- The Power and Control of the Mind

Patanjali Yoga Sutras

There is no study so inspiring in the world as the study of the mind, its latent powers, the methods of its control, and its spiritual enlightenment. From remote antiquity to the present day, people have been striving to fathom the depths of the mind, and to channelize mental energy for solving various problems of life. 

Centuries before Christ, Sage Patanjali presented the study of mind in the form of aphorisms (Sutras) based upon the experiences and findings of ancient seers. The Sutras literally mean "threads, " so called because they thread numerous thoughts together in a succinct manner, allowing an aspirant to easily commit them to memory, and to dwell upon them according to his convenience. And it is because of this Sutra style of writing that even when printing was not possible, people retained the scriptures through memory. This is also the reason why the Sutras retained their original purity; they have been passed on from century to century, undiluted, undistorted and unadulterated. However, due to the brevity of their form, without proper guidance it is difficult to understand the teachings contained in them. 

The Raja Yoga Sutras give the profoundest insight into the total workings of the mind. It is amazing how, when this profound text of mystic psychology is studied, facts of the mind are revealed which are yet to be recognized, appreciated and admired by the leading psychologists and parapsychologists of today.

Various commentaries exist on these Sutras, but most of them have ignored the practical need of aspirants. This book, originating from the inspiring pen of Author Sri Swami Jyotir Maya Nanda, was especially written so that anyone can put this unsurpassed teaching into practice in his daily life. 

Raja Yoga forms the foundation of all systems of Yoga, in spite of the apparent differences that exist among their philosophies. The importance of the Raja Yogic system of concentration, meditation and Samadhi is unanimously accepted by all systems - advancement in Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Jnana Yoga, or in a blend of these Yogas, or in Kundalini Yoga, in Tantra Yoga, or in whatever form of Yoga chosen, the eight limbs of Yoga need to be practiced as outlined in these Sutras. 

Various practical methods have been given in this book to calm the agitated mind, to cultivate virtues, and to root out the bitter complexes of the past that are lodged in the unconscious mind. Anyone who studies this book can become an expert psychoanalyst for himself, and can handle his psychological problems in an effective manner, and in turn, will naturally become an inspiration to others around him. Just as it is impossible for a flower to bloom without spreading its fragrance to its neighborhood, much in the same manner it is impossible for a human being to discover the treasure of spiritual values deep within his soul through mastery over the mind without sharing it with others around him. 

In fact, self-culture is the most effective form of serving humanity. Men like Buddha, Jesus, Moses, and Mohammed were great Yogis of the past. Ramana Maharshi, Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, Mahatma Gandhi, Sri Swami Sivananda and others were great Yogis of recent times. Through their shining examples they have demonstrated the far-reaching results that are possible by attaining mastery over the mind and senses.

As presented by Sri Swami Jyotir Maya Nanda, this is a concise text dealing with Raja Yoga, which includes the workings of the mind, the method of controlling the thoughts, desires and sentiments, the art of cultivating virtuous qualities, the mystic secret of unfolding the great psychic powers, and ultimately, the technique of attaining Self-realization - the state of perfect freedom from the cycles of birth and death, This book is indeed a priceless treasure for aspirants desirous of attaining spiritual advancement. Even those who do not wish to take up a serious path leading to Self-realization, but who are bent upon attaining a moderate degree of success and prosperity in life, will be immensely benefited by this book. May you discover the boundless resources of mental energy within yourself, and thus live a life bathed in the light of wisdom and bliss.

- Swami Lalitananda