This is an inspiring and thorough study of the most important text for the yogis. Patanjali’s second chapter sets forth the practice of Yoga, or sadhana. It discusses Kriya Yoga, which is purification through discipline, study, and self-surrender. It enumerates the five main afflictions, or causes for human suffering, and the methods for eliminating them. Finally, it discusses the first 5 limbs of Raja yoga (yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, and pratyahara), which are the foundations for meditation.
Raja Yoga, the royal path of mind control, is the most comprehensive and scientific approach to God-Realization. The precepts and doctrines of this ancient science were first compiled and explained by Patanjali Maharishi, the greatest psychologist of all time. Never has man’s mind been so completely analyzed. Never has the process of eliminating human suffering been so succinctly presented. The methods of Raja Yoga are profound and timeless. They are the most useful techniques available to modern man beset by the tremendous stresses and strains of our competitive society.