“When the body is healthy, the mind is clear, and the spirit is calm, one attains the state of yoga.”
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 greatest strength is found not in the body, but in the mastery of the mind.”
- “The true yogi is one who has learned to surrender his ego and sees himself in all beings.”
- “One should practice yoga with devotion, sincerity, and faith, without attachment to the results.”
- “He who is unaffected by happiness or sorrow, he who remains steadfast in yoga, attains the highest state.”
- “The breath is the bridge between the body and the mind; when we control the breath, we control both.”
- “The yogi should practice asanas and pranayama to purify the body and mind, for only then can the consciousness rise above the senses.”