Union of Breath and Universe: Ajikan & Japanese Mantra Therapy

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The Rising Interest in Meditative Practices

In France, the growing influence of Buddhist practices, particularly meditation, reflects an increasing interest in harmonizing the body and mind. Today, meditation techniques and mindfulness are integrated into Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) programs, with scientific validation of their benefits on stress reduction, attention, and emotional regulation. Our understanding of the inner world continues to evolve, fuelled by the convergence of neuroscientific advances and ancient traditions. This dialogue between science and wisdom provides concrete tools to foster well-being, inner peace, and personal transformation.

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A Meditative Approach Rooted in Japanese Tantric Buddhism

It is within this perspective that my approach takes shape. Ajikan is a structured meditative practice originating from Japanese Tantric Buddhism (Shingon). It combines contemplation, breath work, and the spiritual power of sacred syllables to induce a deep state of concentration and mental clarity. Adapted for the Western mind, this approach is particularly effective in regulating anxiety, reducing stress, improving emotional management, and providing support for depression and attention disorders.

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Ajikan: A Contemplative Meditation

Ajikan is a contemplative meditation practice that involves intense and prolonged focus on a sacred symbol, specifically the Sanskrit letter “A” inscribed in a lunar disc. Unlike other forms of meditation that emphasize thought observation, Ajikan structures attention by directing it toward a precise object, making it easier to calm mental fluctuations. By gazing at the sacred character within the lunar circle, the mind progressively anchors itself, stabilizing thoughts and inducing a profound state of clarity. This technique shares similarities with contemplative traditions in other spiritual paths. Like mandala meditation or mystical contemplation, Ajikan follows its own dynamic, founded on the synergy of visual focus, breath synchronization, and sound resonance.

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How Does the Contemplation of Sacred Symbols Influence the Mind and Emotions?

 

Visual Focus and Its Effects on the Brain

• Fixing the gaze on a specific point, such as the Sanskrit letter “A” within the lunar disc, engages the visual cortex and promotes a state of deep concentration, similar to the Trataka (1) practice in yoga. This controlled visual stimulation slows intrusive thoughts and stabilizes brain activity. The lunar disc plays a key role: it provides a stable, luminous, and soothing image, creating a visual anchor that calms the nervous system and encourages deep relaxation.

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Its Impact on Brain Waves and Deep Relaxation

When one focuses on a simple and harmonious object, the brain naturally shifts into an alpha state, promoting relaxation and reducing mental tension. With continued practice, the theta state can emerge, leading to a profound sense of release and introspection. This effect resembles mindfulness techniques  but adds structured visual and symbolic support to enhance focus.

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The Symbolic Dimension of the Sacred Sanskrit Character and Its Unconscious Impact

In esoteric Buddhism, the Sanskrit “A” in Siddham script is the primordial sound, the source of all existence. Contemplating this letter brings the mind back to its original state, before agitation and mental disturbances arise. This radical simplicity has a powerful effect: the mind gradually ceases to be scattered and returns to a more essential perception of the present moment.

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Synchronization with Breath and Mantra

During contemplation, the breath naturally synchronizes with the observation. This process creates coherence between attention, breath, and sound resonance, amplifying relaxation and refocusing the practitioner.

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Reasons to Consider Japanese Shingon Mantra Therapy

When discussing mantras, people often think of Tibetan Buddhism, which is more well-known in the West. However, Japanese esoteric Buddhism (Shingon) has a rich and structured mantra tradition, deeply integrated into a complete vision of inner transformation. Shingon Mantra Therapy follows a precise oral transmission and an energetic structure where sacred sounds influence the mind and harmonize emotions. When combined with Ajikan, this approach creates a powerful synergy between contemplation, breath, and the resonance of sacred syllables. Mantra therapy is not merely about reciting sacred syllables; it involves the body, breath, and mind in a unified process of inner balance.

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The Psycho-Emotional Benefits of Ajikan Meditation & Japanese Mantra Therapy

• Regulating Stress and Anxiety → Stabilizes the nervous system through breath control and induces alpha/theta waves.

• Calming Mental Overactivity → The structuring effect of sacred sound resonance and visual fixation.

• Supporting Mood and Attention Disorders → Regulates neurotransmitters linked to motivation and well-being.

• Enhancing Concentration and Mental Clarity → Engages the prefrontal cortex and refines focused attention.

• Improving Sleep Quality → Deep relaxation and stabilization of circadian rhythms.

 

An Invitation to Reflect and Practice

This practice requires time and commitment. To fully grasp its depth and benefits, one must practice, practice, and practice again. Therefore, before considering enrolment, I invite you to use and abuse your discernment. Intelligence underlies wisdom, and wisdom is born from experience. As Buddha said in the Kalama Sutta (2): “Do not believe an idea simply because it is old, written, or taught by an authority. Experiment with it, observe its effects, and see if it brings you clarity, peace, and wisdom. If it does, continue. If not, let it go.”

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Warning

This meditation practice has profound effects on the psyche and mind. However, it is a complementary approach and does not replace medical or conventional therapeutic care for individuals in severe distress.

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(1) Trataka is a yogic meditation technique that consists of fixing the gaze on a specific point, such as a candle flame, to develop concentration, calm the mind, and refine inner perception. By intensely focusing the gaze, this practice stabilizes thoughts and induces a deep state of mental clarity.

(2) The Kalama Sutta is a Buddhist teaching that encourages not to blindly accept beliefs or teachings simply because they are old, come from an authority, or are widely accepted. It encourages individuals to try, observe results, and keep only what fosters clarity, peace, and wisdom.

 

Conditions & Enrolment

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