PREFACE
Happiness has for ever been the prime aim of every human being. All activities of man are
directed towards acquiring the maximum happiness in life. But, through the wrong deluded notion
that objects will give happiness, man searches for it outside. The result is that in spite of all his
lifelong efforts, he gets disappointment only. Vexation and misery alone are to be seen everywhere.
The real lasting happiness lies within man. Such happiness or Ananda is the Inner Self, the
Antaratman. The very nature of Atman is pure Joy. This is never perceived because the mind is
completely externalised. As long as the mind is restlessly wandering about amidst objects, ever
fluctuating, excited, agitated and uncontrolled, this true joy cannot be realised and enjoyed. To
control the restless mind and perfectly still all thoughts and cravings is the greatest problem of man.
If he has subjugated the mind, he is the Emperor of emperors.
For gaining mastery over the mind, you have to know what it is, how it works, how it
deceives you at every turn and by what methods it can be subdued. In this book, the subject has been
dealt with; and the nature of the mind, the various forms that it assumes, the secret of its inner
workings and the way to control it are fully and clearly explained. The previous editions were
eagerly read and appreciated by thousands of aspirants who wrote to say how immensely they were
helped by the instructions. The lessons and instructions are eminently practical and many helpful
ideas and suggestions got during my meditations have been recorded and put down here. Very
useful hints on concentration and meditation will be found in the book which, if faithfully followed,
will bring success in a short time without fail.
I pray to every aspirant to study constantly the valuable instructions with care and follow the
practical hints given in his Sadhana and daily life. It will doubtless enable you to gain control over
your passions and cravings and to get established in Yoga. The Bhakta, the student of Vedanta, the
Raja Yogin, the Karma Yogin—all will find this book an indispensable guide. The later stages of
Yoga Sadhana are common in all the four paths and Dharana and Dhyana are quite impossible
without first subduing the mind. All Sadhanas are, therefore, aimed at obtaining mastery over the
mind. Hence it is that I have tried to present the ways and means of achieving this through simple,
yet well-tried and effective methods. My efforts would be amply fulfilled if even a single earnest
aspirant is helped on the spiritual path and attains the Goal.
May the Lord, the Antaryamin, the Supreme Indweller inspire all to attempt mind-control
and Yoga! May He bestow success on the sincere aspirants that struggle to master the unruly mind!
May you reach the Goal of Life, Immortality, Supreme Knowledge and Bliss!
Sivananda Maharaj
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