The 9 Obstacles on the Path of Yoga

Patanjali describes 9 obstacles (Antarayas) that hinder progress on the path of yoga:

  1. Vyadhi: Physical diseases
  2. Styana: Mental lethargy (昏睡)
  3. Samshaya: Doubt about oneself, technique, or teacher
  4. Pramada: Carelessness
  5. Alasya: Laziness
  6. Avirati: Stubborn attachment to sense objects
  7. Bhranta Darshana: Illusions or hallucinations (幻觉, 幻视, 幻听)
  8. Alabdha Bhumikatva: Failure to attain a firm ground
  9. Anavastitatva: Inability to maintain a firm ground

Overcoming the Obstacles

  • Dukkha: Sadness
  • Dharmanasya: Bitterness
  • Angame Jatwa: Restlessness or lack of coordination in the body
  • Irregular Breathing: Focus on extending the breath:
    • When unhappy, practice longer exhalations.
    • When happy, practice longer inhalations.

Dealing with Mental States

Our minds are troubled when dwelling on duality. A divided mind is the root cause of fear and misery, as it creates unnecessary choices.

Patanjali Categorizes People into Four Types:

  1. Happy People: Befriend them.
  2. Unhappy People: Show compassion (karuna) without pity, as pity can worsen their state.
  3. People Doing Good Acts (Blessed): Feel happy for them.
  4. People Doing Harmful Acts (Sinful): Ignore their actions or show compassionate guidance without judgment.

Insight:

  • Emotions and mental states are contagious.
  • Unhappiness can become a habit. Train your mind to choose happiness.

Mind, Life, and Light

  • Life and Light Are Synonymous:
    • Just as a candle burns based on wax and oxygen, so does life depend on food and energy.
    • The body is like a wick, which burns out after years of functioning.
  • Mind is Like Water: It assumes the shape of the thoughts or ideas you engage with.
  • Mind is Like Air/Energy: It is all-pervading and not bound by location.
  • Vita Raga Vishiyam Bhachitam: A mind liberated from cravings is expansive and free.

Sleep and Dreams

What is Sleep?

  • Sleep is the process of letting go of all identities, cravings, aversions, and even likes/dislikes.
  • In sleep, there is no distinction of gender, wealth, or intelligence—only rest.
  • Meditation mirrors sleep: A state of complete surrender and stillness.

Types of Dreams:

  1. Desire-Fulfillment Dreams: Unfulfilled cravings manifest in dreams.
  2. Stress-Release Dreams: Past stress finds release during dreams.
  3. Intuitive Dreams: Offer glimpses of the future.
  4. Mixed Dreams: A combination of the above three.
  5. Environmental Dreams: Influenced by the place or space you are sleeping in.

Note: Most dreams are a mix of these types, and distinguishing them is often challenging.

Key Takeaway:

Yoga helps overcome obstacles, bring awareness to the mind, transcend duality, and cultivate stillness—both in waking life and sleep. Practice consistently and let go of cravings for lasting peace.

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