Bhagavad Gita — Dhyana Yoga, Shloka 36
Atma Samyama Yoga
असंयतात्मना योगो दुष्प्राप इति मे मतिः । वश्यात्मना तु यतता शक्योऽवाप्तुमुपायतः ॥ ६.३६ ॥
asaṁyatātmanā yogo duṣprāpa iti me matiḥ | vaśyātmanā tu yatatā śakyo 'vāptum upāyataḥ || 6.36 ||
In My view, yoga is difficult to attain for one whose self is uncontrolled; but for one who is self-controlled and strives, it can be attained by proper means.
Yoga is hard to attain by one who is uncontrolled; but by the self-controlled who strives, it can be attained by proper means—this is My view.
In my judgment, yoga is difficult to obtain for one whose self is undisciplined; but for one whose self is governable and who strives, it can be attained by appropriate methods.
The verse contrasts lack of discipline (asaṁyata-ātman) with governability (vaśya-ātman). ‘Upāyataḥ’ highlights pragmatic means—consistent with the chapter’s emphasis on technique rather than mere aspiration.
FAQs
It distinguishes intention from capacity: without training, impulses dominate; with governable habits and steady effort, mental regulation becomes achievable.
The verse implies that access to higher insight depends on preparatory transformation; metaphysical claims are linked to a discipline of the person.
It consolidates Krishna’s response: the mind is difficult, but yoga is attainable under conditions of self-regulation and correct method.
It can be read as endorsing structured training plans (incremental goals, consistent routines) over sporadic effort, especially for attention and emotion regulation.