Yoga Sutra 2.50:

Bahya-Abhyantara-Stambha-Vrttir Desha-Kala-Sankhyabhih Paridrshto Dirgha-Suksmah

Summary

Yoga Sutra 2.50 states: “Bahya-Abhyantara-Stambha-Vrttir Desha-Kala-Sankhyabhih Paridrshto Dirgha-Suksmah.” This sutra explains that pranayama (breath control) involves regulating the exhalation (bahya), inhalation (abhyantara), and retention (stambha) of breath, observed by place (desha), time (kala), and number (sankhya), and can become prolonged (dirgha) and subtle (suksmah).

Analysis

Bahya

• Translation: External or exhalation.
• Meaning: Bahya refers to the outward movement of breath, or exhalation.

Abhyantara

• Translation: Internal or inhalation.
• Meaning: Abhyantara refers to the inward movement of breath, or inhalation.

Stambha

• Translation: Retention or holding.
• Meaning: Stambha signifies the retention or holding of the breath, either after inhalation or exhalation.

Vrttir

• Translation: Function or mode.
• Meaning: Vrttir refers to the different modes or operations of breathing.

Desha

• Translation: Place or region.
• Meaning: Desha indicates the focus on a particular area or region, such as the chest or abdomen, during pranayama practice.

Kala

• Translation: Time or duration.
• Meaning: Kala signifies the duration of each breath, including the time taken for inhalation, exhalation, and retention.

Sankhya

• Translation: Number or count.
• Meaning: Sankhya refers to the number of breaths or the count of breaths taken during the practice.

Paridrshto

• Translation: Observed or measured.
• Meaning: Paridrshto means observed or carefully measured.

Dirgha

• Translation: Prolonged or extended.
• Meaning: Dirgha signifies the extension or prolongation of breath, making it long and steady.

Suksmah

• Translation: Subtle or refined.
• Meaning: Suksmah refers to the subtlety or refinement of the breath, making it smooth and delicate.

Significance of the Sutra

Yoga Sutra 2.50 provides detailed instructions for the practice of pranayama, emphasizing the regulation of breath through careful observation and control. By focusing on the place, time, and number of breaths, practitioners can achieve a prolonged and refined breath, enhancing their physical and mental well-being. This sutra underscores the importance of mindful and precise breath control in achieving a balanced and harmonious state of mind and body.

Common Interpretations

Traditional Interpretation

In traditional yoga teachings, this sutra is interpreted as providing a comprehensive guide for pranayama practice. Practitioners are encouraged to focus on the different aspects of breath control, including exhalation, inhalation, and retention, while paying attention to the place, time, and number of breaths. This detailed approach helps to deepen the practice and achieve greater mastery over the breath.

Modern Interpretation

In modern contexts, this sutra is often understood as a principle of mindful breathing and breath awareness. Practitioners are encouraged to observe and regulate their breath in a systematic and precise manner, promoting physical and mental relaxation. This interpretation emphasizes the practical benefits of pranayama in reducing stress, enhancing concentration, and improving overall health.

Yoga Sutra 2.50 provides valuable insight into the practice of pranayama. Whether approached through traditional or modern lenses, its teachings underscore the importance of careful and mindful breath control in achieving a balanced and harmonious state of mind and body.