Raja Yoga Selection Number 46, for Wednesday, April 25, 2012

[from Chapter I: "Samadhi Pada- On Contemplations"]
I.30. VYAADHI-STYAANA-SAMSHAYA-PRAMAADAALASYAA-VIRATI-BHRAANTI-
DARSHANAALABDHABHOOMI-KATVAANAVASTHITATVAANI CITTA-VIKSHEPAAS
TE 'NTARAAYAAH.
'The obstacles to Realization are disease, mental torpor, doubt,
indifference, laziness, craving for pleasure, delusion, inability to
practice and maintain concentration, and restlessness of mind due to
distraction'.

Commentary:
If the body is not healthy, cosmic consciousness cannot be reached.
The practice of 'asanas' and 'pranayama' wards off disease and helps to
maintain alertness. Doubt and the various mental obstacles can be
dispelled by the spiritual experiences that come through meditation.
Especially when progress seems to be at a standstill, it is essential to
plod on doggedly with the practice. Yoga, like any other kind of learning,
is never a straight ascent; there are ups and downs and plateaus. Bear
this in mind, do not become discouraged, and be aware that all seekers
encounter these same obstacles. They should be regarded as challenges
which introduce growth opportunities to develop strength. With regularity
in practice, the mind eventually rights itself.

* More Patanjali Yoga Sutra verses with
commentary by Swami Vishnu-devananda
available at:
http://www.sivananda.org/publications/quotes/rajayoga_quote.html