Shloka 8
Kapila Describes Bhakti-Saturated Aṣṭāṅga-Yoga and Meditation on the Lord’s Form
शुचौ देशे प्रतिष्ठाप्य विजितासन आसनम् । तस्मिन्स्वस्ति समासीन ऋजुकाय: समभ्यसेत् ॥ ८ ॥
śucau deśe pratiṣṭhāpya vijitāsana āsanam tasmin svasti samāsīna ṛju-kāyaḥ samabhyaset
एकान्त और पवित्र स्थान में आसन बिछाकर, आसन पर विजय पाए हुए साधक को वहाँ सुखपूर्वक बैठकर, शरीर को सीधा रखकर, प्राणायाम का अभ्यास करना चाहिए।
Sitting in an easy posture is called svasti samāsīnaḥ. It is recommended in the yoga scripture that one should put the soles of the feet between the two thighs and ankles and sit straight; that posture will help one to concentrate his mind on the Supreme Personality of Godhead. This very process is also recommended in Bhagavad-gītā, Sixth Chapter. It is further suggested that one sit in a secluded, sanctified spot. The seat should consist of deerskin and kuśa grass, topped with cotton.
FAQs
This verse teaches that meditation begins with external discipline—choosing a clean place, establishing a steady seat, sitting calmly, and keeping the body upright before commencing practice.
Kapiladeva instructs His mother Devahūti in the practical steps of sādhana, showing how a devotee should prepare the body and environment to focus the mind on the Supreme.
Create a simple, clean meditation corner, sit with an aligned spine on a stable seat, and begin daily practice with a calm, steady posture to support concentration and devotion.