Chapter 6 Verse 36
Dhyān Yog
असंयतात्मना योगो दुष्प्राप इति मे मतिः। वश्यात्मना तु यतता शक्योऽवाप्तुमुपायतः।।6.36।।
asaṅyatātmanā yogo duṣhprāpa iti me matiḥ vaśhyātmanā tu yatatā śhakyo ’vāptum upāyataḥ
Word Meanings
| asanyata-ātmanā | one whose mind is unbridled |
| yogaḥ | Yog |
| duṣhprāpaḥ | difficult to attain |
| iti | thus |
| me | my |
| matiḥ | opinion |
| vaśhya-ātmanā | by one whose mind is controlled |
| tu | but |
| yatatā | one who strives |
| śhakyaḥ | possible |
| avāptum | to achieve |
| upāyataḥ | by right means |
Translation
I think Yoga is hard to be attained by one with an uncontrolled self, but the self-controlled and striving one can attain it by the appropriate means.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
This verse says that inner union (yoga) is hard to reach if your mind and desires run wild. When the self is uncontrolled, practice stalls and progress becomes difficult.
But if you discipline the mind and keep trying with the right methods, you can attain yoga. The promise is practical: steady effort plus proper technique leads to real change.
The line also shows compassion — it is not impossible, only demanding. Real spiritual growth comes from small, steady habits, guidance, and self-restraint.
Life Application
- Start small and consistent: five to ten minutes of focused breathing or mindful sitting every day builds control more than occasional long sessions.
- Reduce immediate temptations: limit phone/social media use, simplify meals, and set clear times for work and rest to calm the mind.
- Learn and follow a simple method (breath work, mantra, ethical rules) and keep practicing; discipline and sensible guidance beat erratic effort.
Reflection Question
Where in my daily routine can I add one small habit to steady my mind and support steady effort?