GENIUS OF PATANJALI: The goal of yoga is to bring our mind and body under the control of our true self, which by nature is pure—innocent just like a child when he/she is born. As we grow older we start accumulating experiences which, in turn, cause turbulence in our mind because based on our own experiences and understandings we start manipulating, strategizing, controlling and playing games not only with others but even with ourselves. In the process, we forget who we truly are, and start acting like others (again based on our personal experiences.) But once we realize and acknowledge this dilemma, we can start rediscovering our pure nature or reach a state when we truly identify ourselves with our mind. With practice, we become one, pure and all the conflicts and dualities that live in our mind disappear. Sage Patanjali (the codifier of yoga system about 2,000 years ago), teaches eight steps to achieve this ultimate goal: “Yoga is the control of the (moral) character of thought.” 1. Yama: Ethical standards or sense of integrity or how we conduct ourselves in life. 2. Niyama: Self-discipline and spiritual observances. 3. Asana: Postures. Since our body is our temple, we must take care of it. A good and healthy body is necessary for mediation and spiritual growth. 4. Pranayam: Breath control or gaining mastery over the respiratory process that is linked directly to our mind and emotions. 5. Pratyahara: A conscious effort and awareness to withdraw from outside stimuli, step back and look at ourselves or become self-observant. 6. Dharana: Concentration. After practicing the first five steps, now we are ready to deal with the distractions of our mind through the practice of concentration. We focus our attention on a single point for an extended period. 7. Dhyana: Mediation or uninterrupted flow of concentration or being keenly aware without focus. Mind is quiet and still. 8. Samadhi: A state of ecstasy or bliss or an interconnectedness with all things or for some profound connection to the Divine. Towards the end od his sutras, Patanjali says: “This penetrating knowledge born of comprehension thus allows one quickly transcend all unhelpful contents of experience.” And then he adds: “When the mind’s clarity and luminescence have been brought to the level of the purity of the innermost person, that is liberation.”
Posted on: Sat, 26 Jul 2014 12:23:24 +0000
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