Japa, Ajapa, and Ajapa Japa: Powerful Forms of Meditation

In the yoga-tantra tradition, japa and ajapa japa are closely related yet distinct techniques. Both have roots in yoga and tantra and are powerful tools for spiritual growth, mental clarity, and inner peace.

Japa means conscious repetition of a mantra. It is a powerful method of calming, strengthening, and enlightening the mind.

Ajapa means the spontaneous repetition of a mantra –a highly advanced state in which the mind is completely empty of thoughts, restlessness and lethargy. It is full of light, sound vibration, and bliss. It is the state that occurs when we have practiced japa for a considerable length of time.

The practice of Ajapa Japa combines Japa and Ajapa. You repeat the mantra SO HM, which is the mantra of the breath. At the same time, you tune into the vibration of the breath as it moves in your body. When your perception becomes more subtle, you can hear the mantra that is spontaneously moving in your breath 15 times per second, 21,600 times a day, every day for your whole life.

Japa: The Practice of Repetition

Japa, derived from the Sanskrit root jap, meaning to utter in a low voice, repeat internally, or mutter, is the practice of repeating a mantra, the name of a deity, or sacred sound, either verbally or mentally. This repetition is typically done a set number of times, often using a mala (a string of 108 beads) to keep count.

There are five forms of japa:

1. Vaikhari Japa: This is the most common and basic form of japa. It involves audible chanting or repeating the mantra out loud. The practitioner speaks the mantra clearly, allowing the sound vibrations to be heard externally.
2. Upamshu Japa: In this form, the mantra is repeated in a low or whispered voice. The lips and tongue move, but the sound is barely audible, often only heard by the practitioner themselves.
3. Manasika Japa: This is mental repetition of the mantra. The practitioner silently repeats the mantra in their mind without any physical movement of the mouth or vocal cords.
4. Likhita Japa: This involves writing the mantra repeatedly. It's a form of japa that engages visual and kinesthetic senses, often used to deepen one's connection with the mantra.
5. Mala Japa: This refers to the use of prayer beads (typically a string of 108 beads) to count repetitions of the mantra. It can be combined with any of the above forms of japa.

The Role of a Mala

In japa practice, a mala (a string of beads) is often used to count the repetitions of the mantra. A traditional mala consists of 108 beads, plus one larger bead known as the sumeru or guru bead. The practitioner begins at the bead next to the sumeru and counts each repetition by moving from bead to bead. The use of a mala helps in maintaining focus and ensures that the practitioner completes a specific number of repetitions.

The characteristics of Japa:

• Intentional: All forms of japa require conscious effort and intention to repeat the mantra.
• Countable: Japa is often practiced for a specific number of repetitions or duration.
• Focused: Concentration is required to maintain repetition and avoid distractions.
• Ritualistic: Japa is often part of a formal spiritual practice or ritual.

Japa is widespread across various spiritual traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and some forms of Sufism. The repetitive nature of japa helps to focus the mind, calm emotional turbulence, and gradually align one's consciousness with the divine or higher states of awareness.

Ajapa: The Spontaneous Flow

Ajapa, on the other hand, literally means without japa or without effort; that is, spontaneous repetition. It refers to a state where the repetition of the mantra or sacred sound becomes so ingrained that it continues effortlessly, without conscious effort. In ajapa, the practitioner no longer needs to actively repeat the mantra; instead, it flows naturally and continuously in the background of their consciousness.

The Key Difference

The primary distinction between japa and ajapa lies in the level of effort and conscious involvement:

Japa requires active participation and intentional repetition. The practitioner must consciously engage in the practice, whether vocally or mentally.

Ajapa is a more advanced state where the repetition becomes automatic and effortless. It's often described as a spontaneous, continuous inner vibration or sound that persists even during daily activities.

