The ability to control energy is fundamental to the science of yoga. We are beings of energy. Matter, in fact, is merely a projection of underlying energy patterns. The Energisation Exercises help you gain control over your life-force. It would be hard to overstate the value of these exercises, developed by Paramhansa Yogananda specifically for gaining control over this subtle energy (prana). It is the key to success not only in meditation but in everything we do.
Yogananda said that if we were to be stranded on a desert island and could have only one yogic technique, we should choose the Energisation Exercises because through them we could eventually discover the entire science of yoga.
As aspiring yogis, we should learn to see our bodies as the outward expression of elemental energy patterns. Our bodies, our health, our happiness, our very thoughts are determined by the level and direction of our energy.
We should see our whole life as being like an image on a movie screen, simply patterns of light and shade. We have an enormously powerful tool to change ourselves once we grasp the fact that we are merely projections of energy patterns. If we create the patterns in our lives, then it is possible to change those patterns directly. With that realization, we have in hand the secret key to the kingdom of God, for, in reality, all that is needed to find God is to release our identification with false images of who we are.
In order to change something, it is much more effective to control energy, which lies behind matter, than to try to control matter itself. Once a pattern becomes frozen into its outward manifestation, it is much more difficult to change. Isn’t it easier to adjust plans for a house than to move walls once the house is built?
Consider this example. The introduction of computers has totally transformed how the aircraft and auto industries design and construct models for new parts. Formerly, once a new part was designed, a highly skilled craftsman constructed a model of it out of wood, clay or metal. If minor changes were needed, he had to craft the new part again and again until the new design was perfected. This process was repeated for thousands of parts. Now, everything is designed with computer programs that are able to create three-dimensional models on the screen. Parts can be matched to connecting pieces in the computer where everything exists only as patterns of energy. If a physical part is needed, it is created effortlessly by using light sensitive plastic and computer controlled lasers. By working with energy patterns rather than physical models, the design time has been cut from years to months.
Scientists are now looking for materials, such as liquid metal, that can be formed directly into the various pieces required. Imagine an auto parts store that could produce, on demand, any part for any model of car ever made. All the necessary information would exist as energy patterns in a computer’s memory.
We are not all that different from this example. We, too, exist as dynamic changing projections of underlying energy patterns. If we can learn to control our prana and change the underlying patterns sufficiently, we can work miracles.
You have already learned a few simple pranayama (energy control) techniques in earlier lessons. In this lesson you will learn additional techniques to help you become aware of the flow of energy within your body and to give you a greater degree of control over it. Here a just a few of the benefits of these exercises.
For the Body
The value of these techniques is not limited to meditation. Once we can control and harmonize the flow of prana in the body, we will have boundless energy for work, relationships and fun. When tired, we can recharge our body and mind instantaneously. Vibrant health and vitality are possible when our body cells are energized. When injured, we can heal quickly. Does this sound impossible? It wasn’t for Jesus or Yogananda, or other advanced yogis.
Does it mean we will never get ill? Not necessarily, but if we do, we can consciously direct sufficient healing energy to allow us to quickly regain our health.
For the Mind
Energy control allows the mind to focus on the task at hand, whether at work or in meditation. Success is guaranteed when we are able to apply enough energy to overcome any obstacle in our path. Thoughts and moods too are dependent upon our level of energy. When our energy is high, negative moods come only rarely, and if they do appear, we can quickly expel them. By learning to redirect our energy, we discover the secret of quickly overcoming negative habits and attitudes. The laws of magnetism are directly related to the laws of energy and when our energy is high and positive, we attract to ourselves the people and circumstances we need.
For the Soul
Meditation too, depends on energy control. Only when we are calm and vibrant can we easily attain true stillness of mind and openness of heart. Our prayers will then have tremendous power and quickly attract the blessing of God and the masters.
Prayers for others and for the world will be powerful and effective when delivered with concentrated attention and energy.
One time Yogananda and another devotee walked by Rajarsi Janakananda, Yogananda’s most advanced disciple, as he was meditating in the garden. As they were passing, Yogananda cautioned the devotee to be very quiet. When they were out of hearing, he said, “You have no idea what blessings are drawn to this work simply by having one person meditate that deeply.”
