166. Prachardana. Expel the breath and confusion.

In Yoga Sutras 1:33 to 1:39, Patanjali provides a range of practical approaches to help us concentrate the mind and cultivate greater clarity. These techniques offer tools for navigating obstacles, aligning with the overarching goal of citta vritti nirodhah—stilling the fluctuations of the mind. Concentrating on a "tattva," or principle, creates focus and stability in our practice. This section of the sutras builds upon acknowledging that the spiritual path is not without challenges, and concentration helps us overcome these barriers.

Sutra 1:33, which we have already explored, introduces four key attitudes—friendliness, compassion, joy, and equanimity—that can help us clear mental obstacles and cultivate peace of mind. These practices prepare us for deeper concentration by fostering emotional balance and clarity.

Moving forward, Sutra 1:34 introduces the breath as a powerful tool for concentration and clarity. The sutra reads:

"प्रच्छर्दनविधारणाभ्यां वा प्राणस्य"
prachardana-vidhāraṇābhyāṁ vā prāṇasya

Translated, it means:
"Or by the practice of exhalation and retention of the breath, the mind can be calmed."

Prachardhana refers to exhaling or expelling the breath, while vidhāraṇa signifies retaining or holding it. Combined, these practices suggest a deliberate focus on the breath, particularly the control of exhalation and retention, to cultivate a calm and concentrated mind. The term prāṇasya underscores that this is physical breathing and an engagement with the prana, the vital life force.

Patanjali emphasizes that breath control—through methods such as retention—acts as a bridge to inner stability. This aligns with modern understanding, where breathwork practices are known to influence the nervous system, calming the mind and fostering greater focus. Techniques like these prepare the practitioner for deeper states of meditation and mental clarity.

The progression from Sutra 1:33 to 1:34 reflects the layered approach of the Yoga Sutras, where cultivating the right attitudes and emotional states through friendliness, compassion, joy, and equanimity lays the foundation for focusing on breath control. Together, these practices provide a holistic approach to concentration, enabling us to move beyond mental distractions and closer to the goal of yoga.