Shabd Yoga

Shabd yoga works. It is an ancient technique that when performed correctly can elicit a series of remarkable experiences, not the least of which is a deep sense of euphoria. However, this ancient practice (which apparently dates at least to the pre-Vedic period in India) has become so intertwined with varying religious doctrines (ranging from Nathism to Radhasoami) that the simplicity of its technique has been overshadowed by unnecessary theological overlays. The technique is not at all complex. Sitting as still as possible the neophyte calmly and patiently listens to subtler and subtler internal sounds within one's head with the desired aim of melting or blending into certain melodies that give one an almost immediate sense of bliss. Varying religious systems have arisen in India and elsewhere which have attempted to give a spiritual or ontological interpretation to what these inner sounds mean and what they purport. However, the technique itself doesn't have to be lost to such theological entrapments because it actually succeeds regardless of whether one is an atheist, agnostic, or a firm believer. Just as anyone can potentially have amazing dreams at night, so anyone can potentially hear inner sounds and have remarkable experiences thereby.

This book provides some rich excerpts from the Upanishads and Yogic texts, along with critical insights by
Professor David Christopher Lane on the practice of listening to the inner sound.