Vital Self Meditation, Journey to the inner Self

In this deep dive, we explore a book called Vital Self Meditation by Wacom Noosh. It offers a unique perspective on meditation beyond mindfulness techniques. Noosh highlights how even big corporations like SAP and Amazon are embracing meditation for their employees' well-being. The book delves into Vedic roots and blends ancient wisdom with modern science. It emphasizes the use of mantras and their specific purpose. Noosh explains the concept of pisara agni, the inner fire that helps process experiences and emotions. VSM techniques stoke this fire for balance and well-being. Noosh also acknowledges potential downsides to mindfulness practices and emphasizes the importance of choosing the right practice and seeking guidance. He explores the philosophical and spiritual side of meditation, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all things. The book shares inspiring stories of meditation's transformative power and how it can positively impact lives. Hey everyone, and welcome to our deep dive today. We're going to be exploring meditation, but not just in the typical way. We're diving into a book called Vital Self Meditation by Wacom Noosh. He's a meditation teacher who blends ancient Vedic wisdom with modern science. Interesting. Now, you might be thinking, another book on meditation, but trust me, this one offers a really unique perspective that goes beyond just the usual mindfulness techniques, and it focuses on a specific method called Vital Self Meditation, or VSM. I see. So what I found really fascinating right off the bat is that Noosh highlights how even giant corporations are embracing meditation these days. Oh, wow. I'm talking about companies like SAP, which is a huge software company. Yeah. They've been offering meditation to their employees since 2013. And even Amazon, known for its demanding work environment, right? Definitely. Has introduced these things called Zen Booths for stressed out warehouse workers. I've heard about those. Yeah. It's a pretty striking example of how the corporate world is really starting to recognize the importance of mental well-being. It seems like mindfulness isn't just like a fringe benefit anymore. It's really being seen as a valuable tool for improving focus and productivity and just overall employee well-being. And it's not just limited to the tech industry either. Right. Noosh points out this really interesting example of Minster Osnabrück Airport, which adopted a Zen strategy in its rebranding. They focused on creating a more relaxed and rejuvenating travel experience for passengers. Wow. So even bustling airports are tapping into this. It makes you wonder where else we're encountering mindfulness without even realizing it. Right. Absolutely. But let's get to the heart of the book here. Vital Self Meditation. What makes this different from the mindfulness practices we often hear about? Well, Noosh dives deep into the Vedic roots of meditation, blending ancient philosophy with modern neuroscience. He's not just talking about mindfulness as like a trendy stress reduction tool. He's drawing on this really rich tradition of ancient wisdom and backing it up with scientific evidence to really make a case for VSM as like a powerful technique for personal transformation. Okay. So we've got this historical and scientific depth, but what are like the actual nuts and bolts of VSM? One of the key elements is the use of mantras. Now, mantras are often misunderstood, reduced to just like mere chants or affirmations. But Noosh emphasizes that they're much more than that. He even uses this analogy that mantras are like carefully chosen medicine. You wouldn't take aspirin for diarrhea. Okay. So you need to use the right mantra for the right purpose. That's a good point. He actually shares a really interesting anecdote about hearing Christmas music on a flight to Delhi. It made him realize how crucial it is to approach mantras with understanding and respect for their traditional context. Yeah. That's a great illustration of how cultural sensitivity and a deep appreciation for the tradition are really vital when working with mantras. They're not just sounds. They carry a specific energy and intention. But Noosh doesn't just rely on ancient wisdom. He also delves into the science behind meditation's benefits. Right. He talks about how meditation impacts brain regions like the prefrontal cortex and limbic system, affecting things like attention and emotional regulation and even cell regeneration. He even brings up these concepts of piluani, soma and amrita, which he explains as relating to cellular health and well-being in the Vedic tradition. Think of it like this. You know how some days you can eat anything and other days your stomach is easily upset? Yeah. Piluani is kind of like that. But for your mind and body, it's this subtle energy that governs how we process experiences and emotions. When piluani is balanced, we feel clear-headed and resilient. But when it's out of whack, it can lead to light, mental fog, anxiety and even physical issues. So it's like this internal