Patañjali's Yogasūtra I.15

Yogasūtra of Patañjali | Viniyoga with Dr Kausthub Desikachar

Dr. Kausthub Desikachar is the current lineage holder of the Viniyoga® tradition worldwide. He succeeds his father TKV Desikachar, and his grandfather T Krishnamacharya. His objectives include the sharing of the authentic teachings of Yoga to the modern era, as well as building bridges between different healing modalities to promote physical, emotional social and spiritual health.

I.15 - dṛṣṭa-ānuśravika-viṣaya-vitṛṣṇasya vaśīkāra-saṁjñā-vairāgyam

As we develop our practice in an appropriate manner, we find that the ability to discipline ourselves and reject intrusive influences grows. Eventually, we may reach a high level of detachment.

Detachment is an absence of any cravings, either for the fulfilment of senses or for extraordinary experiences.

Practice gives benefits such as physical strength, dexterity, heightened awareness and sensitivity. There may also be the temptation to use our new skills to prove our spiritual prowess. These are incidental benefits and also a distraction, and if we succumb to them, we are in danger of losing sight of the path to reach the true state of Yoga.