Yoga Sutra 2.49:

Tasmin sati śvāsa-praśvāsayor gati-vicchedaḥ prāṇāyāmaḥ

Summary

Yoga Sutra 2.49 states: “Tasmin sati śvāsa-praśvāsayor gati-vicchedaḥ prāṇāyāmaḥ.” This sutra explains that pranayama (control of breath) is the pause in the movement of inhalation (śvāsa) and exhalation (praśvāsa) following mastery of asana.

Analysis

Tasmin Sati

• Translation: Having done that (having mastered).
• Meaning: Tasmin sati refers to the condition or prerequisite of having achieved mastery in asanas (yoga postures).

Śvāsa-Praśvāsa

• Translation: Inhalation and exhalation.
• Meaning: Śvāsa refers to inhalation, and praśvāsa refers to exhalation, the natural movements of the breath.

Gati-Vicchedaḥ

• Translation: Pause or interruption of the movement.
• Meaning: Gati-vicchedaḥ signifies the interruption or regulation of the flow of breath, leading to a state of controlled breathing.

Prāṇāyāmaḥ

• Translation: Breath control.
• Meaning: Prāṇāyāmaḥ refers to the practice of controlling the breath, which involves regulating the inhalation, exhalation, and retention of breath to achieve a balanced state of mind and body.

Significance of the Sutra

Yoga Sutra 2.49 highlights the transition from asana practice to pranayama (breath control). After achieving stability and comfort in the postures, the next step in the yogic path is to control and regulate the breath. Pranayama is essential for calming the mind, increasing concentration, and preparing the practitioner for deeper stages of meditation. This sutra underscores the importance of breath control as a bridge between physical postures and higher states of consciousness.

Common Interpretations

Traditional Interpretation

In traditional yoga teachings, this sutra is interpreted as emphasizing the sequential nature of the eightfold path of yoga. Practitioners are encouraged to master asanas before moving on to pranayama. This approach ensures that the body is prepared and stable enough to practice breath control, which is crucial for advancing to higher stages of meditation and spiritual growth.

Modern Interpretation

In modern contexts, this sutra is often understood as a principle of integrating breath awareness into physical practice. Practitioners are encouraged to focus on their breath during yoga postures and gradually transition to dedicated breath control exercises. This practice helps to enhance mental clarity, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being. This interpretation emphasizes the practical benefits of pranayama in enhancing both physical and mental health.

Yoga Sutra 2.49 provides valuable insight into the practice of pranayama. Whether approached through traditional or modern lenses, its teachings underscore the importance of breath control in achieving a balanced and harmonious state of mind and body.