Our series continues with sutra 2. This sutra is considered such a key Yoga practice that Swami Satchidananda recommended that the sutra be memorized by all sincere and aspiring yogis. When disturbed by negative thoughts, opposite [positive] ones should be thought of. This is pratipaksha bhavana Swami Satchidananda translation. When doubt or wayward thoughts disturb the cultivation of the yamas and niyamas , generate the opposite: a counterforce of thoughts, images, or feelings that have the power to uplift, invigorate, inspire, and steady the mind. This is pratipaksha bhavana Rev.

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According to the Sutras, negative thoughts are described as anything against the yamas or niyamas. Yogis can practice pratipaksha bhavana in order to actively change intrusive or destructive thoughts. This practice can be incorporated into meditation or yoga asana when intrusive, negative thoughts attempt to distract.
August 2020
Before diving into its two forms, it can be helpful to first clarify what pratipaksha bhavana is not. The accuracy of this observation can easily be seen in the fact that we would never consider using this approach with others — for example, a child, friend, or co-worker. For this reason, it is important to understand that pratipaksha bhavana is not the mere negation of thoughts, but rather a distinct and far more effective pair of approaches. By contrast, an example of our first form of pratipaksha bhavana would be to shift our focus from the cake to the desire for something greater. Obviously, this is dramatically distinct from merely controverting or suppressing our thoughts. Again, rather than fighting this, we can actually make our practice of pratipaksha bhavana even more powerful by using this aspect of our minds. On the other hand, if we can pause long enough to really think through the full ramifications of the choice and imagine the consequences just as vividly as we imagine the enjoyable parts, we are far more likely to choose a healthier alternative. Instead, we are once again using the power of the mind to look beyond its initial assumptions to the full potential ramifications of its actions.
Yogis developed the concept of Pratipaksha Bhavana to overcome the inherent negative thoughts and emotions such as anger, greed, pride, sadness, worry, and tension etc. Promoting healthy and positive thoughts are essential to reach a balanced state of mind and personality. The actual meaning of Pratipaksha Bhavana is cultivating positive thought every time a negative thought enters the mind. Pratipaksha Bhavana is a beautiful and challenging mind practice. This powerful technique has the potential to shift the energies and align them in such a way that in every situation only goodness and positivity is read and picked up. This particular practice requires consistent effort and time to make it a habit and regular way of thinking. Once you start, you will slowly start to notice your thought process and emotions especially the frequency of the negativity.