The characteristics of ajapa are:

• Spontaneous: The mantra or sacred sound continues without conscious effort.
• Not counted: There's no attempt to track the number of repetitions.
• Effortless: It doesn't require focused concentration to maintain.
• Constant: Ideally, ajapa continues throughout all activities, waking and sleeping.
• Subtle: The vibration or sound in ajapa is often experienced at a very subtle level, sometimes described as more of a feeling than a heard sound.

Key Differences between japa and ajapa

• Level of Effort: Japa requires active participation and effort. The practitioner must consciously engage in the repetition, whether vocally or mentally. Ajapa, on the other hand, happens spontaneously without any effort from the practitioner.
• Duration and Continuity: Japa is typically practiced for specific periods or sessions. Ajapa, ideally, is a constant, unbroken stream of awareness that continues even during daily activities and sleep.
• Progression of Practice: Japa is often seen as a preparatory practice that can eventually lead to ajapa. As one becomes deeply immersed in japa over time, the repetition may start to occur automatically, leading to the state of ajapa.
• Focus of Attention: In japa, the focus is on the act of repetition itself. In ajapa, the attention is more on the subtle, continuous presence of the mantra or vibration in the background of consciousness.
• Depth of Integration: While japa is a specific practice, ajapa represents a deeper integration of the mantra into one's being. It's often described as the mantra becoming one with the practitioner's life force or breath.
• Relationship to Breath: Some forms of ajapa, particularly in the ajapa japa technique, are closely tied to the natural rhythm of breathing. The mantra is felt to flow with each inhalation and exhalation without conscious effort.
• Experiential Quality: Japa often feels like an active doing, while ajapa is more of a state of being. In advanced stages of ajapa, practitioners report feeling as if they are being breathed or vibrated by the mantra, rather than doing anything themselves.
• Accessibility: Japa is generally accessible to beginners and can be started with minimal instruction. Ajapa, being a more advanced state, typically emerges after long-term, dedicated practice.

In essence, while japa forms the foundation and is a deliberate practice of mantra repetition, ajapa represents the fruit of that practice. In this state, the mantra has become so deeply ingrained that it continues effortlessly as an integral part of one's consciousness. The transition from japa to ajapa is often seen as a significant milestone in spiritual practice, indicating a deepening of one's meditation and a more profound integration of spiritual awareness into daily life.

The Technique of Ajapa Japa

Ajapa japa is a specific meditation technique that aims to bridge the gap between conscious japa and the spontaneous state of ajapa. This practice is an extremely powerful form of meditation that is part of kriya yoga and the chakra and kundalini meditation traditions.

The basic technique of ajapa japa involves the following steps:

1. Breath Awareness: Begin by focusing on the natural rhythm of your breath. Observe the inhalation and exhalation without trying to control them.
2. Mantra Synchronization: Traditionally, SO HM means I am That or HM SO. Mentally coordinate the mantra with your breath:
   • On inhalation: SO – chant the O sound the same length as the breath in.
   • On exhalation: HM – chant the M sound the same length as the breath out.
3. Chakras and nadis: You move the breath and mantra between two psychic centers, chakras, that run along psychic passages called nadis.
4. Subtle Listening: As you continue this practice, shift your attention to listening for the subtle sound of the mantra within your breath. Imagine that your breath itself is making this sound.
5. Expansion of Awareness: Gradually extend this awareness to perceive the mantra-breath connection throughout your body. Envision the mantra flowing with your breath into every cell.
6. Letting Go: As the practice deepens, allow the conscious repetition to fade. Simply remain aware of the subtle vibration or sound continuing on its own.
7. All-Pervasive Awareness: In advanced stages, practitioners aim to perceive this subtle vibration not just within themselves but as an all-pervasive reality both inside and outside their bodies.

