Shaiva Tantra

What are the non-dual practices in Shaiva Tantra?

The non-dual practices in Shaiva Tantra are rooted in the belief of oneness with Lord Shiva, the ultimate reality. These practices aim to dissolve the illusion of duality and unite the individual with the divine. The following are some of the key practices in Shaiva Tantra that focus on non-dualism:

  1. Shiva-Shakti Sadhana: This practice involves the worship of both Shiva and Shakti, the masculine and feminine energies of the universe. By balancing and harmonizing these energies within oneself, the practitioner can experience the non-dual nature of reality.

  2. Mantra Japa: Chanting mantras is a powerful practice in Shaiva Tantra that helps the practitioner connect with the divine and transcend the limitations of the mind. Through the repetition of mantras, one can experience the non-dual state of consciousness.

  3. Kundalini Awakening: The awakening of the dormant energy, known as Kundalini, is a vital practice in Shaiva Tantra. This energy is believed to reside at the base of the spine and, when awakened, can lead to the experience of non-dual awareness.

  4. Prana Shuddhi: This practice involves purifying and balancing the energy channels in the body, known as nadis, through various techniques such as pranayama (breathwork) and mudras (hand gestures). By doing so, the practitioner can experience the non-dual nature of the self.

  5. Laya Yoga: Laya means dissolution, and Laya Yoga is a practice that aims to dissolve the individual ego and merge with the universal consciousness. Through various techniques such as meditation, visualization, and contemplation, one can experience the non-dual state of being.

  6. Advaita Vedanta: Shaiva Tantra is deeply influenced by the teachings of Advaita Vedanta, which is based on the principle of non-dualism. It emphasizes the oneness of the individual soul (Atman) and the universal soul (Brahman), leading to the experience of non-dual awareness.

Overall, the non-dual practices in Shaiva Tantra help the practitioner transcend the limitations of the mind and experience the ultimate reality of oneness with Lord Shiva. By dissolving the illusion of duality, one can attain liberation and ultimate bliss. These practices require dedication, discipline, and guidance from a qualified guru to achieve the desired results.