“The breath is the king of the senses; when the breath is controlled, the mind becomes steady.”
This isn't a verse from the Shiva Samhita. It is an idea from commentary on the text. For the text's own words, see the verses we've referenced.
About the text: Shiva Samhita
The Shiva Samhita is a Sanskrit hatha yoga text of unknown authorship, framed as Shiva teaching Parvati. Scholars date it anywhere from about the 14th to the 17th century. Its five chapters move from nondual philosophy to the subtle body, postures, mudras and mantra, and it says householders can practise yoga too.
More from the Shiva Samhita
- “The breath is the bridge between the body and the mind; when we control the breath, we control both.”
- “True knowledge is the realization of the oneness of the individual soul and the supreme consciousness.”
- “The path of yoga is not easy; it requires discipline, patience, and perseverance.”
- “A yogi who has attained perfect concentration is like a lighted lamp in a windless place—steady and undisturbed.”
- “The yogi who has conquered the body and the mind attains the highest state of bliss.”
- “Meditation is the gateway to the inner world. Through it, one reaches the state of pure consciousness.”