Maha Shivratri is a Hindu festival celebrated annually to honor Lord Shiva, one of the primary deities in the Hindu religion. The festival falls on the 14th day of the dark half of the month of Phalguna (February-March) in the Hindu calendar.
Some blissful Teachings of Shiva
The word ‘Maha’ means great, and ‘Ratri’ means night. Hence, Maha Shivratri is a festival that celebrates the great night of Lord Shiva. There are many beliefs and legends associated with this festival.
One belief is that Lord Shiva got married to Goddess Parvati on this day. Another legend says that Lord Shiva performed the Tandava, a divine dance that signifies creation, preservation, and destruction of the universe, on this day. Devotees of Lord Shiva fast on this day, offer prayers and perform rituals to seek his blessings.
Maha Shivratri is an important festival for the Shaiva sect of Hinduism, and it is celebrated with great enthusiasm in many parts of India and Nepal. It is believed that by observing the fast and offering prayers to Lord Shiva on this day, one can attain spiritual and material blessings.
Mahashivratri importance in Yoga
On Mahashivratri, yogis and spiritual seekers around the world observe this night as a time for deep meditation, self-reflection, and spiritual awakening. Many yogis and spiritual practitioners believe that the energy of the universe is more conducive to meditation and spiritual practices on this night, and that one can attain greater spiritual benefits by meditating and performing spiritual practices on this day.
In the practice of yoga, Lord Shiva is considered the ultimate yogi and the embodiment of the highest states of consciousness. By invoking his presence and energy through prayer, chanting, and meditation, practitioners seek to deepen their connection to the divine and attain higher states of consciousness.
Therefore, Mahashivratri holds great importance in the practice of yoga as a time for spiritual reflection and inner transformation, and it is an opportunity to deepen one’s connection with the divine and the universe.
How to meditate during Mahashivratri
Meditation during Mahashivratri can be a powerful practice for spiritual seekers and yoga practitioners to deepen their connection with Lord Shiva and attain higher states of consciousness. Here are some steps to help you meditate during Mahashivratri:
- Choose a quiet and peaceful place where you will not be disturbed during your meditation practice.
- Sit comfortably in a cross-legged position or on a chair, with your spine straight and your hands resting on your knees.
- Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths, letting go of any tension or distractions.
- Visualize Lord Shiva in your mind’s eye, and invoke his presence by chanting his name or mantra.
- Focus your attention on your breath, and let your mind become still and quiet.
- As you continue to meditate, allow your awareness to expand beyond your body and mind, and connect with the universal energy of Lord Shiva.
- If your mind starts to wander or become distracted, gently bring your attention back to your breath and your visualization of Lord Shiva.
- Continue your meditation practice for as long as feels comfortable for you, whether it is for a few minutes or for a longer period.
- When you are ready to end your meditation, slowly bring your awareness back to your body and your surroundings, and take a few deep breaths before opening your eyes.
Remember, the practice of meditation is a personal journey, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Therefore, feel free to adapt this practice to your own needs and preferences. The most important thing is to approach your meditation practice with an open heart and a sincere intention to deepen your connection with Lord Shiva and the universe.