PATANJALI

There are two basic tools for mastering the thinking process. The first is meditation, which is described in the Hindu scriptures with a beau tifully precise image: there should be a smooth, unbroken flow of attention on a single subject, like the flow of oil poured from one vessel to an other. My method of meditation is to make the mind go slowly through the words of a particu lar passage from the scriptures or great mystics, as slowly as possible. Whenever the mind wants to slip off on another line of thought, bring the attention back to the words of the passage. It may take years, but eventually thought flows smoothly without interruption.

The other tool is the mantram - a short, powerful spiritual formula. Meditation slows down the thinking process; the mantram keeps it from acting from conditioning and speeding up again during the day. The mantram keeps the stream of concentrated thought flowing throughout the day.

Parvamani.