Sadhana Pada
Sadhana Pada
The Sādhana Pada, or “Chapter on Practice,” is the second section of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras and focuses on the practical methods to attain the goal of yoga described in the first chapter. While the Samadhi Pada explains the theory of stilling the mind, the Sādhana Pada teaches how to achieve that state through effort and discipline. Patanjali begins with the concept of Kriya Yoga, which includes three key practices: Tapas (austerity and self-control), Svadhyaya (self-study and study of sacred texts), and Ishvara Pranidhana (surrender to God or the Divine Consciousness). These three together purify the body, mind, and heart, making the seeker calm, humble, and spiritually prepared for deeper meditation.
Next, Patanjali explains the Kleshas, or afflictions, that are the root causes of human suffering. There are five: Avidya (ignorance), Asmita (ego or false identity), Raga (attachment), Dvesha (aversion), and Abhinivesha (fear of death or clinging to life). These mental impurities keep the soul bound to worldly desires and sorrow. Ignorance is the source of all the others because it makes us forget our true nature as pure consciousness. Through the practice of yoga, these Kleshas become weaker and are eventually dissolved. When they vanish, the inner light of wisdom shines, and the yogi perceives reality without distortion.
In this chapter, Patanjali also introduces the Ashtanga Yoga, the Eightfold Path that forms the heart of his system. The eight limbs are Yama (ethical conduct), Niyama (personal discipline), Asana (physical posture), Pranayama (control of breath), Pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses), Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation), and Samadhi (union or absorption). The first five are external disciplines that prepare the body and mind for meditation, while the last three are internal practices leading directly to spiritual realization. Patanjali emphasizes that progress on this path is gradual and must be supported by perseverance, purity, and faith.
Finally, the Sādhana Pada describes how constant practice of these eight limbs removes impurities and brings clarity to the mind. As the mind becomes calm and steady, it reflects the Self like a clear mirror. The yogi develops balance, compassion, and inner strength, no longer disturbed by pleasure or pain, gain or loss. When the senses, breath, and thoughts come under perfect control, the seeker experiences inner stillness and freedom. Thus, the Sādhana Pada serves as a complete guide to transforming life into a journey of self-discipline, awareness, and divine realization — leading from human limitation to spiritual liberation.
