175. Elevate. The path to peace.

The wisdom for today comes from Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, focusing on the insightful section from 1:33 to 1:39. These sutras collectively offer tools to cultivate stillness, concentration, and clarity in the mind. As we progress through this section, it’s natural to develop favorites. For many, 1:33 and 1:34 stand out for their immediate practicality and impact.

1:33 provides the keys—Maitrī (friendliness), Karuṇā (compassion), Mudita (joy), and Upekṣā (equanimity)—to address the people and circumstances of life with grace. These attitudes help us navigate the complexities of relationships and emotions, offering a roadmap to inner peace. When applied consistently, they transform how we interact with the world, dissolving envy, intolerance, and judgment.

1:34 shifts the focus inward, showing us how the breath can be a profound tool for cultivating calm and concentration. By pausing and focusing on the exhalation, we engage the parasympathetic nervous system, naturally slowing the heart rate and calming the mind. It’s a simple yet transformative practice that highlights the power of the breath in achieving peace and presence.

Beyond these favorites, the other sutras in this section invite us to explore additional practices for steadying the mind. Concentration on a great mind (as described in 1:37) and the wisdom gained from dreams or deep sleep (from 1:38) are presented as practical ways to deepen our awareness and stability.

Today, we arrive at 1:39, which reads in Sanskrit:
यथाभिमतध्यानाद्वा।
Yathā-abhimata-dhyānād-vā.
This sutra translates to: “Or by meditating on anything one chooses that is elevating.”

This sutra reveals the genius of Patanjali’s approach to yoga. Recognizing the diversity of human experiences, inclinations, and preferences, he offers a practice that is adaptable to the individual. As Swami Satchidananda notes, 1:39 encourages us to meditate on anything uplifting or inspiring. This openness is a testament to yoga’s inclusivity—it is a philosophy large enough to accommodate all paths leading toward the stilling of the mind (citta vṛtti nirodhah).

Whether it’s a beautiful piece of art, the majesty of nature, a beloved teacher, or a profound idea, the focus should be on what elevates and inspires us. This sutra reminds us that yoga is not about rigid dogma; it’s about finding what resonates deeply within us and using that as a stepping stone toward mindfulness and inner stillness.

Patanjali’s pragmatism shines here. He understands that different people are drawn to different practices based on their dispositions, tastes, and life experiences. This flexibility allows yoga to remain relevant and effective for all, regardless of their beliefs or cultural background.

As you reflect on 1:39, consider what inspires you and elevates your spirit. It might be a memory, a mantra, a personal goal, or even a feeling of gratitude. Let that become your anchor for meditation, a practice that brings clarity, joy, and peace into your life. This is the true power of Patanjali—offering timeless wisdom that meets us where we are and guides us gently toward inner transformation.