Mr. Cohen, a resident disciple, was speaking of yoga method.
Maharshi remarked: Patanjali’s first sutra is applicable to all systems of yoga. The aim is the cessation of mental activities. The methods differ. So long as there is effort made towards that goal it is called yoga. The effort is the yoga.
The cessation can be brought about in so many ways:
(1) By examining the mind itself. When the mind is examined its activities cease automatically. This is the method of . The pure mind is the Self.
(2) Looking for the source of the mind is another method. The source may be said to be God or Self or consciousness.
(3) Concentrating upon one thought makes all other thoughts disappear. Finally that thought also disappears.
(4) .
All methods are one and the same inasmuch as they all tend to the same goal.
It is necessary to be aware while controlling thoughts. Otherwise it will lead to sleep. That awareness is the chief factor is indicated by the fact of Patanjali emphasising Pratyāhārā, Dhāranā, , even after . Prānāyāma makes the mind steady and suppresses thoughts. Then why develop further? Because awareness then is the one necessary factor. Such states can be imitated by taking morphia, chloroform, etc. They do not lead to MOKSHA because they lack awareness.