1.33-1.39 Stabilizing and clearing the mind

These sutras concentrate on how to quiet the mind through one-pointedness and gives techniques to follow. The techniques include

Concentration on the breath (1.34)

Being engrossed in a sense experience (swamji) or object (Iyengar) (1.35)

Focusing on an “inner luminosity” at the heart centre (1.36)

Imagining the mind of a great enlightened person and imitating it (1.37)

Recreating the experience of dreamless sleep while conscious (1.38)

Concentrate on one object, swamiji doesn’t suggest anything in particular whereas Iyengar suggest focusing on one’s own life essence (1.39)

Sutra 1.33 suggests that it is 4 attitudes which should be cultivated towards 4 types of people

Friendliness towards good and joyful people

Compassion to the sick

Goodwill to virtuous people

Neutrality to evil people

This is the basis from which to start your practice of one-pointedness