MEDITATION AND HEALTH
By S. M. Jain
Summary
Meditation, though commonly used as a synonym for Dhyana, is actually misleading; awareness is a better term. Meditation is generally confined to codified and ritualized techniques for limited periods, while Dhyana or awareness is inherent and essential in every action and moment of life. Patanjali placed Dhyana seventh in his eight steps of yoga, but it should be first as it is prerequisite for all others. Lord Mahavira's instruction to Gautam encapsulates this: when asked how to walk, sit, speak, eat, and sleep, Mahavira instructed to do all activities carefully and consciously. The word Jayam implies every activity with consciousness and skill. Most problems, including accidents, arise from lack of awareness during activities like driving or cooking. Dhyana is synchronization of mind and body, which is real yoga. Meditation and health are interdependent and mutually reinforcing. Most health problems stem from lack of awareness in life's activities. The enlightened have prescribed a code of conduct including five Anuvratas of non-violence, truth, non-stealing, non-possession, and celibacy, which if followed with awareness, leads to a happy and healthy life. Environmental aspects have not been given due importance; polluted air, water, and soil make good health impossible, and even breathing exercises become harmful. The physical environment affects social environment, and all stresses are environment generated. In Jainism, Dhyana is classified into four categories: Arta, Roudra, Dharma, and Sukla Dhyana. The first two are harmful, while Dharma Dhyana, being in good deeds in thoughts, speech, and mind, is advised for all activities constantly. True Dhyana is an essential ingredient of life, and if adhered to, there is no need for other meditation types.
Conclusion
The document argues that true meditation, or *dhyana*, is not a limited, codified practice but a continuous state of awareness integrated into every action. Its core implication is that most health problems and life failures stem from a lack of this moment-to-moment consciousness, creating a dichotomy between mind and body. The outcome of adopting this pervasive awareness is a mutually reinforcing cycle where health and meditation support each other, eliminating the need for ritualized techniques. However, the text warns that this ideal is unattainable without a symbiotic physical and social environment; pollution and societal stress directly undermine both health and the ability to live consciously. Ultimately, the document suggests that a return to a lifestyle of constant, skillful awareness, as exemplified by ancient codes of conduct, is the only path to a truly happy and healthy existence.