Technique one of Shiva´s 112 Meditation Techniques
The first Meditation Technique in the Vigjhan Bhairava Tantra, also known as Shiva´s 112 Meditation Techniques is about watching the breath.
It is said that Buddha used this technique to become aware of his true identity. Remember that all meditation techniques are means to clear and overcome obstacles that are stopping us from realizing our real being. The techniques themselves are mostly about concentration and observation which leads to freedom from thoughts and distractions. By pacifying the mind waves, the mind-stuff (chitta) becomes still and all the ripples and waves on the lake of the chitta subside. This results in a clear perception of what lies beyond the mind and its modifications—the Self or the Soul of man – that which is termed as Atman in Sanskrit. When we overcome the obstacles in the mind, we find unity within us and a blissful radiance takes over. This is our true nature.
Here is the first technique:
Radiant one, this experience may dawn between two breaths. After breath comes in (down) and just before turning up (out) — the beneficence.
This means: Focus on the momentary pause between two breaths. Feel it.
When we breathe in there is a subtle pause of the breath. At some point the incoming breath stops and turns. After that stop and turn it becomes the outgoing breath. Again the outgoing breath stops at some point, turns, and becomes the ingoing breath again. The first technique is about these two subtle turning points. Try to become aware of the breath and especially of these two points. The point of the incoming breath turning into the outgoing breath and the second point of the outgoing breath turning into the incoming breath. When the breath turns, the mind becomes still. Exactly at these two points, there is no movement in breathing and when breathing stops, the mind also stops. So focus on these two points and become aware of this subtle space of emptiness. By practicing this meditation, you will become aware of the observer itself. The vast space beyond mind and body.
It is best to practice this meditation in a sitting position. Keep the spine erect and find a comfortable position either sitting on the floor, in a chair, or on your couch. It is easier to keep the mind focused when the spine is kept in a straight line. You can also try to do the meditation lying down but often we tend to fall asleep or drift away when we do this meditation in a horizontal position.
At first, it might be difficult to become aware of the two turning points. Maybe one of them is easier to observe or maybe the pauses are so subtle and short that we miss them. With practice, the pauses will become easier to catch and they even become longer. Don´t give up too soon. Everything needs practice, patience, and perseverance.
It is said that this breath meditation is amongst the easiest and quickest techniques to overcome the turbulences of the mind. A clear and calm mind that is under our conscious control is a wonderful tool that enables us to live a harmonious, blissful, and successful life. Become a conscious observer and take control of your mind to feel the true bliss that lies dormant within. Use the first technique to explore your own Buddhahood and become a light for yourself and others.