(^2424) YOGA AND TOTAL HEALTH • January 2018YOGA AND TOTAL HEALTH • January 2018
The obstacles and difficulties referred to in the previous Sutra are discussed here.
These obstacles are the usual kind that come in our way and lead to distractions
of the mind. Disease is one. An ailing body cannot achieve total concentration. A
restless or incompetent mind cannot be kept engaged in devotional work either,
and hence is an obstacle too. So are doubts and uncertainties. Our continuous
engagement in worldly affairs and lack of enthusiasm in practices leading up to
concentration is the fourth obstacle, delusion. Sloth (dullness of body and mind),
desires for sensory pleasures and incorrect perceptions (considering lower stage
to be higher and vice versa) are all major obstacles as well. Non-attainment of any
Yogic state of concentration and the inability to remain in the Higher state are the
final obstacles mentioned.
Unfortunately, these nine obstacles are an inherent part of our personality. Even
the best of men have them in some capacity. They are all hindrances in the learning
of yoga because of all the distractions they lead to. That makes them the greatest
enemies and highlights the importance of overcoming them.
All the impediments or obstacles mentioned herein can be removed though
Ishvarapranidhan, because all the antidotes to such obstacles are obtained through
special devotion to God. By doing so, a pure Sattvic intellect is developed and the
Yo g i gradually gains powers to resist such obstacles.
The suggested approach is to maintain a clear objective and make sustained,
religious efforts in this direction. A conventional stopwatch approach would
not help. Over time, we will be able to derive some strength, confidence and
understanding. This would help us move forward – slowly and steadily.
Chapter 1.30
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Vyadhi Styana Samsaya Pramada Alasya Avirati Bhrantidarshana
Alabdhabhumikatva Anavasthitatvani Cittavikshepah Te Antarayah
he Yoga Sutras
T
Samar Chauhan
- A Perspective
of Patanjali