An Introduction to the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

• Patanjali defines Yoga as the cessation of mental modifications and identifies its main purpose as to still the mind in order to perceive one's true nature.

• He stresses the importance of discipline, self-control, and devotion as necessary qualities for a successful yoga practice.

• "Yoga is restraining the mind-stuff (Chitta) from taking various forms (Vrittis)."

• Patanjali introduces the concept of Kriya Yoga, which consists of self-discipline, self-study, and surrender to a higher power.

He discusses the five afflictions or Kleshas that prevent people from realizing their true nature: ignorance, egoism, attachment, aversion, and fear of death.

1. Ignorance (Avidya):

• Ignorance is the root cause of suffering and prevents people from realizing their true nature.

• It is the mistaken identification of the self with the body, mind, and senses, rather than the true self which is pure consciousness.

• Ignorance can be overcome through the practice of self-study and gaining knowledge of the true nature of the self.

2. Egoism (Asmita):

• Egoism is the identification of the self with the individual ego, leading to a sense of separateness from others and the divine.

• It is overcome through the practice of selflessness and surrender to a higher power.

• "When the yogi loses all sense of separateness, then he attains to the state of absolute freedom."

3. Attachment (Raga):

• Attachment is the desire for pleasure and clinging to pleasurable experiences, which leads to suffering when those experiences end.

• It is overcome through the practice of detachment and non-attachment, recognizing that all things are impermanent and subject to change.

• "When one is free from all attachments, then he attains to the state of absolute freedom."

4. Aversion (Dvesha):

• Aversion is the dislike or aversion to u