Title : Experiences of light and person transformation in practitioners of yoga & meditation
Abstract:
Yoga and Meditation practitioners on the path to realization, have numerous spiritual experiences. Such experiences leave positive impact on the experiencer, usually by bringing about changes in their thinking and lifestyles as reflected in leading transformed and happier lives. Qualitative data using semi-structured interview method from actual subjects and from published literary sources was collected from 31 practitioners following different spiritual traditions. After analyzing the data using thematic analysis, the experiences of 'light' with correlates in philosophical truths have been segregated and presented. Kaivalya Upanishad says that, ‘I am of the form of Jyotis (light) and of the form of happiness’. Another popular quote is, ‘lead me from darkness to light’ which is generally understood as ‘lead me from ignorance to knowledge’. But the spiritual experiences of light presented in this study indicated there is more ‘light’ to it! The numerous experiences of the subjects of this study regarding the various hues and shades of light were examined in light of the physical and psychological changes that were brought forth in them. The study findings challenge the perception of light as a mere symbolic construct, proposing it as a conduit for uncovering microcosmic and macrocosmic truths that catalyze profound personal transformations. In essence, the study asserts that the journey from darkness to light encompasses a profound metamorphosis, illuminating the path to self- realization and holistic person transformation.