digestifier for our mental and emotional well-being. Exactly. And VSM helps to keep that fire burning brightly. That's a good way to put it. But before we dive deeper into the specifics of VSM, Noosh throws in this really intriguing concept called the 1% effect. The 1% effect. This stems from research done in the 1970s, which showed a decrease in crime rates in cities where just 1% of the population practiced meditation. Oh, wow. It raises the question, could there be a ripple effect from individual meditation practice that extends to the wider community? What other social issues could this be applied to? That really makes you think about the potential collective benefits. If more people embraced meditation. That's a fascinating thought. But Noosh doesn't just focus on the larger societal impact, he also brings it back to the personal level, exploring how VSM helps us deal with the emotional rollercoaster of modern life. And let's face it, we're living in a time of unprecedented stress and information overload. Yeah, that's true. It's no wonder so many people are feeling anxious and burnt out. Noosh seems to understand that deeply. He does. He talks about how these anxieties often stem from an imbalance in our pisara agni. He keeps circling back to this concept, so I'm guessing it's pretty central to his whole approach. Can you break down what he means by pisara agni in a way that's easy to grasp? He explains that pisara means container and agni means fire in the Vedic tradition. So pisara agni is like this inner fire that helps us process not just food, but also our experiences and emotions. Think of it as the engine that converts everything we take in, both physically and mentally, into energy and nourishment. When this fire is balanced, we feel energized, focused, and emotionally stable. So if it's like an engine, what happens when our pisara agni isn't running smoothly? Well, just like a neglected engine, it can start to sputter and cause problems. We might experience digestive issues, brain fog anxiety, or even burnout. Noosh points out that stress, a poor diet, negative thoughts, and even environmental toxins can all contribute to weakening our pisara agni. That's a pretty holistic perspective, recognizing how our mind, body, and environment are all interconnected. And it makes me curious about how VSM specifically addresses this. Noosh explains that the mantras and breathing techniques used in VSM are designed to stoke that inner fire. They act like fuel and oxygen, helping us process experiences and emotions more efficiently. He even compares specific mantras to different types of medicine, each one tailored to address a particular imbalance or need. Okay, so VSM is this tailored approach to balancing our inner fire. But earlier, you mentioned that he also acknowledges potential downsides to certain mindfulness practices. That seems important to address, especially since mindfulness is often presented as a universal good. It's a crucial point. Noosh brings up Willoughby Britton's research, which suggests that certain mindfulness techniques can actually have negative effects on some people. While he doesn't go into specifics in this section, he emphasizes the importance of choosing a practice that's right for you and seeking guidance from an experienced teacher, especially if you're new to meditation. It's a reminder that we need to be discerning and not just jump on the latest mindfulness bandwagon. Absolutely. But let's shift gears a bit. We've talked about the practical, emotional benefits, but Noosh also delves into the more philosophical, even spiritual side of meditation, right? He does. He explores how VSM can help us connect with a deeper sense of meaning and purpose in life, going beyond just material success or fleeting happiness. He taps into this ancient Vedic concept called Tat Tivam Asi That Thou Art, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things. That sounds pretty profound. How does he make such an abstract concept relatable? He uses this beautiful analogy of a garden. Instead of being solely fixated on the end result, the fruit, he encourages us to appreciate the entire process of cultivating and nurturing the garden. It's about finding joy in the journey itself, in the act of tending to something and watching it grow. It's a great message, especially in our culture that often glorifies achievement and overlooks the beauty of the process. I agree. But he also shares that story about two frogs that fall into a bucket of milk. Okay. Two frogs in a bucket of milk. Now I'm intrigued. So one frog gives up and drowns, but the other keeps swimming, churning the milk into butter and eventually escaping. It's a classic tale of resilience and the importance of not giving up hope, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. And Nush connects it beautifully to the challenges of modern life, reminding us that we all have that inner strength to overcome adversity if we just keep swimming, so to speak. I love that. He then goes on to compare meditation to scuba diving. Scuba diving. That's an interesting analogy. He explains that just like