The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali
Book One 1.1. Atha yoganusasanam 1.2. Yogah chitta vritti nirodhah 1.3. Tada drastuh svarupe avasthanam The first three sutras introduce the subject and tell us of the goal and meaning of yoga. 1.1. Now the auspicious exposition of yoga is being offered. This is an auspicious occasion. The offering of yoga is made to the student at the right time, once the student has spent some time on an inner search, and therefore when it is likely to make sense and be useful. 1.2. Yoga is the stilling of the fluctuations in the mind (citta vritti) or a calming in one's state of being. The thoughts in the mind are calmed through the practice of postures, breath work, and concentration, leading to meditation. A mindful approach is required as meditation is interlinked with the physical side of yoga. As the nature of the mind is to fluctuate, so yoga ends up being a way of life. 1.3. Then the practitioner is able to see clearly and dwell joyfully in his/her true nature, wh...