Sukshma Vidyas in Yoga

BY Arora Indu4 min read • May 4, 2018

What are the practices that lead to deeper states of mind, to higher states of consciousness? These practices are the heart of Yoga and lead us to the state of Yoga itself.

What are Sukshma Vidyas

Sukshma means delicate, fine, precise, small, subtle, thin, little, deep, nano, minute, tiny, keen, intangible, supreme and all pervading. The term Vidya comes from the root "vid" which means- to know. If we bring these two together, Sukshma Vidyas means the subtle practices which helps us to attain the subtle and deep states of consciousness, awaken dormant areas of the brain allowing us to access the clearer and more stable states of mind and Yoga itself.

The states of Yoga that the texts mention are attained by utilizing tools which are as subtle as the state itself. In order to awaken the awareness to the subtlety of mind, emotions and energy, one must adapt tools that prepare the body, breath and mind to tune into the subtle body.

The language of the physical body is understood and reprogrammed using the physical tools like dinacharya, asana and shatkriyas.

The language of the subtle body is understood and recalibrate using the the subtle tools - sukshma vidyas.

Examples of Sukshma Vidyas

Practices like Pranayama, Mantra, Mudra, Marmani, Dhyana and Yoga Nidra are some of the Sukshma Vidyas of Yoga.

How to practice

Each of these practices as stated above must be studied in either of these two ways

• From an experienced (not just educated) practitioner who displays exemplary attitude on how to live Yoga and not just talk about it
• From your own experiences as a result of every day, consistent, dedicated, grounded practice (sadhana)

And must not be studied (solely) from

• Books and Blogs
• Videos
• Online programs
• Free Resources
• Teachers who have not practiced any or most part of it and do not display Yoga in their speech, actions and responses

When to practice Sukshma Vidyas

• Before/after the physical practices as suggested by mentor/guide/ experienced teacher based on your constitution (prakruti and vikruti), capacity, season and nature of practice itself
• Any time is a good time as a beginner
• Avoid the use of any mind altering substances during, before or after the practice to enhance the practice. Allow the practice to work for you instead of creating an illusion of the results