The thirty-first in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.

In this talk, starting with Chapter 6:11, Swamiji discusses different aspects of medition, including posture, practice, and a yogi's seat, as well as the contested meaning of "nasikagram," focusing on the root of the nose, plus other aspects of Krishna'a teachings in the Gita.

Here's a summary of the main points from Swami Nirmalananda Giri's talk on "A Yogi's Place of Meditation":

• Firm Seat: The Yogi should establish a firm, stable seat for meditation, whether on the ground or a chair, ensuring it does not jiggle or move.
• Cleanliness and Position: The place for meditation should be clean, not too high or too low, symbolizing a balance in one's practice.
• Materials for Insulation: Traditionally, kusa grass, antelope skin, and cloth are mentioned for insulation and comfort, with modern equivalents like rugs or blankets suggested to prevent dampness during outdoor meditation.
• Focus on a Single Object: The mind should be directed to one object, like the breath or the mantra "Soham," to achieve concentration.
• Control of Senses: Meditation involves controlling thought and sensory activity through yoga practice, specifically mentioning japa of the mantra "Soham" as encompassing all necessary conditions for meditation.
• Posture and Physical Comfort: The body, head, and neck should be kept erect but relaxed, not rigid like in a military parade, with the suggestion to adjust if necessary for comfort or to address physical needs like itching.
• Gaze and Mudra: The gaze should be gently directed towards the tip of the nose or upward, which helps in maintaining awareness at the Sahasrara Chakra.
• Mental State: The mind should be quieted through breath control (breathing normally in a relaxed way), banishing fear or anxiety which might arise during meditation due to physiological or neurological reasons.
• Brahmacharya: Refers here to controlling the senses, maintaining focus without being distracted by external sensations or thoughts.
• Devotion and Meditation Technique: Meditation involves being devoted to the divine through the practice of japa (repetition of mantra), specifically integrating breath with the mantra "Soham" to achieve unity with the divine.
• Outcome of Practice: A disciplined Yogi, with a subdued mind, achieves tranquility and ultimately attains supreme peace or "Nirvana," leading to union with the divine.

This talk emphasizes the practical aspects of setting up for meditation, maintaining focus, and the integration of physical posture with mental discipline to achieve spiritual goals.