The
claims made on behalf of hatha-yoga are as extensive as they are remarkable.
Techniques like Asanas, Kumbhaka and Mudras are often accompanied by the claims
of immense effects such as "immortality" and even attainment of
Moksha. All these claims seem to be exaggeration as to how can
particular postures of body lead us to such seemingly grand achievements. The
answer lies in the fact that, techniques alone do not stand much if not allied
with the holistic experience of Hatha yoga. However, if such claims are
considered with regard to each techniques proper place in the discipline as a
whole i.e. as concerning the technique's effect in combination with a full
range of asanas, Mudras, Kumbhaka and intense mental concentration then they
become a little more feasible.
The
display of effects of Hatha yoga has called in for several textual mentions,
anecdotes and folklore. These effects are evident in several 'special powers',
acquired by the yogi through prolonged and assiduous practice, and commonly
termed siddhis. In yogic context the term Siddhi has two meanings. Firstly it
denotes the 'absolute success' or 'perfection' achieved by the yogi who has
realized his or her true identity as Brahman. Secondly it refers to the sense
of a more physical, but comparatively minor 'accomplishment' or 'special power'
acquired on the way to ultimate success. Such accomplishments were more
visible, but they only indicated that the Sadhaka is moving in the right
direction, rather than being the goals themselves.
According
to the Yoga-Sutra, Siddhis attain the sustained practice of sanyama, which
consists in the combined inner disciplines of Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi. This
is also defind in terms of vibhuti pada. Vibhuti meaning 'signal blessing', 'gift'
or 'power' and thus is virtual synonym of siddhi. Much of the Vibhuti-pada is
devoted to outlining the numerous siddhis accrued by one's performing Sanyama
on specific objects. Eight Siddhis are held to be most important amongst all. To
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