Samadhi is the eighth and last step of yoga according to Patanjali. It represents a state of total meditative absorption where individual consciousness merges with the universal. It is not simply deep meditation, but a complete transformation of consciousness that produces scientifically measurable physical, psychological, and spiritual benefits.
What is Samadhi? [Definition and Meaning]
Samadhi comes from Sanskrit: “sam” (together), “a” (towards), and “dhi” (put). Its literal translation would be “put together” or “complete union”. However, many teachers prefer not to translate it due to its conceptual depth that cannot be captured in a single Western word.
In practical terms, samadhi is the state where the separation disappears between the meditator, meditation, and the object of meditation. The three merge into a unified experience of pure consciousness. There is no longer an “I meditate on this,” only the pure essence of conscious existence remains.
The key difference with common meditation
Conventional meditation (dhyana) maintains some duality: there is someone meditating on something. In samadhi, this distinction completely dissolves. It is like the difference between observing the ocean from the beach versus becoming the ocean itself. The separation completely disappears.
Patanjali defines it this way in the Yoga Sutras: “When all activity of the mind ceases, the observer remains in their true nature”. This state is not unconscious like deep sleep, but superconscious: an expanded lucidity beyond the ordinary limits of perception.
Why samadhi is the ultimate goal of yoga
The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali outline an eight-limbed path (ashtanga yoga). Each limb prepares for the next. The first five work on the body and energy: yamas, niyamas, asanas, pranayama, and pratyahara. The last three are purely mental and meditative.
Samadhi crowns this system because it represents the full realization of yoga. In fact, Patanjali defines yoga itself as samadhi in his second sutra: “Yoga is the control of the modifications of the mind” (chitta vritti nirodha). When this is completely achieved, the result is samadhi.
All the benefits of yoga —mental peace, clarity, physical health, emotional balance— are preparations and glimpses of the state of samadhi. It is where practice finds its natural culmination and where the practitioner discovers their true nature beyond the ego and the conditioned mind.
The 3 Types of Samadhi You Should Know
Not all states of samadhi are the same. The yogic tradition identifies different levels of meditative absorption, each with unique characteristics. Understanding this classification will help you recognize where you are in your practice and where to naturally progress.
1. Savikalpa Samadhi (“Seeded” Samadhi)
Also called Samprajnata Samadhi, it is the first level of deep absorption. Here, there is still a meditation object: a mantra, an image, the breath, or a spiritual concept. The mind becomes fully absorbed in this object, but still holds a subtle seed of duality.
In this state, you experience intense one-pointed concentration and deep inner peace. However, there remains some awareness of meditating on something. It’s like staring at a candle flame until your mind merges with it, yet you know that the candle exists apart from you.
Savikalpa Samadhi includes four progressive sub-stages: from concentrating on dense physical objects (savitarka) to being absorbed in subtle objects and abstract concepts (savichara), reaching states of pure bliss (sa-ananda) and finally the refined sense of “I am” (sa-asmita).
2. Nirvikalpa Samadhi (Seedless Samadhi)
This is the highest state of meditative absorption. Here, the object of meditation completely disappears and the distinction between subject and object vanishes. There is no “I meditating on this,” only pure consciousness without specific content. The seed has completely dissolved.
Patanjali describes it as Asamprajnata Samadhi, where all mental modifications cease (vrittis). There are no thoughts, concepts, or sensory perceptions. What remains is absolute consciousness, deep silence, and an indescribable sense of unity with the totality of existence.
In Nirvikalpa Samadhi, time and space lose meaning. The practitioner experiences their true nature (Atman) as identical to the supreme reality (Brahman). This state transcends all duality and represents the ultimate goal described in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali.
3. Sahaja Samadhi (Spontaneous Samadhi)
This is the most mature state: the permanent integration of awakened awareness into everyday life. Unlike the previous states that occur during formal meditation, Sahaja Samadhi persists continuously, even while walking, working, or conversing with others.
Here, there is no separation between meditation and action. The practitioner remains established in their true nature while fully participating in the world. It is the living realization that great masters like Ramana Maharshi exemplified: constantly awake, effortlessly, acting with spontaneous wisdom and unconditional love.
This state represents complete spiritual freedom (kaivalya or moksha). It is no longer about entering and exiting samadhi through practice, but rather about being samadhi permanently. The distinction between spiritual practice and daily life has been dissolved forever.
