Maharishi Patanjali, in his celebrated treatise Patanjali Yoga Sutra, wrote: “Tada drashtuhu swarupe avasthanam” (Sutra 3), implying that the seer then rests in his or her own true nature. This exalted state can be achieved only through a disciplined mind. Discipline essentially means uniting oneself and integrating the many loose ends of one’s existence.
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It is equally important to understand Sutra 4: “Vrutti sarupyamitarata,” which means that a seeker often identifies with the fluctuations or modulations of the mind.
Nature of the Mind
The human mind is constantly bombarded by innumerable thoughts while simultaneously engaging with the outside world. In a wakeful state, with eyes open, individuals are continuously influenced by the senses—sight, smell, hearing, touch and taste.
At other times, the mind retreats into sleep or inertia, temporarily shutting out sensory perception and turning inward. In such moments, the mind empties itself, attaining a tranquil state that allows it to transform and sometimes achieve something extraordinary.
In such a stage, the quintessential nature—or chitta—of the mind is to cleanse itself of negative and futile thoughts and embrace constructive ones. This process disciplines the mind and helps nurture psychological skills.
A Painter from Milan
A distinguished Italian painter from Milan was deeply fascinated by the works of legendary Indian artist Raja Ravi Varma and the epic Mahabharata. The painter was captivated by the celestial portrayals of Hindu deities created by the iconic Indian master.
Raja Ravi Varma carved a niche for himself by skillfully blending European artistic techniques with Indian sensibilities. Through lithographs, he also made his paintings accessible to art lovers across India.
Inspired by this legacy, the Italian painter embarked on an ambitious journey to depict the story of the Mahabharata on canvas. He visited several libraries, conducted extensive research and spent nearly ten years understanding the nuances, emotions and philosophical undertones of the epic authored by sage Veda Vyasa.
During this period, he psychologically trained and refined his mind. He revisited various incidents from his life, reflected on the meaning of love and affection—qualities that help individuals rise to greater heights. He also experienced the sense of bonding and camaraderie among scholars of the Mahabharata and fellow painters.
The artist empathized with the loneliness that many creative individuals experience and found joy in the altruism and generosity of the artistic community. With gratitude for his Indian friends and a deep appreciation of the epic’s subtlety, he eventually translated his understanding into magnificent works of art. Fundamentally, he developed advanced psychological skills to achieve his goal.
Discipline, Identity and Understanding
Psychological skill sets can broadly be defined as the proficiency or dexterity that an individual develops through rigorous training and life experiences. For this, it is essential to keep the mind open to evolving ideas, concepts and perspectives.
Over time, the human mind grows stronger through understanding individual differences, behavioral refinement and guidance. Continuous practice and discipline create a daily regimen that strengthens and enhances skill sets.
Such a disciplined mind becomes radiant—like fresh dew on rose petals—vibrating with creative ideas and insights.
The Mind Seeks Proof
An untrained mind constantly demands proof. It lacks discipline and remains reluctant to develop psychological skills.
Sutra 5 of the Patanjali Yoga Sutra states: “Vrutayah panchtayyaha klishtaklishtaha,” meaning the modifications of the mind are fivefold and can either cause suffering or remain neutral.
This is further explained in Sutra 6: “Pramanaviparyayavikalpanidra-smrutayaha.” The mind operates in five states—seeking proof, misunderstanding, imagination, sleep and memory.
Natural Stages of the Mind
Though these states may appear paradoxical, they are natural phases of human thought. Doubt often leads to solutions—something every scientist would affirm.
However, it is important to clear the clouds of doubt that surround the mind in order to achieve clarity. This can be accomplished through the psychological skills developed by practice (abhyasa) and discipline.
Examples such as the Italian painter and the legendary archer Arjuna illustrate how focused practice and discipline can strengthen the mind.
As individuals develop psychological skills, they also enhance interpersonal abilities, cognitive capacities, personality traits, attitudes, and expressive and reflective skills. This growth enables individuals to better understand themselves and nature, work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds, respect diversity, and sensitively accept different perspectives and ideologies.
The renowned philosopher Lao Tzu wrote:
“Knowing others is intelligence. Knowing yourself is true wisdom. Mastering others is strength; mastering yourself is true power.”
About the Author
Ravi Valluri is Advisor at Krishnapatnam Railway Company Limited. He has authored both fiction and non-fiction works and is a faculty member at the Art of Living. His latest book is Sita to Abhaya: Have Things Changed? He can be reached at valluri.ravi@gmail.com or via WhatsApp at 9618564024.