Ajapa Japa Meditation Benefits

The practice of ajapa japa is associated with numerous benefits, both on spiritual and practical levels:

1. Deep Relaxation: Synchronizing breath and mantra induces a state of profound relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety.
2. Improved Concentration: Regular practice enhances focus and mental clarity as the mind learns to settle on a single point of attention.
3. Emotional Balance: Creating a constant, soothing internal rhythm, ajapa japa helps stabilize emotions and promote a sense of inner calm.
4. Heightened Self-Awareness: The practice encourages a deep exploration of one's inner landscape, fostering greater self-understanding.
5. Spiritual Growth: Many practitioners report a deepening of their spiritual experiences and a sense of connection to something greater than themselves.
6. Enhanced Intuition: As the mind becomes quieter, many find that their intuitive faculties become sharper.
7. Better Sleep: The calming effects of the practice can lead to improved sleep quality.
8. Holistic Health: By promoting relaxation and reducing stress, ajapa japa can contribute to overall physical and mental well-being.
9. Mindfulness in Daily Life: As the practice becomes more ingrained, practitioners often become more present and mindful in their day-to-day activities.
10. Access to Higher States of Consciousness: Advanced practitioners report experiences of expanded awareness and transcendent states of consciousness.

The Ajapa Japa Experience

The experience of ajapa japa can vary significantly from person to person and even from session to session for the same individual. However, some common elements are often reported:

1. Initial Struggle: Beginners often find coordinating their breath with the mantra challenging and may experience mental chatter or distractions.
2. Rhythmic Flow: As practice continues, many report a pleasant sense of rhythm and flow as the breath and mantra synchronize.
3. Deepening Calm: A profound sense of relaxation and peace often develops as the practice progresses.
4. Time Distortion: Some practitioners lose track of time, feeling that the session passed very quickly.
5. Subtle Sensations: Many report feeling subtle vibrations, tingling sensations, or a sense of inner warmth.
6. Spontaneous Continuity: Advanced practitioners may find that the mantra continues effortlessly, even when they're not actively practicing.
7. Expanded Awareness: Some describe a sense of their consciousness expanding beyond the confines of their body.
8. Inner Light or Sound: In deep states, practitioners sometimes report experiences of inner light or cosmic sounds (nada).
9. Thoughtless Awareness: Advanced stages may involve periods of complete mental silence, during which the practitioner is fully alert but without any mental activity.
10. Bliss and Unity: At the deepest levels, some report experiences of profound joy, love, and a sense of oneness with the universe.

It's important to note that while these experiences can be profound and transformative, they are not the goal of the practice. In the tradition of ajapa japa, the experiences themselves are seen as waypoints on the journey rather than the destination. The ultimate aim is to cultivate a constant state of presence, awareness, and connection to one's true nature.

Integrating Ajapa Japa into Daily Life

One of the unique aspects of ajapa japa is its potential for integration into daily life. Unlike many meditation practices that require sitting in a specific posture with eyes closed, the essence of ajapa japa can be carried into one's daily activities. Advanced practitioners often report a continuous undercurrent of the mantra or subtle vibration persisting throughout their day, creating a backdrop of calm awareness amidst the bustle of life.

This integration can lead to a state of continuous meditation or mindfulness, where every breath and every moment becomes an opportunity for presence and connection to one's deeper self. It's this potential for seamless integration that makes ajapa japa particularly appealing to those seeking a spiritual practice that extends beyond formal meditation sessions.

Conclusion

Japa and ajapa represent different stages on a continuum of meditative practice. While japa involves active repetition, ajapa is the effortless continuation of that repetition. Ajapa japa, as a technique, serves as a bridge between these two states, offering a structured approach to cultivating a state of continuous, effortless awareness.

The benefits of this practice extend from stress reduction and improved concentration to profound spiritual experiences and a transformed way of being in the world. As with any spiritual practice, the effects of ajapa japa unfold gradually and uniquely for each individual. It's a journey of self-discovery, inviting practitioners to explore the depths of their consciousness and the subtle rhythms that underlie their existence.

Whether approached as a standalone meditation technique or as part of a broader spiritual path, ajapa japa offers a powerful tool for those seeking inner peace, self-understanding, and a deeper connection to the rhythms of life and consciousness itself.