Dhyana’s earliest references can be found in the period between the Vedas (written 4000 years ago) and Puranas (2000 years ago).

In order to attain enlightenment, the two sides of the same coin, Dhyana (to close your eyes and look inwards) and Darshan (to open your eyes and observe the world), both are necessary for the sustenance of lifestyles that fall under the branch of Sanatana Dharma.

In simplified terms, Dyana equates to Buddhism, an ascetic lifestyle and to look within oneself, while Darshan equates to Hinduism, a domestic lifestyle and acknowledging the society’s point of view.