Bhitar Ki Aur

The book "Bhitar Ki Aur" (Towards the Inside) by Acharya Mahapragna, published by Jain Vishva Bharati, is a comprehensive guide to introspection and spiritual development through the practices of Preksha Dhyana (Preksha Meditation).

The core message of the book, as stated in the preface, is that while a door is for entering and leaving, the room within is for staying, resting, and finding peace. The book aims to guide readers on how to "go inside" and "stay inside," suggesting that true happiness and fulfillment are found within oneself.

Acharya Mahapragna emphasizes that this book contains unique techniques not found in other texts on Preksha Dhyana, making it a valuable resource for both practitioners and instructors. He mentions that some of the experiments presented were developed during his own Preksha Dhyana camps.

The book is structured into numerous chapters that delve into various aspects of inner exploration and meditation. Key themes and topics covered include:

• The Nature of Existence: Chapters discuss the importance of self-awareness, the purpose of life, and the different levels of human existence (physical, mental, and energetic/spiritual).
• The Path to the Subtle: The book guides readers from gross (sthula) to subtle (sukshma) realms, highlighting the limitations of sensory perception and the need for developing subtler awareness.
• Preksha Dhyana Techniques: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to explaining various techniques of Preksha Dhyana. This includes different types of visualizations, breath awareness exercises (like Dirghashwas - long breathing), body scanning (Sharir Preksha), awareness of energy centers (Chaitanya Kendras), and the use of mantras like "Arham" and "Mahapran Dhwani."
• Inner Disciplines: The book emphasizes the importance of self-discipline through practices like 'Upasampada' (vows), which include 'Bhavakriya' (conscious action), 'Pratikriya Virati' (non-reactivity), 'Maitri' (friendliness), 'Mitahar' (moderate diet), and 'Mitabhashan' (moderate speech).
• Mind and Consciousness: It explores the nature of the mind, its control, and the development of mental powers. Concepts like introspection, self-observation, and self-transformation are central.
• Energy Centers and Physiology: The text delves into the concept of energy centers (Chaitanya Kendras) in the body, linking them to various physiological functions, endocrine glands, and their impact on mental and emotional states. It discusses the role of colors and sounds in activating these centers.
• The Importance of Breath: Breath is highlighted as a fundamental tool for concentration and inner exploration. Different breathing techniques and their effects are discussed.
• Overcoming Obstacles: The book addresses challenges like stress (tanav), negative emotions, and the development of qualities like courage (abhay), truthfulness, and non-violence.
• Subtle Practices: Advanced techniques such as subtle meditation, visualization of auras (aabhamandal), and the use of specific sounds and mantras are explained.
• Holistic Approach: Acharya Mahapragna integrates scientific understanding with spiritual principles, explaining how practices like meditation can influence neurochemistry and physiological processes.

In essence, "Bhitar Ki Aur" is an encyclopedic manual for anyone seeking to embark on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth through the systematic practices of Preksha Dhyana, aiming to achieve inner peace, mental clarity, and overall well-being. It provides practical guidance and philosophical insights for transforming one's inner world.