Yoga Sutra 1.4: Vritti Sarupyam Itaratra

Introduction

Yoga Sutra 1.4 follows the profound teachings of the previous sutras by explaining what happens when the mind is not in a state of stillness. The verse, “Vritti Sarupyam Itaratra”, describes how the mind becomes identified with its fluctuations when it is not calm. Understanding this sutra helps practitioners recognize how mental distractions create false identities and illusions, pulling them away from their true nature.

The Meaning of Yoga Sutra 1.4

The Sanskrit phrase “Vritti Sarupyam Itaratra” can be broken down as follows:

• Vritti (वृत्ति) – “Fluctuations or modifications of the mind”
• Sarupyam (सारूप्यम्) – “Identification with or taking the form of”
• Itaratra (इतरत्र) – “Otherwise or at other times”

A commonly accepted translation is: “At other times, the seer identifies with the fluctuations of the mind.”

This sutra highlights the reality that when the mind is restless and filled with thoughts, we mistakenly identify with them, rather than recognizing our true essence. Instead of abiding in pure awareness, we become entangled in the ever-changing patterns of the mind.

Examples to Understand the Meaning of This Sutra

To illustrate Yoga Sutra 1.4, here are some relatable examples:

Example 1: The Mirror Covered in Dust

Imagine a mirror that is covered in dust. When the dust accumulates, the mirror no longer reflects a clear image. Similarly, when the mind is clouded with distractions, emotions, and worries, we lose sight of our true self. The more we identify with these disturbances, the harder it becomes to see reality clearly.

Example 2: The Role of an Actor

An actor plays various roles in different movies, yet their true identity remains the same. However, if an actor starts believing they are the character they play, they lose touch with their real self. Likewise, we adopt different identities based on our thoughts, emotions, and external experiences, forgetting our unchanging inner self.

Example 3: Getting Caught in the Waves

Picture yourself standing in the ocean. If you focus only on the waves crashing around you, you may feel overwhelmed and believe you are being tossed around. But if you remember that beneath the waves, the ocean is vast and still, you regain perspective. The same applies to the mind—when we only focus on surface-level thoughts and emotions, we lose touch with the deeper awareness that remains unchanged.

The Consequences of Identification with the Mind

When we identify with the fluctuations of the mind, we experience:

• Emotional instability – Mood swings, anxiety, and stress due to external influences.
• False self-perception – Believing we are only our thoughts, roles, or achievements.
• Attachment to suffering – Clinging to temporary emotions and past experiences as part of our identity.

By recognizing this pattern, we can begin to detach from the mind’s fluctuations and reconnect with our deeper awareness.

Why This Sutra Matters

Yoga Sutra 1.4 is crucial because it explains why we experience confusion, suffering, and illusion in life. It teaches us that unless we cultivate stillness and self-awareness, we remain trapped in a false sense of identity, shaped by passing thoughts and external experiences.

Key Takeaways:

1. When the mind is not still, we mistakenly identify with its changing thoughts.
2. True self-awareness comes from detaching from mental fluctuations.
3. Yoga helps us shift from false identification to inner clarity and peace.

How to Apply Sutra 1.4 in Daily Life

To avoid getting lost in the mind’s fluctuations, practitioners can adopt the following habits:

1. Develop Awareness of Thoughts

• Observe thoughts without attaching to them.
• Recognize that emotions and thoughts are temporary.
• Practice self-inquiry by asking, “Who is observing these thoughts?”

2. Practice Meditation for Mental Clarity

• Regular meditation helps detach from mental distractions.
• Techniques like breath awareness and mantra meditation create inner stillness.
• Use guided meditations that focus on self-awareness.

3. Cultivate Non-Attachment (Vairagya)

• Let go of identifying with negative emotions or labels.
• Understand that thoughts and experiences do not define you.
• Practice gratitude and acceptance rather than dwelling on past or future worries.

4. Shift Perspective in Challenging Situations

• When experiencing stress, remind yourself that thoughts are not absolute truths.
• Instead of reacting impulsively, take a mindful pause before responding.
• Focus on the present moment rather than getting caught in mental stories.

By applying these principles, practitioners can break free from identification with the mind’s fluctuations and experience life with greater clarity and peace.

Conclusion

Yoga Sutra 1.4 explains that when the mind is not still, we falsely identify with its changing nature, leading to confusion and suffering. However, through awareness, meditation, and detachment, we can shift away from false identification and reconnect with our true self.

Embracing “Vritti Sarupyam Itaratra” as a guiding principle helps us cultivate mental clarity, emotional balance, and a deeper connection to our authentic essence.