Posts Tagged ‘Yoga Sutra’

Mastering the Mind

Posted: April 14, 2024 in Musings
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yogaḥ citta-vṛtti-nirodhaḥ
Yoga is stilling the fluctuations of the mind.
Yoga Sutra 1.2

As a practitioner of yoga, delving into The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali is inevitable. Within this text, a significant focus lies on the mind – either mastering it or being subject to its whims. In Book 1, Sutra 2, Patanjali introduces “Chitta Vrittis,” the fluctuations of the mind. 

In Yoga Sutra 1.2, Patanjali defines the essence and purpose of yoga: “yogaḥ citta-vṛtti-nirodhaḥ,” meaning “Yoga is stilling the fluctuations of the mind.” This sutra underscores the necessity of controlling the mind, and recognizing its tendency to distort reality. Like ripples in a lake or social media filters, the mind’s fluctuations include correct perception, delusion, imagination, deep sleep, and memory. “Nirodha” denotes the cessation of these fluctuations, achieved through yoga practice, allowing one to observe the mind’s movements and act from a place of awareness. 

The modifications of the mind refer to the incessant inner dialogue that distracts from the present moment. In a yoga class, when thoughts drift to lunch plans, pending conversations, or comparisons with others, the mind loses its presence, succumbing to fluctuations. These mental distractions are precisely what yoga aims to quiet. Yoga Sutra 1.2 serves as a reminder that consistent practice enables us to better control our actions and reactions, facilitating thoughtful decision-making rather than being swayed by emotions.  

Many find meditation difficult due to its requirement of stillness and inactivity. However, with consistent practice, silencing these fluctuations becomes more natural over time. As our focus deepens on breath, body, and the present moment, mental space expands. Within this space, insights emerge, drawing us closer to our authentic selves.

Om, Hari Om 🙏

The Power of Now

Posted: April 5, 2024 in Musings
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𝘈𝘵𝘩𝘢 𝘺𝘰𝘨𝘢 𝘢𝘯𝘶𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘴𝘢𝘯𝘢𝘮

Now, the teachings of yoga begin.

Yoga Sutra 1.1

Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras is a foundational text that holds timeless insights that continue to resonate with practitioners across the globe, guiding us towards a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the universe.

Yoga Sutra 1.1: “Atha yoga-anushasanam.” Translated as “Now, the teachings of yoga begin,” these seemingly simple words carry profound significance. The term “Atha” marks a moment of readiness, a point of initiation into the transformative journey of yoga. It invites us to embrace the present moment fully, recognizing that the path of yoga unfolds here and now, in the immediacy of our experience.

Another key aspect of Yoga Sutra 1.1 is the term “anushasanam,” which can be translated as “teaching” or “discipline.” This implies that yoga is not merely a set of physical exercises but a comprehensive system of self-discipline and self-discovery. Through dedicated practice and mindful inquiry, we gradually uncover the deeper truths of our being, aligning ourselves with the universal principles that govern existence.

So, how can we apply the insights of Yoga Sutra 1.1 to our daily lives? The answer lies in cultivating a regular yoga practice that encompasses not only physical postures but also breathwork, meditation, and self-reflection. By embracing the teachings of yoga with sincerity and commitment, we can gradually unravel the layers of conditioning that obscure our true nature, revealing the inherent wisdom and compassion that reside within.

Yoga Sutra 1.1 serves as a gateway to the transformative journey of yoga, inviting us to embark on a path of self-discovery and inner growth. By embracing the power of the present moment and committing ourselves to the teachings of yoga, we can awaken to the profound beauty and interconnectedness of life, finding fulfillment and liberation in the here and now.

Hari Om 🙏

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