Patanjali Yogasutra 1.31
दुःखदौर्मनस्याङ्गमेजयत्वश्वासप्रश्वासा विक्षेपसहभुवः ॥ १.३१॥
"Grief, mental distress, tremor of the body, and irregular breathing accompany the distractions of the mind."
Patanjali's Yogasutra 1.31 highlights the physical and mental symptoms that arise when the mind is distracted or disturbed. The verse lists four specific symptoms: grief (duḥkha), mental distress (daurmanasya), tremor of the body (aṅgamejayatva), and irregular breathing (śvāsa-praśvāsa). These symptoms are indicative of a mind that is not in a state of concentration or focus. When the mind is scattered, it affects both the mental and physical state of an individual, leading to these disturbances.
The verse emphasizes the interconnectedness of the mind and body. When the mind is agitated, it manifests physically through tremors and irregular breathing. This highlights the importance of mental stability and concentration in achieving overall well-being. The practice of yoga aims to bring the mind to a state of calm and focus, thereby alleviating these symptoms. By understanding and addressing the root cause of these disturbances, one can work towards achieving a balanced and harmonious state of being.
Swami Vivekanand says:
"Concentration will bring perfect repose to mind and body every time it is practised. When the practice has been misdirected, or not controlled enough, these disturbances come. Repetition of Om and self-surrender to the Lord will strengthen the mind, and bring fresh energy. The nervous shakings will come to almost everyone. Do not mind them at all, but keep on practising. Practice will cure them, and make the seat firm."
In the broader context of the Yogasutras, this verse serves as a reminder of the obstacles that practitioners may face on their journey towards Self-Realization. It underscores the importance of consistent practice to overcome these challenges. By recognizing these symptoms as signs of distraction, practitioners can take proactive steps to restore their focus and continue their path towards spiritual growth.
Comparison with Similar Verses from Vedic Texts
Bhagavad Gita 6.34
चञ्चलं हि मनः कृष्ण प्रमाथि बलवद् दृढम् ।
तस्याहं निग्रहं मन्ये वायोरिव सुदुष्करम् ॥ ६.३४ ॥
"For the mind is restless, turbulent, obstinate, and very strong, O Krishna, and to subdue it, I think, is more difficult than controlling the wind."
This verse from the Bhagavad Gita echoes the challenges of controlling the mind, similar to the distractions mentioned in Yogasutra 1.31. It emphasizes the difficulty of mastering the mind, comparing it to the near-impossible task of controlling the wind.
Mundaka Upanishad 3.2.4
न चक्षुषा गृह्यते नापि वाचा नान्यैर्देवैस्तपसा कर्मण वा ।
ज्ञानप्रसादेन विशुद्धसत्त्वः ततो पश्यते निष्कलं ध्यायमानः ॥ ३.२.४ ॥
"The Self cannot be known through study of the scriptures, nor through intellect, nor through hearing learned discourses. It can be attained only by those whom the Self chooses. To such a one, the Self reveals its True Nature."
This verse from the Mundaka Upanishad highlights the importance of purity and Grace in attaining Self-Realization. It aligns with the idea in Yogasutra 1.31 that distractions and disturbances must be overcome to achieve a Higher State of Consciousness.
Yoga Vashishta 6.1.32
मन एव मनुष्याणां कारणं बन्धमोक्षयोः ।
बन्धाय विषयासक्तं मुक्त्यै निर्विषयं स्मृतम् ॥ ६.१.३२ ॥
"The mind alone is the cause of bondage and liberation for human beings. Attached to objects, it leads to bondage; free from objects, it leads to liberation."
This verse from the Yoga Vashishta emphasizes the role of the mind in achieving Realization. It resonates with the message of Yogasutra 1.31, highlighting the need to overcome mental distractions and attachments to attain freedom and peace.
These verses collectively underscore the significance of mastering the mind to overcome distractions and achieve spiritual growth, aligning with the teachings of Patanjali's Yogasutra.
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