The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

The Yoga Sutras written by the Hindu philosopher Patanjali between 200 BC and 300 AD are considered the highest reference in terms of yogic philosophy. The Sanskrit word Sultra means aphorism, and there are a total of 195 that make up the four chapters (padas) of the Yoga Sutras from Patanjali: samadhi pada (superconsciousness), sadhana pada (practice), vibhuti pada (Psychic powers), Kaivalya Pada (release). samadhi pada Samadhi it refers to superconsciousness, and means absorption, unity consciousness, or ecstasy. The text begins with one of the various definitions of Yoga found throughout the Yoga Sutras, and extends explaining the different techniques to reach this state. Here are two important methods that are key to achieving this: Abhyasa (constant practice) and vairagya (detachment and disidentification). sadhana pada Sadhana is the means or the practice that Patanjali calls Kriya Yoga. This is divided into Tapas (austerity), swadhyaya (self-study) and ishwara pranidhana (abandonment to the divine will). Also listed are the Kleshas (impediments) that are Aviya (ignorance), Amita (ego), Raga (desire), Dwesha (aversion), Abhinivesha (fear of death). vibhuti pada It means the manifestation of psychic powers. Listed here are the psychic powers that can be obtained by a yogi through Samyama Yoga (internal yoga), such as levitation, displacement in space, subtlety of the senses; or the ability of physical powers like becoming heavy, light, etc. Kaivalya Pada Kaivalya means liberation. This term refers to the ultimate goal to which Yoga tends. It is about remaining in a state of splendid consciousness, uncontaminated from the conditioning of the mind or thought. So far a brushstroke to give you a rough idea, although as you can imagine, Patanjali's work is a jewel that deserves a deep study that will undoubtedly lead you to the vast knowledge of the mind. Irune