scuba diving requires planning and preparation and a willingness to explore the unknown depths, meditation also requires a commitment to diving deep into our own consciousness. It's about venturing into those uncharted waters within ourselves and discovering the hidden treasures that lie beneath the surface. And he doesn't just leave it as a theoretical concept. He shares some really inspiring examples of how meditation has positively impacted people's lives, drawing on testimonials from those who have experienced its transformative power firsthand. These stories really help us connect with the human element of the practice and see how it can make a tangible difference in people's lives. So we've got this historical foundation, scientific evidence, and even personal stories to support the power of meditation. But what does VSM actually look like in practice? What are the core elements of the technique itself? Well, Nush doesn't give away all the secrets in the book. He mentions that VSM involves using specific mantras, breathing techniques, and visualizations, but he keeps the detailed instructions close to the vest, so to speak. He hints at these techniques throughout the book, but emphasizes that they are best learned in person from a qualified instructor. So it's a structured technique with specific elements designed to guide you towards a deeper experience. It is. And just to leave us with a final thought-provoking image, before we dive deeper into VSM, he shares a wonderful anecdote about a Zen master. Ah, Zen masters. They always have a way of cutting through the noise and pointing us towards the essence of things. The seekers approach the Zen master, eager to learn the secret to his happiness and contentment, and his response is incredibly simple. He says, when I lie down, I lie down. When I get up, I get up. When I walk, I walk. And when I eat, I eat. The seekers are confused, because they do all those things too, but they're not happy. Right. They're missing the point, which is that the master is highlighting the importance of being fully present in each action. Rather than letting the mind wander to the past or future, it's about bringing our full attention to the present moment, to the simple act of being alive. Exactly. And Noosh uses this anecdote to emphasize the importance of cultivating that same present moment awareness in our own lives. He reminds us that happiness and fulfillment are not found in chasing external achievements, but in embracing the richness of the present experience. And with that, we've just scratched the surface of what Noosh offers in Vital Self Meditation. There's a lot more to explore, especially the details of VSM itself, and how it can help us navigate the challenges of modern life. It seems like Noosh is really advocating for a conscious shift in how we relate to our thoughts, recognizing them as powerful forces that can shape our reality. He's presenting VSM as more than just a relaxation technique. It's a path to transformation and self-discovery. It's definitely a deep dive into the potential of meditation, but he doesn't just stay in the abstract realm of self-discovery. He brings it back to the concrete challenges we face in the modern world, particularly the emotional turmoil that's become almost commonplace. You're constantly bombarded with information and demands, and it's really taking a toll on our mental and emotional well-being. It's no wonder so many people are seeking ways to find inner peace and resilience. Noosh seems to understand that deeply. He does. He talks about how these anxieties often stem from an imbalance in our Pithar Agni. He keeps circling back to this concept, so I'm guessing it's pretty central to his whole approach. Can you break down what he means by Pithar Agni in a way that's easy to grasp? He explains that Pithar means container, and Agni means fire in the Vedic tradition, so Pithar Agni is like this inner fire that helps us process not just food, but also our experiences and emotions. Think of it as the engine that converts everything we take in, both physically and mentally, into energy and nourishment. When this fire is balanced, we feel energized, focused, and emotionally stable. So if it's like an engine, what happens when our Pithar Agni isn't running smoothly? Well, just like a neglected engine, it can start to sputter and cause problems. We might experience digestive issues, brain fog, anxiety, or even burnout. Noosh points out that stress, a poor diet, negative thoughts, and even environmental toxins can all contribute to weakening our Pithar Agni. That's a pretty holistic perspective, recognizing how our mind, body, and environment are all interconnected, and it makes me curious about how VSM specifically addresses this. Noosh explains that the mantras and breathing techniques used in VSM are designed to stoke that inner fire. They act like fuel and oxygen, helping us process experiences and emotions more efficiently. I see. He even compares specific mantras to different types of medicine, each one tailored to address a particular imbalance or need. Okay, so VSM is this