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Yoga is the settling of the mind into silence. When the mind has settled, we are established in our essential nature, which is unbounded Consciousness. Our essential nature is usually overshadowed by the activity of the mind.
Patanjali
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Yoga helps quiet the mind so that we can connect with our true essence, which is limitless consciousness.

This quote by Patanjali illustrates the profound impact of yoga on the human mind and spirit. It suggests that through the practice of yoga, one can calm mental chatter and distractions, thus allowing individuals to access their true nature, which is described as an expansive and unrestrained consciousness. Patanjali emphasizes that this essential self is often obscured by the restless activities of the mind, and yoga serves as a means of returning to this state of pure awareness.

Themes

YogaMindSilenceConsciousnessSelfEssential Nature

In practice

Example use cases

In a yoga class, the instructor emphasizes the importance of settling the mind to connect with one's true self.

More from Patanjali

Knowledge born of the finest discrimination takes us to the farthest shore. It is intuitive, omniscient, and beyond all divisions of time and space.
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