035. Sleep. Positive nothingness.

In Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, the essence and objective of yoga are encapsulated in the phrase "yogascittavrittinirodhah." This sutra succinctly defines yoga as the cessation of the fluctuations of the mind. 

Jeff revisits this fundamental concept, emphasizing the importance of understanding the nature of the mind, or "citta," and its fluctuations, known as "vrittis."

These vrittis, or mental fluctuations, serve as the modifying agents of the inputs that enter the mind. They can be categorized as painful or not painful, as delineated by the Sanskrit terms "Klista" and "Aklista." 

Jeff underscores how these fluctuations, known as vrittis, shape our experiences and perceptions, influencing our emotional states and responses to the world. Understanding these vrittis is crucial in our journey towards mental well-being.

Among these vrittis, "nidra" is a unique state characterized by deep, restorative sleep. While nidra may seem like a positive experience of nothingness, it is essential to recognize that it is still a modification of the mind. Even in deep sleep, the mind remains active, albeit in a different capacity, highlighting the pervasive influence of mental fluctuations on our consciousness.