2.47

This sutra provides the specific methodology for mastering yoga posture (āsana), transforming it from a physical exercise into a spiritual practice of stability and ease. The sutra instructs the practitioner to balance two essential processes: the loosening of tension or relaxation of effort (prayatna-śaithilya) and the absorption of the mind into the infinite (ananta-samāpatti). Rather than using forceful exertion, the yogi is guided to release striving until the posture becomes effortless, while simultaneously directing awareness toward the boundless or the breath. This dual approach quells the natural tendency toward restlessness, allowing the body to become a steady, undistracting vehicle for meditation.