meditations inspired by the first four Limbs of Yoga, and are back to the Upper Limbs. We are also in the middle of a month focused on meditation for March. We typically spend more time practicing the lower limbs, but during meditation months we will take couple days to cover each of the four upper limbs, rather than combining into one meditation day.

close-up cool perspective of colorful green fragmented reflections of van goh painting from immersive exhibition- upper limbs of yoga pratyahara withdrawal of senses go within peace within Quote: The first half of life is devoted to forming a healthy ego, the second half is going inward and letting go of it. - Carl Jung
The first half of life is devoted to forming a healthy ego, the second half is going inward and letting go of it. – Carl Jung

Bonus Daily Meditation Challenge

We have a bonus daily meditation challenge for March. Today I recommend trying this Pratyahara Guided Meditation perfect for Shavasana after your Asana practice.

Pratyahara (Withdrawal of Senses)

As we have discussed, the upper limbs build upon all four of the previous limbs, and sequentially upon each other. These practices are all meditation focused and therefore must truly be attained on your own. We will take the next few days in our Meditation-focused month for daily practices inspired by the first three Upper Limbs. Today we will revisit the 5th Limb of Yoga – Pratyahara and try a Pratyahara Guided Meditation.

Pratyahara is the 5th Limb of Yoga, and is usually translated as withdrawal of the senses. “Prati” means against or away, and “Ahara” means food or anything we take into ourselves. So, this literally means to stop taking things into ourselves. This is typically the first step for meditation – letting the outside world slip away, and going inside. The point is not about isolating yourself from outside distractions, it is about withdrawing into yourself, and then allowing outside distractions to fade away.

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to try a Pratyahara-focused Meditation Practice. You can try this with Shavasana / corpse pose after an Asana practice, with a guided meditation, or on your own.. whatever feels right to you! Remember this is a practice, and a difficult one.. so be patient with yourself on this journey!

Pratyahara Guided Meditation

Want more on Meditation? Check out our Upper Limbs & Meditation Guide!

yogi green gray background

Get today’s Daily Yogi Positive Practice in your inbox
Register for our email list!

Get easy access to the rest of the meditations in this series in your inbox

More Positive Practices

Missed yesterday’s post? Read it here!

Share your Practice

Please comment and let me know which you tried, and what you thought of this Pratyahara Meditation! If you have another favorite, then please share the link! Always remember, be kind!

Ishvara Pranidhana (Surrender) – Meditation March 2023

Happy Meditation March 10, 2023 – Ishvara Pranidhana (Surrender)

Good Morning Yogis! We are on the last day of this round of daily positive practices from the Niyamas. We first practiced the fifth of the NiyamasIshvara Pranidhana or surrender by working on practicing acceptance rather than upset reactions to a difficult situation. As we discussed in our intro, Ishvara Pranidhana is the most difficult of the Niyamas to understand and practice, but also one of the most rewarding. So, today we will work again on the challenging practice of acceptance in difficult times.

Bonus Daily Meditation Challenge

We are in the middle of a bonus Daily Meditation Challenge for March! For Ishvara Pranidhana Day today, my meditation for the day is a Guided Meditation on Surrender.

close-up buttery yellow flower among green leaves - ishvara pranidhana acceptance surrender Quote: The moment of surrender is not when life is over, it’s when it begins. - Marianne Williamson
The moment of surrender is not when life is over, it’s when it begins. – Marianne Williamson

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to practice acceptance when something bad or less-than-positive happens today. Try a deep breathing exercise when you encounter a problem. If you lose your temper, perhaps try to step outside yourself and see yourself reacting to a difficulty, and ask yourself if your reaction was productive. If it is possible, try seeing the silver lining for potential for growth in a bad situation. If you are practiced in religious faith, perhaps try praying for your own peace, calm, and understanding instead of a solution to a problem you are facing. Again, this is a journey and this particular practice today is one of the most difficult, so be gentle with yourself. If at first you do not succeed, evaluate what your reaction contributed, and try again next time. Treat this as an experiment, and see how you feel later after trying different approaches to problems that arise.

Advanced Yogis who incorporate Ishvara Pranidhana into their lives may begin seeing difficulties as challenges to overcome, and opportunities to practice managing our responses. This is one of the keys of long-lasting happiness, since getting upset often does nothing to help a bad situation and only makes things more difficult for ourselves. Instead, try to stay calm, and do not allow a negative encounter to draw you into negativity. Of course, this is easier said than done! Remember, it is a journey.

Want more Ishvara Pranidhana practices? Check out our Ishvara Pranidhana Guide!

Get today’s Daily Yogi Positive Practice in your inbox
Register for our email list!

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

More Positive Practices

Missed yesterday’s post? Read it here!

Share your Practice

Please comment to share how this exercise impacted you. Feel free to share your successes or your struggles with this challenging practice. Always remember, be kind!