a wooden yantra on top of a mantel
Meditation & Mindfulness

What Are Yantras & How to Use Them in Your Meditations

Yantras are intricate, geometric designs that have been used in various spiritual traditions, especially within Hinduism and Buddhism, as tools for meditation and concentration. They’re considered sacred and are believed to be filled with spiritual energy.

Related: The History of Spiritual Practices

Understanding Yantras: More Than Meets the Eye

At first glance, yantras might seem like abstract art, but there’s much more beneath the surface. Every yantra is a symbolic representation of aspects of divinity, commonly representing the universe’s creation.

The center point (bindu) is often seen as the focal point of creation and the source of all manifestation. It’s like the silent core of existence from which all life springs and ultimately returns.

What are Yantras — in Simple Terms

Yantra is a Sanskrit word that means “tool” or “instrument”. It is derived from the root word yam, which means “to control or hold”, and the suffix tra, which means “liberation from bondage”.

Yantras are tools for liberation, as they help you transcend the limitations of the mind and access higher states of consciousness.

Yantras are geometrical diagrams that represent the energy fields of specific deities, planets, elements, or concepts. They’re composed of shapes such as triangles, squares, circles, and lotus petals, which have symbolic meanings and correspond to different aspects of reality.

Yantras can also contain mantras, which are sacred sounds or words that invoke the power of the deity or principle associated with the yantra.

Yantras are derived from the Indian Tantric tradition, which is a philosophy that integrates various sciences, such as psychology, mathematics, Ayurveda, and astrology.

Tantra views the universe as a manifestation of energy, and yantras are ways to harness and harmonize that energy. Yantras can be used for various purposes, such as worship, meditation, protection, healing, attraction, or transformation.

Related: Elevate Your Reiki Rituals: Discover the Power of Reiki Crystals

original artwork representing a sri yantra, what are yantras

How do Yantras Work?

Yantras work by creating a resonance between your mind and the energy of the yantra.

By meditating on a yantra, you align your thoughts, emotions, and actions with the vibration of the yantra, and thereby attract the qualities and benefits of the yantra into your life.

Yantras also work by stimulating your visual cortex, which is the part of your brain that processes visual information. By gazing at a yantra, you activate your visual cortex and enhance your perception, memory, and creativity.

Some believe yantras can also stimulate your pineal gland, which is the seat of your intuition and spiritual awareness. And that by activating your pineal gland, you can open your third eye chakra and access higher dimensions of reality.

Yantras are not just static images, but dynamic patterns of energy that can change and evolve according to your intention, focus, and interaction.

It’s like yantras are alive, and they can communicate with you and guide you on your spiritual journey. They’re a reminder of the interconnectedness of all things and can be used as powerful tools for contemplation.

kali yantra, what are yantras

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Yantra Meditation

  1. Choose your yantra based on what you wish to focus on or bring into your life.
  2. Place the yantra at eye level in a clean, sacred space.
  3. Sit comfortably at a distance where the yantra is fully visible.
  4. Start with a few deep breaths to center yourself.
  5. Gaze softly at the center point, allowing your vision to take in the entire yantra.
  6. If your mind wanders, gently bring it back to the yantra’s center.
  7. Meditate for as long as you feel comfortable, starting with a few minutes and increasing gradually.

Examples of Yantras

  • Sri yantra, one of the most famous yantras, to attract material and spiritual wealth, peace, and harmony
  • Lakshmi yantra to attract wealth and prosperity, either materially or spiritually
  • Kali yantra for strength and courage during transitions
  • Saraswati yantra for creative inspiration
  • Ganesha yantra to remove obstacles

Yantras Today: From Temples to Tech

Yantras have found a new resurgence in the age of technology. Digital artists and programmers are creating interactive yantras, and they’re being used in therapeutic settings to help people find focus and reduce stress.

Final Thoughts: The Power of Yantras in Our Lives

Yantras are more than just symbols; they’re believed to be living entities with their own energy. By understanding and respecting their cultural and spiritual significance, we can use them as a bridge to deeper knowledge and awareness. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or just starting, incorporating yantras into your practice can add a rich layer to your spiritual journey.

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