The Yoga Sutra-s of Patanjali A peaceful state of mind

'Each time we begin the study of the Yoga Sutra we understand more profoundly - within our hearts - the ever powerful wisdom they impart'

Nischala Joy Devi

The sutra-s believed to be at least two thousand years old, lead us to the very heart of Yoga. The fundamental concept contained in the sutra-s is a choice of different ways, paths, to reduce suffering. This is the goal of the sutra-s – freedom from suffering. Yoga philosophy recognises the existence of the human mind and acknowledges its role in our daily functioning.  According to Patanajali’s study of the functioning of the mind, ‘it is both the source of and solution to our problems’. In other words, if the mind is agitated, distracted or conditioned by habit, then perception may be inaccurate and problems arise. If, however, the mind is disciplined and focused and free from negative habits, perception is more likely to be accurate and any actions based on this perception will reduce suffering. This is the message contained in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra. Patanjali believed profoundly that each person’s mind is different and therefore different tools are needed to address these needs in order to reduce the mental agitation of different people. He recognised these differences at the physical, energetic and mental level and that is why the sutra-s have a variety of tools to choose from in order to calm the mind, making it more focused. 

 (T K V Desikachar)

Patanjali is the author of the Yoga Sutra-s but little is actually known about him. Some believe him to be the incarnation of the devine serpent Ananta which supports the universe, others believe him to have been a grammarian of his time. The Yoga Sutra-s written in ancient sanskrit are a collection of terse, simple statements, sometimes described as beads threaded one after the other. Each sutra is linked together and the whole 195 sutra-s divided into four chapters.

Introduces the mind, its fluctuations, problems and possibilities.

Introduces the means to help the mind, tools to help you along the path.

Says that the mind, as a tool can be used, and discusses the fruits of our efforts to refine the mind.

Reinforces the idea that whatever happens is essentially within us. It is the freedom to function without being caught in our own mind stuff!