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Since the term Nirvikalpa Samsara Yoga is frequently misunderstood, especially in the west, this form of non-dual psychotherapy is also called, Non-Dual, Non-Cognitive Therapy
Here is a brief introduction.
Non-Cognitive therapy, NCT, is a practical method of achieving Self-Realization, based on Advaita philosophy.
From a completely western perspective, NCT can be classified as a form of existential and humanistic psychotherapy.
From a East-West perspective, it is part of a school of non-dual therapy.
And from an Eastern perspective, NCT is a form of Yoga; more specifically, NCT is consistent with the overall philosophy and teachings of the Kashmir Shaivite school, and the Tantra shastras.
NCT rests on a theoretical framework of principles, some of which I have covered in previous writings, and also through allegorical stories.
From a neurobiological perspective, both hemispheres of the cerebral cortex - grossly, the intuitve and the logical, the emotional and the intellectual - are accessed and stimulated in parallel in a gentle and manner. Further, the dominant prefrontal cortex is also stimulated through prescribed meditation and contemplative exercises.
From a spiritual perspective, this involves a gradual disidentification with the limited ego, and a gradual increase in the absorption into the Self.
One could see a NCT trained therapist, who would aid in the journey to the Self. But one does not really need a therapist or guru or teacher.
A central tenet of NCT is that everyone has within themselves the Ultimate Therapist . The Ultimate Therapist knows the answers to questions that have not yet been asked by the client.
The Ultimate Therapist is beyond countertransference, bias, prejudice, or fatigue.
And best of all, the Ultimate Therapist is free!
As the name suggests, an important feature of NCT is that cognitions themselves are of limited value in the well being of the client.
While NCT recognizes that “negative” cognitions worsen mental distress, these cognitions are not seen as central to the Self. In other words, the Blissful Self is non-cognitive, beyond thought, beyond depression, beyond anxiety, and yet encompassing all those “negative” emotions and cognitions within a Blissful whole.
An aphorism from NCT,a guiding principle of sorts, is : You know the answers. You just have to know that you know.
I will describe the steps more, in the next few posts |
