In Hinduism, Samadhi is the ultimate state of mind one can attain. Here, your mind feels a deep sense of oneness with the Source, which I call Divine Energy. In this state of mind, we realize that Divine Energy works through everyone and everything.

There are three types of Samadhi, which are commonly discussed. As with most ancient philosophies, each scholar gives their own meaning for these. What I share is my experience and understanding.

1. Savikalpa Samadhi — The Blissful Flow State

The first type is called Savikalpa Samadhi, or The Blissful Flow State. Many creative people experience this state when deeply immersed in something they love — art, music, dance, or even sports and games.

Psychology refers to this same state of mind as the Flow State, where creativity flows freely. In this state, your mind is so happy with what it is doing that it becomes blissful and calm.

Savikalpa Samadhi is a beautiful experience, but it is temporary. It is usually triggered by something external, such as passion or creative expression. Even then, it gives us a taste of Oneness with the Source. This is why Hinduism strongly encourages various art forms.

2. Sahaja Samadhi — Living with Mindfulness

The second type is called Sahaja Samadhi, or Living with Mindfulness. It is a mindset where we live in deep inner peace despite our external situations.

In modern lingo, this is the equivalent of living in a Zen mode. In Hinduism, this state of mind is known as living in Satvik mode.

Anyone can achieve this state of mind through spiritual practices of being in the present moment without worries, attachments, and desires.

3. Nirvikalpa Samadhi — Beyond Thought and Feeling

The third is called Nirvikalpa Samadhi or Yogic Samadhi. This is the ultimate state of transcendence, in which the mind stops — there are no thoughts, no feelings, or no sense of the world around you. You are alive and not asleep, but you experience nothing.

Words cannot express this state of Nirvikalpa Samadhi. It is something like love, which you can experience but not explain. It can only be experienced after many hours of intense spiritual discipline.

How to Attain Samadhi?

Now that you know the three types of Samadhi, you might wonder, “How do I achieve them?”

The path to Samadhi involves dedication. You begin by practicing some art form — performing, visual, or literary art. Even playing sports and reading books can help. As you become an expert in some field and enjoy creativity, you will eventually experience Savikalpa Samadhi. This can also be experienced through Bhakti and other such forms of worship.

Simultaneously, you also work on building mindfulness, eliminating attachments, and eradicating desires through spiritual disciplines like contemplation and yoga. This will eventually lead to Sahaja Samadhi.

Finally, you dedicate time to building one-pointed concentration through chanting and meditation, which leads to Nirvikalpa Samadhi.

Hope that gives you an overview of what Samadhi means.

Love, 
Sri Devi Om