Yogash Chitta-Vritti-Nirodhah (Yoga Sutra 1.2)
योगश्चित्तवृत्तिनिरोधः
Also known as: yogash chitta vritti nirodhah · yoga sutra 1.2 · patanjali yoga sutra 1.2 · definition of yoga
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✦ Meaning
This is the foundational and most famous definition of yoga in the entire tradition — the second aphorism of Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. It declares that yoga is the stilling of the fluctuations (vrittis) of the mind-stuff (chitta). When the restless waves of thought are quieted, the seer abides in its own true nature, which is the goal of all yoga.
Origin & Story
Patanjali Yoga Sutras 1.2 · Patanjali · Classical (c. 2nd century BCE – 4th century CE)
This is the second aphorism of the Samadhi Pada, the first chapter of Maharshi Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. After the opening sutra 'Atha yoganushasanam' (Now, the teaching of yoga), Patanjali immediately gives the definition that has guided practitioners for two millennia: yoga is the stilling of the fluctuations of the mind. It establishes the entire purpose and method of Raja Yoga.
✦ As told in scripture
Generations of yogis have testified that as the thought-waves of the chitta grow still through steady practice, an unshakable inner peace and self-knowledge dawns — the seer resting in its own nature, untouched by the restlessness of the world.
The Mantra
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योगश्चित्तवृत्तिनिरोधः ॥ १.२ ॥ (पदपाठ — योगः चित्त-वृत्ति-निरोधः)
Yogash chitta-vritti-nirodhah || 1.2 || (pada-patha — yogah chitta-vritti-nirodhah)
Meaning:Yoga is the stilling (restraint) of the modifications of the mind.
Word-by-Word Meaning
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Benefits of Chanting Yogash Chitta-Vritti-Nirodhah (Yoga Sutra 1.2)
Provides the classical, authoritative definition of yoga — the cornerstone of Patanjali's entire system of Raja Yoga (Ashtanga Yoga).
Contemplating it reveals that the true aim of yoga is mastery over the mind, not merely physical postures.
A powerful focus for meditation, turning attention inward toward the stilling of thought-waves.
Cultivates inner peace, mental clarity and one-pointed concentration (ekagrata).
Recited and reflected upon by yoga practitioners worldwide as the heart of yogic philosophy.
Guides the seeker from outward restlessness toward the silent witness within.
How to Chant Yogash Chitta-Vritti-Nirodhah (Yoga Sutra 1.2)
Recite the sutra slowly three times before beginning meditation, letting the meaning settle: that yoga is the quieting of the mind's fluctuations. Then sit and observe the thought-waves arising and dissolving, allowing them to grow still. It is meant to be contemplated as much as chanted — a direct pointer to the practice itself.