The path to samadhi: from dharana to dhyana
Samadhi does not arise from nothing. It is the natural result of a meditative progression that Patanjali describes as the three final branches of yoga: dharana (concentration), dhyana (meditation), and samadhi (absorption). These three form an organic continuity called samyama, where each stage flows naturally into the next.
Dharana: the art of concentration
Dharana means “to hold” or “to maintain firmly”. It is the ability to focus your attention on a single point without distraction. It can be your breath, a mantra, the flame of a candle, or any meditation object that you consciously choose.
At this stage, your mind still jumps constantly. You notice how your attention strays towards thoughts, external sounds, or bodily sensations. The work here is to recognize each distraction and gently bring your attention back to the chosen object, again and again.
The tradition teaches that if you can keep your mind focused on one object for twelve consecutive breaths without interruption, you have achieved true dharana. It’s like training a muscle: at first, it feels extremely difficult, but with daily practice, it becomes more and more natural and sustained.
Dhyana: the uninterrupted flow of consciousness
When dharana is prolonged and matures, it transforms into dhyana. Here the effort decreases significantly. You no longer need to constantly bring your attention back because it naturally remains focused. Concentration becomes fluid, like oil being poured into a continuous thread without interruptions.
In dhyana, you experience a deeper connection with the object of meditation. Random thoughts decrease dramatically. A quality of absorption emerges where your mind and the object begin to resonate together. There still exists some duality —you meditating on something— but the separation has become very faint.
The teachers say that if you maintain dharana for 144 consecutive breaths (12 x 12), you reach dhyana. Practically, this means approximately 10-15 minutes of uninterrupted concentration. It is a peaceful, lucid, and deeply satisfying state in itself.
Samadhi: total absorption
When dhyana deepens further and is held for an extended time, it finally matures into samadhi. Traditional teachers say that 144 continuous dhyanas are equivalent to one samadhi. Here the numbers are symbolic: they represent a process of gradual deepening that eventually reaches a point of qualitative transformation.
In samadhi, the distinction between observer, observation, and observed object completely collapses. There is no longer “someone” meditating “on something”. Only the pure experience, without subject or object remains. It is a qualitative leap beyond thought, where consciousness recognizes itself directly.
This process is natural and inevitable if the practice continues with patience and regularity. You cannot force samadhi, but you can create the conditions for it to emerge: consistent practice, mental discipline, ethical living (yamas and niyamas), and cultivating detachment from the fruits of your practice.
Scientific Benefits of Samadhi [Studies 2024-2026]
For centuries, the benefits of Samadhi were described only in ancient spiritual texts. Today, modern neuroscience confirms what yogis knew: these elevated states of consciousness produce measurable and profound changes in the brain, body, and psychology. Scientific studies validate this ancient practice with objective data.
Proven neurological changes
Research using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and electroencephalography (EEG) has documented brain transformations in advanced meditators. A 2013 study observed a 53-year-old Buddhist practitioner during states of jhana (the Buddhist equivalent of samadhi) and found significant neurological changes.
Long-term meditators show greater cortical thickness in areas responsible for attention, sensory awareness, and emotional regulation. Specifically, the prefrontal cortex and the insular cortex develop significantly. These regions are directly related to conscious decision-making and deep self-awareness.
The cerebral amygdala, responsible for fear and stress responses, physically reduces and decreases its activity in consistent practitioners. Simultaneously, the default mode network (DMN), active during self-referential thoughts and mental rumination, calms dramatically during deep meditation. This explains the reported reduction in anxiety.
The neurotransmitters also change favorably: they increase serotonin, dopamine, and GABA, all associated with well-being, happiness, and calm. These are not temporary effects but rather lasting structural changes that persist outside of formal meditative practice.
Scientifically Validated Psychological Benefits
The study by Kozasa et al. (2008), published in Psychological Reports, evaluated 22 volunteers with anxiety symptoms practicing Siddha Samadhi Yoga. The results were conclusive: significant reduction in anxiety, depression and tension scores compared to the control group, along with a notable increase in overall well-being.
Practitioners develop greater emotional resilience and mental clarity. They learn to observe thoughts and emotions without identifying with them or reacting automatically. This capacity for “conscious witnessing” dramatically enhances emotional intelligence and interpersonal relationships in all areas of life.
The reduction of constant “mental chatter” is one of the most valued benefits. Practitioners report less self-doubt, less obsessive concern about the past or future, and a greater ability to stay present. This directly translates into better decision-making and greater sustained inner peace.
