Chapter 1 – Concentration/Samadhi Pada – Part 14 After the Mind is Stable – Yoga Sutras (1.40-1.41) Overview: Once the mind has been reasonably stabilized and clear (see yoga sutras 1.33-1.39), the process of Yoga can begin to deepen further. Once the deeper stages are reached the mind then becomes like a transparent crystal (sutra …
Chapter 1 – Concentration/Samadhi Pada – Part 13 Stabilizing/Clearing the Mind, cont. – (Yoga Sutras 1.36-1.39) Overview: The previous two sutras (1.34 & 1.35 – see pt. 12) were the 1st and 2nd of five specific “concentrations” that Patanjali recommended for stabilizing the mind. And we were reminded to become aware of the actual sensing …
Chapter 1 – Concentration/Samadhi Pada – Part 12 Stabilizing/Clearing the Mind – Yoga Sutras (1.33-1.35) Overview: Many teachers of meditation emphasize only one method. Concentrating on the breath is just one example. Some focus on a specific center in the body (chakra) or fixed gazing on some visual object (trataka) as outlined in sutras 1.33 …
We have all heard that we should always do what makes us happy or brings us joy. We have an idea that what we do is related to some special dream. We believe that we will achieve or accomplish happiness and joy with a lot of work, perseverance, and effort. The truth is that we …
Chapter 1 – Concentration/Samadhi Pada – Part 11 Obstacles & Solutions – Yoga Sutras (1.30-1.32) Overview: As your practice evolves obstacles are to be expected. Yoga sutra 1.30 lists nine predictable obstacles that arise on your inner journey, and sutra 1.31 mentions four consequences that grow out of these obstacles. Although the serious student may …
Chapter 1 – Concentration/Samadhi Pada – Part 10 Samadhi Attained by Devotion, cont. – Yoga Sutras (1.25-1.29) This practice takes the student on a direct route inward, systematically penetrating each level of consciousness. Here it will be shown how Ishvara is represented and invoked by OM and how consciousness contains the seed of omniscience which …
Chapter 1 – Concentration/Samadhi Pada – Part 9 Samadhi Attained by Devotion – Yoga Sutras (1.23-1.24) Patanjali uses the next few sutras to focus on the concept of Ishvara in the framework of yoga. Early writings often used Ishvara to mean “master.” A yogesvara was therefore a “master of yoga.” Ishvara is derived from the …
Chapter 1 – Concentration/Samadhi Pada – Part 8 Effort & Commitment, cont. – Yoga Sutras (1.21 – 1.22) These two sutras (1.21 and 1.22) discuss the levels of intensity applied to actual practice and commitment to the goal. This way each person can progress at their own rate and still have a direct experience. Remaining …
Chapter 1 – Concentration/Samadhi Pada – Part 7 Effort & Commitment – Yoga Sutras (1.19 – 1.20) Yoga Sutras 1.19 and 1.20 describe two kinds or types of aspirants, both of whom can attain the goals of Yoga: Advanced, born with true insight: These aspirants are those who have made tremendous advancement in previous lives …
Chapter 1 – Concentration/Samadhi Pada – Part 7 Effort & Commitment – Yoga Sutras (1.19 – 1.20) Yoga Sutras 1.19 and 1.20 describe two kinds or types of aspirants, both of whom can attain the goals of Yoga: Advanced, born with true insight: These aspirants are those who have made tremendous advancement in previous lives …