How can you benefit from Samyama meditation like SZA?
American singer-songwriter SZA recently embarked on an Eat, Pray, Love-style journey to India, seeking solitude and self-discovery. She shared glimpses of her stay at an ashram in Tamil Nadu, where she practised Samyama meditation, a deep meditative discipline that required her to disconnect from the outside world—no phone, no mirrors, and no eye contact for over eight days.
“Life is so profound and chaotic and beautiful. I have no words for my Samyama experience. No phone, no mirrors, no eye contact for 8+ days (these pics are from before and after the program). For a fundamental yapper, I lost my mind… then found it. Came back to so much overwhelming information—between the state of the world and my personal/professional life. But somehow, it’s all settling quietly and loudly at the same time,” SZA wrote in an Instagram post.
What is Samyama meditation?
Juhi Pandey, psycholog at Mpower, Aditya Birla Education Trust, said that Samyama meditation is rooted in psychological mindfulness, focusing on self-awareness, reflection, and mental clarity.
“From a psychological mindfulness perspective, Samyama involves paying full attention to the present moment and observing thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations without judgment. This can help individuals achieve inner calm, greater awareness, and a deeper understanding of themselves,” she said. temporarily shutting off external dractions, individuals may enhance emotional regulation, improve focus, and promote overall mental well-being.
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The mental detox effect
Pandey compared the impact of sensory deprivation during meditation to physical detox practices like intermittent fasting.
“Research suggests that fasting helps the body’s detoxification process. Similarly, disconnecting from phones and external noise allows the mind to reset, fostering mental clarity and well-being,” she said.
However, she cautioned that extended isolation isn’t for everyone. For those unaccustomed to being alone with their thoughts, it may bring up unresolved emotions, discomfort, or feelings of loneliness. To make such an experience beneficial, she recommended gradual exposure and a support system to process emotions healthily.
