This path of Raja Yoga is perfectly scientific. It contains psychology, psychiatry and the concentration of the yogi. We ask, “Why do I have control over certain things and not over other things? Why, if I want to accomplish a certain thing, can’t I do it, or can’t I do it within a time stipulated by me?” This helplessness, weakness, victimization or slavishness to the mind is due to the uncultured aspect of our mental or psychological being. All aspirants on the spiritual path are not necessarily qualified for Raja Yoga. This path was brought forth by yogis of ancient times for those who are more rational, scientific, psychological- or technical-minded. Raja Yoga primarily deals with the nervous system and the prana or life force. These nerve channels in Sanskrit are called tantu, which linguistically shares the same root as “technique.” Raja Yoga is a technical path and starts after the fulfillment of hatha yoga—breathing exercises and yoga postures.
      The main idea is that there are certain rules, laws, barriers—the dharma—and without fulfilling those we cannot hope to get to Enlightenment. A free access is given to those who deserve, who are worthy, who are qualified and who will not misuse it. Therefore, even though in principle I am for expressions such as ecstatic dancing, I do not believe in giving free access to craziness, which neither will fulfill your goal nor satisfy your emotions; you will get so tired and spent that depression will follow.

     Belief according to one’s own choice or tendencies is accepted but belief is not Enlightenment. Belief is not even a path, actually, but it is certainly a motivating factor. Belief comes from your subconscious. Somewhere in your metabolism and psychology you feel, “That is right, that is true.” The mind needs a support, a springboard. Belief thrusts you into something, to search, to be; where you end up is up to you. Therefore it has to come from within you. My belief is to respect everyone’s belief, but I tell them: “My belief is my business as yours is your business.”
      I believe that the search is a wandering, from data toward the conclusion, where belief is the data and the conclusion is Enlightenment. In between is seeking, analysis, reflection, struggle and, of course, harmony. In this, stagnation has no place. Within this search we play with the conscious mind as we know it—the three-dimensional mind, which has thoughts, the survival instinct, fear of death, fear of illness, suffering, sex and appetites. To culture the conscious mind and know its function or purpose is the search. Therefore the greatest journey is through your own mind.