What is Nidhidhyāsana (Self-enquiry or Atma vichara)?

It is a quiet and silent sitting.

In Sanskrit, Nidhidhyāsana means Self-enquiry. The one and only immediate and direct way to realize yourSelf. One reaches to the stage of Nidhidhyasana after careful listening (Sravana) and reflection (Manana) on the spiritual wisdom learned and confirmed oneself and from the Guru and Satsangs.

Nidhidhyāsana is not usual, yet another Meditation technique. Most of the meditation techniques that exist in the world, predominantly use the mind to overcome the mind by using the mind, focusing on various objects for concentration. So, these are more “Objective” meditations. But Nidhidhyāsana is Subjective, Self-enquiry where the mind is questioned and directed to its source by disemploying the mind. Nidhidhyāsana roots out mind from its very core thereby liberating one from the cycles of life’s ups & downs.

As beginners, it may be difficult and strenuous in the beginning however, with proper initiation and guidance one can discover the Self reasonably quickly. Then depending on how one settles and soaks in the Self, will decide one’s Self-realization.

When does Nidhidhyāsana happen?

Nidhidhyasana is not for someone who thinks spirituality and self-realization is some kind of recreation. Nidhidhyāsana happens easily to souls who are sincere and has fire to know the Truth.

Nidhyāsana Meaning:

In sanskrit, Nidhi means treasure [You happened in this Existence with the individual experience, that is - “I exist, I am - aliveness”. This is the “Nidhi” - the treasure.]

dhi or dhy* means buddhi or intellect [Anchoring your *intellect* in this Nidhi, the treasure]

āsana means seat or posture [And simply sit in this ãsana]