tailored approach to balancing our inner fire. You got it. But earlier, you mentioned that he also acknowledges potential downsides to certain mindfulness practices. That seems important to address, especially since mindfulness is often presented as a universal good. It's a crucial point. Noosh brings up Willoughby Britton's research, which suggests that certain mindfulness techniques can actually have negative effects on some people. While he doesn't go into specifics in this section, he emphasizes the importance of choosing a practice that's right for you, and seeking guidance from an experienced teacher, especially if you're new to meditation. It's a reminder that we need to be discerning, and not just jump on the latest mindfulness bandwagon. Absolutely. But let's shift gears a bit. Okay. We've talked about the practical emotional benefits, but Noosh also delves into the more philosophical, even spiritual side of meditation, right? He does. He explores how VSM can help us connect with a deeper sense of meaning and purpose in life, going beyond just material success or fleeting happiness. He taps into this ancient Vedic concept called Tattvamasi, that thou art, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things. That sounds pretty profound. How does he make such an abstract concept relatable? He uses this beautiful analogy of a garden. Instead of being solely fixated on the end result, the fruit, he encourages us to appreciate the entire process of cultivating and nurturing the garden. It's about finding joy in the journey itself, in the act of tending to something and watching it grow. It's a great message, especially in our culture that often glorifies achievement, and overlooks the beauty of the process, but he also shares that story about two frogs that fall into a bucket of milk. Okay. Two frogs in a bucket of milk. Now I'm intrigued. Tell me more. So one frog gives up and drowns, but the other keeps swimming, churning the milk into butter and eventually escaping. It's a classic tale of resilience and the importance of not giving up hope, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. And Nish connects it beautifully to the challenges of modern life, reminding us that we all have that inner strength to overcome adversity if we just keep swimming, so to speak. I love that. He then goes on to compare meditation to scuba diving. Scuba diving. That's an interesting analogy. What's he getting at there? He explains that just like scuba diving requires planning and preparation and a willingness to explore the unknown depths, meditation also requires a commitment to diving deep into our own consciousness. It's about venturing into those uncharted waters within ourselves and discovering the hidden treasures that lie beneath the surface. And he doesn't just leave it as a theoretical concept. He shares some really inspiring examples of how meditation has positively impacted people's lives, drawing on testimonials from those who have experienced its transformative power firsthand. These stories really help us connect with the human element of the practice and see how it can make a tangible difference in people's lives. So we've got this historical foundation, scientific evidence, and even personal stories to support the power of meditation. But what does it actually look like to practice VSM? What are the core elements of the technique itself? Well, Noosh doesn't give away all the secrets in the book. He mentions that VSM involves using specific mantras, breathing techniques, and visualizations. But he keeps the detailed instructions close to the vest, so to speak. He hints at these techniques throughout the book, but emphasizes that they're best learned in person from a qualified instructor. It makes sense that he wouldn't reveal the full technique in the book. It's like learning a martial art or a musical instrument. You need a teacher to guide you and correct your form as you develop the skills. But he does share a really insightful anecdote about a Zen master, which seems to shed light on a core principle of VSM. Ah, Zen masters. They always have a way of cutting through the noise and pointing us towards the essence of things. What wisdom does this Zen master impart? Some seekers approach the Zen master asking him for the secret to his happiness. His response is incredibly simple. He says, when I lie down, I lie down. When I get up, I get up. When I walk, I walk. And when I eat, I eat. Wow. The seekers are puzzled because they do all those things too, but they don't experience the same contentment. Right. They're missing the point, which is that the master is highlighting the importance of being fully present in each moment, regardless of the activity. It's not about what we're doing, but about how we're doing it. Now she uses this story to highlight the power of cultivating present moment awareness, something that VSM aims to cultivate. It's a reminder that happiness and fulfillment are not found in some distant future goal, but in the richness of the present experience. And that's something that VSM helps us tap into, the ability to fully inhabit our