It defines the end of meditation, what is enlightenment, what is Samadhi.
Samadhipadah: spiritual enlightenment
This Chapter is composed of 51 sutras and consists of:
- Definition of yoga
- Definition of mind and its functions
- How the mind reaches the state of Yoga
- Characteristics and initial qualities of practicing Yoga
- God, as universal teacher
- Potential disruptions in the path of Yoga: symptoms and treatment
- Rewarding effects of the progressive concentration of mind
Summary: the definition and goal of Yoga. The first proposal proposes the effort to stay there and the obstacles that may prevent you to get there:
Viadhi: Illness
Styana: Apathy, failure, fear of change, mental stagnation
Samshaya: Doubts (Doubt is the fire that burns everything)
Pramada: Negligence, carelessness, inattention, knowing the situation and ignoring it
Aalasya: Fatigue, physical laziness
Avirati: Lust, lack of moderation
Bhrantidarshana: Living in illusions, false perception
Anavasthitatvani: Lack of perseverance, inability to finish something, not progressing
Citaviksepah: Regression, instability
These obstacles cause us the following symptoms, distracting us more:
- Mental discomfort or suffering
- Negative thoughts
- Agitation of body or bodily discomfort
- Inability to control breathing or irregular breathing
*Practices to calm the mind:
- Stay focused on your path
- Cultivating equanimity
- Breathing exercises – Pranayama
- Observing how you use your senses
- Being inspired by a Guru or other wise individuals
- Meditating on what you want
Next week we will talk about: Chaper II. Sadhanapadah – (Yoga Sutras de Patanjali)