Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras are a cornerstone of yogic philosophy, offering profound insights into the workings of the mind and the true purpose of yoga. The celebrated second sutra encapsulates the very essence of yoga: yogaḥ citta-vṛtti-nirodhaḥ. In this article, revered Gurudev Anandmurti Gurumaa offers an insightful exposition on this timeless aphorism, revealing its intended meaning.

Rishi Patanjali states that yoga begins with righteous conduct and discipline. Accordingly, yama and niyama are considered the first two limbs of ashtanga yoga. With this foundation in place—and under the guidance of a competent teacher—the practitioner can progress further on the path of sadhana.

The discipline of yoga doesn’t begin—or end—with asanas. Just as a tree can bear flowers only with its roots deep in the earth, the yoga aspirant must carefully cultivate certain foundational values without which the flower of meditativeness won’t bloom. Sage Patanjali has grouped them into five yamas (restraints) and niyamas (observances), which purify the mind and prepare the ground for sadhana. In this article, revered Gurudev Anandmurti Gurumaa’s profound insights guide us...