Measurable physical benefits
Studies on samadhi-oriented yoga practitioners have documented significant metabolic improvements. Important reductions in postprandial blood glucose were observed, a crucial benefit for individuals with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. Glycemic control improves without additional medication, solely through consistent practice.
The body mass index (BMI) decreased by approximately 4% in both normal and obese subjects. The lipid profile improved with a reduction of serum cholesterol by 3.4% in obese and 2.9% in normal subjects. The levels of hemoglobin increased by 12-14%, improving tissue oxygenation and energy levels.
The heart rate variability, a key indicator of long-term cardiovascular health, significantly improves in regular practitioners. Some studies report that the practice of samadhi relieves chronic body pain more effectively than conventional pain medications in certain patients.
How to start your Samadhi practice today
You don’t need to retreat to a cave in the Himalayas or meditate for eight hours a day to begin this journey. Samadhi is accessible to anyone committed to regular practice, patience, and progressive discipline. The important thing is to start where you are now and move forward consistently, step by step.
Fundamental Techniques for Beginners
Anapanasati (Awareness of Breathing): The most accessible and powerful technique. Sit comfortably with your spine erect. Close your eyes and direct all your attention to the natural flow of your breath. Observe the inhalation and exhalation without trying to control them. When your mind gets distracted, acknowledge it without judgment and gently return to the breath.
Japa (Mantra Repetition): Choose a mantra that resonates with you: it can be “Om“, “So Ham” (I am That) or any divine name from your tradition. Mentally repeat it syncing it with your breath. The internal sound of the mantra becomes an anchor for your scattered mind, gradually leading it towards single-pointed concentration.
Trataka (Visual Concentration): Place a lit candle at eye level, about one meter away. Stare at the flame without blinking for 1-2 minutes. Then close your eyes and keep the mental image of the flame. This practice dramatically strengthens your ability for sustained concentration.
Practical steps to establish your practice
Start with short but consistent sessions: 10-15 minutes daily are more effective than a sporadic hour. Practice at the same time every day, preferably early in the morning when the mind is naturally calmer. Create a dedicated space, even if it’s a small corner of your room.
Before meditation, practice 15-20 minutes of asanas (yoga postures). This releases accumulated physical tension and prepares the body to sit still. Add 5-10 minutes of pranayama (conscious breathing) to balance energy and calm the nervous system before sitting in meditation.
Keep a simple meditation journal. Briefly note your experience after each session: how long you focused, what obstacles arose, what you observed. This tracking allows you to recognize patterns and celebrate gradual progress that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Common Obstacles and How to Overcome Them
Mental and Physical Laziness (styana and alasya): The most common obstacle. Combat it by committing to a non-negotiable fixed schedule. Practice even when you don’t feel like it; discipline builds enthusiasm. If the body is lethargic, practice vigorous asanas before sitting down to meditate.
Doubt about the path (samshaya): It is natural to question if you are doing it right or if this really works. Trust the age-old tradition and modern science that validates it. Seek a community of practitioners or an experienced teacher who can guide you and answer doubts with authority.
Mental distractions (vikshepa): Your mind will constantly jump around for weeks or months. This is completely normal. It is not failure; it is the process. Every time you recognize distraction and return to the object of meditation, you strengthen the muscle of attention. Consistency, not perfection, is what transforms.
Your next step on the path
Samadhi is not a distant destination reserved for saints. It is your essential nature waiting to be recognized through dedicated practice. Every moment of genuine concentration brings you closer, every conscious breath prepares the ground, every day of discipline builds the bridge to deeper states.
If you wish to deepen your practice with structured guidance, our yoga courses integrate asanas, pranayama, meditation, and yogic philosophy specifically designed to lead you toward deep meditative states. You will learn traditional techniques adapted for modern life, backed by experienced teachers committed to your transformation.
The journey toward samadhi begins with a single conscious breath. Take that breath now. Then another. And another. The path unfolds step by step, breath by breath, practice by practice. The enlightenment you seek is not far away; it is right here, waiting for your full attention in this very present moment.
Final words: Samadhi represents the culmination of yoga, but also its essence from the very first day. Do not wait to be perfect to start. Start today, where you are, with what you have. Transformation happens in daily practice, not in intellectual understanding. Breathe, focus, observe. The rest will unfold naturally.
