Yoga Sutras of Patanjali translated by Yogi Kalinath - Chapter 3, Verse 11

Pada 3, Sutra 11

Sanskrit Verse

Savaarthataikaagratayoh ksayodayau cittasya samaadhi-parinaamah

Translation

When there is a decline in distractions and one-pointedness arises, the mind enters the transformation state of Samadhi or Cognitive Absorption.

Interpretation

In verity, the mind oscillates between being scattered, caught up in both external (through the senses) and internal (memories, fantasies and anticipations) distractions, and being one-pointed.

It is a constant tug of war. The waves of the mind need to be subdued in order to experience stillness and silence, the foreground to experiencing Consciousness itself through absorption into the essence of mind beyond any fluctuations.

Reflection

Not only are you not the body but you are also not the mind and its contents.