In Patañjali’s yoga, concentration (Dharana) and meditation (Dhyana) are two different steps, though closely linked.
Dharana: bringing the mind to one point
Concentrating means fixing attention on a single object: the breath, a mantra, a candle flame, a part of the body. The mind wanders again and again, and we bring it back. That going and returning is the practice. It takes effort and will.
Dhyana: when attention flows
When concentration holds without interruption, like oil poured from one vessel to another in a continuous stream, meditation appears. There is no more struggle: attention flows by itself. That is why it is said that meditation is not done, it arises.
What this means in practice
- What we do when we sit to “meditate” is mostly practising concentration. And that’s great.
- Don’t get frustrated when the mind wanders: bringing it back is exactly the exercise.
- With consistency, moments of stillness grow longer and appear on their own.
Known effects of this practice: more calm, better sleep, greater attention and a kinder relationship with our own emotions.
