The sage, Patanjali, outlined eight steps to achieving ultimate consciousness. This model is known as Ashtanga Yog. Its limbs are as follows:

1. Yamas: Self-restraint is an important quality to inculcate in oneself. Through self-restraint, one can counter the exhausting effects of negative thoughts and feelings. One can also prevent a detrimental energy chain from forming around oneself – sucking others into its vortex. This quality can be developed by adhering to ethical rules of non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, sexual control and non-possessiveness.
2. Niyamas: We often gravitate towards external sources of pleasure and self-gratification at the expense of inner contentment. These habits arise out of barriers that we develop over time. By cultivating virtuous habits and observances, we can cleanse ourselves of these inhibitions; thus orienting ourselves towards inner growth. These prerogatives are the sanitation of mind, body and speech; the acceptance of others; persistence and self-discipline; self-introspection and surrender to the One.
3. Asana: To achieve ultimate consciousness, it’s essential for a person to attain a deep meditative state. To get there, one has to be in a physical position that’s comfortable and relaxing; yet supportive of mindfulness. A person’s preferred bodily posture must be one that can be held for a length of time without twitchy movement. This posture will enable one to remain physically steady while trying to attain a deep, meditate state.
4. Pranayama: The mind is often filled with the toxins of stress, anxiety and other types of negativity. Breath control makes it possible to ease oneself of these impurities. This can be done in several ways. a) Inhaling then holding one’s breath for a period of time. b) Changing the timing and length of the breath. Kumbhaka and Bhramari are two Pranayama practices that I enjoy. In the latter, I first cover my eyes, ears and mouth with my fingers. Then, I chant Om through my nostrils. The ensuing energy activates my neurons – making me energetic and stress-free. In Kumbhaka, I hold my breath for as long as I can. Next, I try to visualize the oxygen circulating inside my lungs. In particular, I focus on the moment when the air turns into carbon dioxide. This is the moment when inhalation ends and exhalation begins. Kumbhaka is a highly effective practice for boosting one’s oxygen capacity.
5. Pratyahara: The first four limbs help a person to attain the right physical form for Oneness. Now, having achieved physical balance, one can progress towards awakening the inner spirit. The first phase is to detach oneself from the sensations of physical objects and to experience the beauty of one’s inner world.
6. Dharana: After glimpsing one’s inner world, a person would feel compelled to dwell in it for a while. To deepen the journey, it’s necessary to focus on one thing: issue, topic, image etc. This focused practise helps in visualising a subject; thereby enhancing one’s power of concentration.
7. Dhyana: Focus and reflection are two sides of a coin. While concentration helps in zeroing in on a subject – contemplation aids in cultivating serene detachment. Silent Sitting is an effective practice towards this end. When I perform this activity, I don’t focus on any one topic. On the contrary, I let my thoughts and feelings populate the canvas of my consciousness. I become a silent non-judgemental spectator who merely witnesses this spectrum unfold. At a certain point in time, my mental canvas empties and I start to experience powerful feelings of connection with the One.
8. Samadhi: The ultimate state of consciousness is one where a person is enmeshed with the One. Here, the individual is only aware of the One. Even, the awareness of being in mediation disappears.

The eight steps described above would help an individual attain the inner balance and resilience to achieve Oneness. I urge you all to introspect on your barriers; incorporate these lessons in your habits and relationships and devote a window of time every day for these practices.