lives moment by moment. It sounds like VSM is as much about a shift in perspective as it is about a specific technique. Exactly. It's about cultivating a way of being in the world, a way of being present, grounded and connected to our inner selves. And that's something that can have a profound impact on how we experience life, how we navigate challenges and how we connect with others. So VSM is more than just a stress reduction technique. It's a path to personal growth, a way to tap into a deeper level of meaning and purpose and a practice for cultivating greater awareness and passion and resilience in our lives. It feels like we're really getting a sense of how VSM is more than just sitting on a cushion and chanting, you know? Yeah. It's about integrating these principles into like how we live and think and even react to the world around us. And I wish really emphasizes that point throughout the book. He suggests that by practicing VSM, we can access this deeper level of well-being that extends beyond the meditation cushion and permeates all aspects of our lives. So it's not about escaping reality, but about transforming our experience of it. Exactly. He even touches upon this concept of Jivan Mukti, which he describes as a state of liberation or enlightenment that can be achieved while still living in a physical body. It's about embodying that sense of peace, clarity, and purpose in our everyday lives. That's a pretty bold claim, but he also acknowledges that meditation isn't always easy, right? It's not all bliss and rainbows. There are bound to be challenges along the way. He's very honest about that. He talks about how meditation can sometimes bring up uncomfortable emotions or unresolved issues from the past, and he stresses that navigating those challenges with courage and compassion is a crucial part of the process. He also points out that having a qualified teacher and a supportive community can be invaluable, especially when facing those difficult moments. It makes sense that having guidance and support can make a big difference, especially when venturing into unfamiliar territory within ourselves. It's about recognizing that we don't have to do this alone. There's wisdom in seeking support from those who have walked the path before us. And he reminds us that meditation is not about achieving some perfect state of mind, but about embracing the journey with all its ups and downs. It's a lifelong practice, a process of continuous unfolding, not a destination to be reached. He encourages readers to approach their meditation practice with patience, curiosity, and even a sense of humor. It's not about being hard on ourselves, but about meeting ourselves with kindness and understanding even when we stumble. That's a great reminder. We're all human, and we're bound to make mistakes along the way. It's about learning from those missteps and continuing to move forward with a spirit of openness and acceptance. But we've talked a lot about the benefits and challenges. What about the specifics of the VSM technique does he offer any concrete guidance for those who are new to meditation? He provides a basic framework, but as I mentioned earlier, he doesn't lay out the full technique in the book. He emphasizes that it's best learned in person from a qualified instructor. He does, however, explain that VSM involves three main components, Dharana, Dhyana, and Samadhi. Those are Sanskrit terms that are often used in yogic philosophy. But how does he define them in the context of VSM? He explains that Dharana refers to the initial stage of focusing the mind on a particular object like the breath or a mantra. It's about developing the ability to concentrate and to bring the mind back to the chosen object whenever it wanders. Dhyana is the next stage, characterized by a deeper state of absorption in the object of meditation. It's like moving from a state of focused attention to a state of effortless flow where the mind becomes completely immersed in the experience. And the Samadhi is like the ultimate goal of meditation, a state of transcendent awareness with a sense of separation between the meditators. And the object of meditation dissolves to a state of profound unity and bliss. So it's a progression from focus to absorption to transcendence. But how do you actually move through these stages? What are the practical tools or techniques involved in VSM? As I said, he doesn't reveal all the specifics in the book, but he does mention that VSM involves using specific mantras, breathing techniques, and visualizations. The mantras are carefully chosen sounds that resonate with different energy centers of the body, helping to calm and focus the mind. The breathing techniques regulate the flow of prana or life force energy, which can have a profound effect on our physical, mental, and emotional state. And the visualizations help to create like a positive and supportive inner environment, allowing us to access deeper levels of awareness. It sounds like a very comprehensive approach, combining these different elements to create a powerful and transformative experience. It is. And