“The yogi should practice asanas and pranayama to purify the body and mind, for only then can the consciousness rise above the senses.”
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
- “In yoga, the seeker must renounce all attachment to worldly desires and dedicate himself fully to the practice.”
- “To conquer the mind is the highest victory. One who has mastered his mind is called a true yogi.”
- “Yoga is the path to liberation; it leads to freedom from the bondage of the mind and the ego.”
- “The mind is like a mad elephant; the yogi must tame it through the practice of yoga.”
- “The practice of asanas and pranayama purifies the body and prepares the mind for meditation.”
- “The yogi who has attained control over the senses can see the divine presence in all things.”