Knowledge Experienced From Meditation
Knowledge that we can gain from our five senses is limited. How could we possibly find the time to learn about everything in our world? For example, we know our smart phone works and works well, but might never have any idea how it operates. Also, our senses by nature are finite: we can try to learn about the hidden realms of the Universe through devices that we create to enhance our senses, like a microscope, telescope, or space probe, but even those have limits. So, in this way, a vast amount of available knowledge in the Universe remains outside of our reach—we are limited to only how much we can experience through the senses. Just ask any quantum physicist!
The wise ones tell us that the only form of true knowing is through direct experience. When, as a child, we burn our finger on a hot stove, we learn through experience what hot means and at least one place where it comes from, so we become careful around it. Or, once we have experienced the joy of being at the beach, we can say we know we like going to the beach. Without the direct experience, it would only be speculation. How does a child know it doesn’t like green beans if it hasn’t tried them?
There is a form of knowledge we can experience, and many believe that the highest goal of human life is to experience it and expand it. A knowledge that is beyond somatic (from the senses or the body) or intellectual—our intuition. It is that feeling that comes from deep within, when you instinctively know that something you are doing is right or wrong. Often you don’t know why you feel a certain way—it’s a hunch.
The benefits of developing one’s intuition include helping to keep us on track by providing guidance and support. It can help us stay focused and motivated, which is especially helpful when we are working towards a goal. Intuition can also help with decision making. When we tune into our intuition, it helps to bypass the rational mind and cut straight to what feels right. This can also be helpful in situations where time is of the essence or when there is a lot at stake.
Intuitive knowledge, sometimes referred to as the sixth sense, is considered extremely important by Amma and other enlightened masters. The only way to come by this form of knowing is through quieting the conscious mind, relaxing, and becoming open to receiving it. One of the best ways to do this is with meditation.
Amma gives us guidance on this. She says, “When thoughts are reduced, power of the mind and its subtlety increases, and it tunes with the Universe. Then, you can see the realms beyond common understanding. When the mind is pure and quiet, it becomes one with the universal mind. That mind is like a mirror—the secrets of the Universe will be revealed there.”
Integrated Amrita Meditation (IAM®) is intended to quiet the mind, allowing you to experience deep relaxation, revealing the intuitive part of the brain. Many students have given testimonials of coming up with answers or ideas that they needed either during the meditation, or in the quiet time just afterwards.
Also, when it comes to gaining knowledge of inner peace, Amma says: “Peace is not a product of an intellectual exercise. It is an inner blossoming that occurs with meditation.”
We invite you to give yourself the opportunity to expand your intuitive capabilities—if you are a regular IAM meditation practitioner already, continue to be open to helpful “downloads.” If you haven’t taken an IAM course, consider making the decision to learn it!
CLICK HERE to view ongoing IAM Meditation Courses offered online.