while he doesn't go into detail about the specific techniques, he does emphasize the importance of daily practice and of creating a supportive environment for meditation. So it's about creating a space and time in our lives where we can dedicate ourselves to this inner work, to cultivating greater awareness, clarity, and peace of mind. Exactly. And it's not just about sitting in formal meditation. He also encourages us to integrate mindfulness into our daily lives, to bring that awareness and presence to everything we do, whether it's eating, walking, working, or interacting with others. It's about making mindfulness a way of life, not just a compartmentalized practice. Right. It's about cultivating that sense of presence and awareness as a constant companion throughout the day. But let's be realistic, maintaining a regular meditation practice in our busy world can be challenging. There are always distractions, demands on our time, and a million things vying for our attention. How does Nosh address that? He acknowledges those challenges and offers some practical advice. He encourages readers to start small, even if it's just a few minutes each day, and to gradually increase their meditation time as they feel more comfortable. He also emphasizes the importance of finding a time and place where they can practice without distractions, and of making meditation a non-negotiable part of their routine, just like brushing their teeth or taking a shower. It's about making meditation a priority, not just something we squeeze in when we have a spare moment. He also suggests finding a meditation buddy or joining a group for support and accountability. Finding that sense of community can make a big difference, especially when we're facing those inevitable moments of resistance or doubt. It's a reminder that we don't have to do this alone. There's strength and support in connecting with others who are on the same path. And he stresses the importance of finding a qualified teacher who can provide guidance and personalized instruction, especially for those who are new to meditation. It's about recognizing that there's a lot of wisdom and experience that can be passed down from teacher to student. It's not just about reading a book or watching a video. It's about finding someone who can help us navigate the path with skill and compassion. Absolutely. Nush emphasizes that the teacher-student relationship is an integral part of the VSM tradition. So far, we've covered a lot of ground with VSM, its origins, its benefits, the challenges, and even some hints about the technique itself, but I'm curious to hear more about what Nish has to say about the power of mandras. You mentioned earlier that he views them as more than just soothing sounds. He does. He has a really interesting perspective on mantras. He even compares them to carefully chosen medicine, saying that just like you wouldn't take aspirin for diarrhea, you need to use the right mantra for the right purpose. That's a great analogy. It emphasizes that there's a specific intention and energy behind each mantra. Exactly. He explains that mantras are not just words, but vibrational frequencies that can have profound effects on our energy and consciousness. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the meaning and purpose of a mantra before using it, and of chanting it with clear intention and devotion. It's not just about mindlessly repeating a sound. It's about aligning our energy with the vibration of the mantra to create a specific shift within ourselves. Right. It's fascinating how he blends this ancient practice with the modern scientific understanding of energy and vibration. He does a great job of bridging those two worlds, and he also stresses the importance of receiving a mantra from a qualified teacher who can guide you in his natural, proper use of pronunciation. It's not something to be taken lightly or approached haphazardly. So this is lineage of transmission, a respect for the tradition and the power of these ancient sounds. Absolutely. It's about approaching mantras with reverence and understanding, recognizing their potential to transform our consciousness and connect us with a deeper level of awareness. Well, this deep dive into vital self-meditation has certainly given us a lot to ponder. Noosh offers such a rich and multifaceted approach to meditation, weaving together ancient wisdom, modern science, and personal experience. He doesn't shy away from addressing the challenges of meditation, but encourages us to approach those challenges with patience, compassion, and a sense of humor. It's a reminder that the journey of self-discovery isn't always easy, but it's a journey worth taking. And VSM offers a really compelling path for those seeking to cultivate greater peace, clarity, and purpose in their lives. Thank you for joining us on this deep dive into vital self-meditation. We hope you found it insightful and inspiring. And as Noosh asks, if our thoughts shape our reality, what kind of reality are you creating with your thoughts? Until next time, keep exploring, keep learning, and keep diving deep.