Lecture by Swami Tattwamayananda. Turning the mind inward and away from the senses forces us to confront our tendencies and impressions. These have been accumulated from innumerable life cycles. When we are able to be fully established in Pratyahara, the mind then becomes our spiritual guide. In ordinary contemplation, we provide a counterfocus for the mind. In Dharana, the mind is held at a point such as the lotus of the heart. Shankara gives a practical suggestion for beginners. Meditate with eyes half-open as if looking at the tip of the nose to avoid falling asleep but not so wide as to let visual objects distract you. Verses: II.54, II.55, III.1
