Auto-suggestion during practice sessions

We are all subject to the influence of symbols. Symbols convey meanings. The entire world is hypnotised through the power of meanings. We are continuously being programmed, and we constantly programme ourselves as well. These programmes accompany us throughout our lives.

Parents often say to their children, “Do not run, you will fall down.” To a child, a parent is almost like God on Earth. They feel a profound connection with the one who gave them life, especially with their mother, and are continually hypnotised by their parents and those around them.  Let’s consider another example: I sense weakness in my body. Why has this weakness arisen? Because I allowed this possibility. This is a form of self-programming.

As we walk down the street, we are influenced by everything around us: the people we pass, images, advertisements, and various signs. Our consciousness absorbs all this information, which is then sorted, filtered, and often discarded. This can result in disturbing dreams, unexpected negative thoughts, and other unsettling experiences.

Throughout life, each person accumulates a considerable baggage of beliefs—both those imposed by others and those we form for ourselves. Overcoming these can take many years. We begin to seek methods and techniques that can cancel out or transform our previous negative programmes.

To reprogramme yourself and set new guidelines for your subconscious, you can utilise the principle of auto-suggestion, which also operates through the power of words. In other words, you persuade yourself of who you want to become or what you wish to achieve. This principle forms the foundation for many different systems. For example, there are monks in China and Tibet who practise auto-suggestion by identifying themselves with an image they aspire to and aligning themselves with that ideal.

One of the most powerful forms of auto-suggestion is singing. Many people are unaware that they might enjoy or even be capable of singing. Singing can be likened to meditation.

When a person sings, they programme themselves for positivity.

I’m not referring to melancholic songs that deepen feelings of sadness. Some individuals, especially the young, facing unfulfilled love, often gravitate towards songs that deepen their depressive state. This too is a form of programming.

It’s important to remember that music has a profound influence on our consciousness. When a person listens to cheerful and inspiring music, their entire system undergoes a positive transformation.

Energisation in a sitting posture, which we practise at Kriya Yoga seminars, is a fundamental technique of Kriya and also serves as a form of auto-suggestion. By developing a special perception of their body parts and distinct components of their consciousness, and awakening a heightened awareness, one begins to view their body in a new light and changes their attitude towards their body temple.

The method of auto-suggestion and the power of words are also employed by some scholars. For instance, I recommend exploring the phrases offered by Academician Sytin, who developed the method of healing attitudes. He was well-known throughout the Soviet Union. Sytin utilised auto-suggestion formulas that aid people in a variety of situations.