Mind control is central to yoga practice. Therefore, after describing the symptoms of the highest stage of the meditation yoga, Krishna gives 3 golden keys for success in controlling our mind.
- Control the senses (viniyamya) by the mind by (i) practicing yoga with determination (niścayena) and without deviation (‘nirviṇṇa-cetasā), and (ii) abandoning all material desires born of mental speculation (tyaktvā sarvān aśeṣataḥ). (BG 6.24)
- Fix the mind exclusively on the goal of the spiritual self: Gradually, step by step, become fixed on the ultimate purpose by the intelligence with full conviction. (BG 6.25)
- Bring the wandering mind under the control of the spiritual self: Whenever and wherever the mind wanders, detect it, and bring the mind under the control of the self. (BG 6.26)
Notice the similarity between this section and a section in Chapter 2, wherein Krishna gives the formula for controlling our senses. In summary, the senses are going to be in control only if the mind is in control, and the mind is going to be in control only if it is connected with the divine self. Our divine self is uncovered by reconnecting with the source of our existence, Krishna. A suitable practice is recommended in the next section.
When the mind is pacified, the yogi experiences freedom from all internal contamination characterized by (i) the highest perfection of happiness – free from passion, and (ii) qualitative oneness. (BG 6.27–28) The perfected yogi experiences the presence of Supersoul (Krishna) in everyone and sees everything resting in Krishna, leading to equal vision. (BG 6.29–32)
