Bhagavad Gita 6.36 — Yoga is Difficult for the Undisciplined but Attainable for the Self-Controlled
असंयतात्मना योगो दुष्प्राप इति मे मतिः।
वश्यात्मना तु यतता शक्योऽवाप्तुमुपायतः॥ ६.३६॥
In My opinion, Yoga is very difficult to attain for one whose mind is undisciplined. However, one who has mastered the mind and strives sincerely can attain Yoga through the proper means.
Transliteration (IAST)
Word Separation
The Sanskrit verse is separated into individual words (Padched) for easier study.
Word Meanings
| Line 1 | |
|---|---|
| Sanskrit Word | Meaning |
| asaṃyatātmanā | by one whose mind is uncontrolled |
| yogaḥ | Yoga |
| duṣprāpaḥ | is difficult to attain |
| iti | thus |
| me | My |
| matiḥ | opinion |
| Line 2 | |
|---|---|
| Sanskrit Word | Meaning |
| vaśyātmanā | by one whose mind is under control |
| tu | however |
| yatatā | who strives sincerely |
| śakyaḥ | can be attained |
| avāptum | to attain |
| upāyataḥ | through the proper means |
| Line 1 | Line 2 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Sanskrit Word | Meaning | Sanskrit Word | Meaning |
| asaṃyatātmanā | by one whose mind is uncontrolled | vaśyātmanā | by one whose mind is under control |
| yogaḥ | Yoga | tu | however |
| duṣprāpaḥ | is difficult to attain | yatatā | who strives sincerely |
| iti | thus | śakyaḥ | can be attained |
| me | My | avāptum | to attain |
| matiḥ | opinion | upāyataḥ | through the proper means |
Detailed Meaning
Introduction
In this verse, Lord Krishna explains that yoga is difficult to attain for one who lacks self-control, but it is certainly achievable for the disciplined seeker who strives with the proper means.
Essence
Lord Krishna's Encouraging Guidance
After explaining the importance of practice and detachment, Lord Krishna now clarifies who succeeds in yoga and why self-discipline is essential.
Asaṁyatātmanā (for one who has not mastered oneself): A person who allows the mind and senses to run wherever they please will naturally find yoga difficult to attain. Without inner discipline, the mind remains too restless to experience lasting peace.
Yogo duṣprāpaḥ (yoga is difficult to attain): Lord Krishna does not say that yoga is impossible. He simply explains that without self-control, the path becomes extremely challenging because the mind is constantly distracted.
Vaśyātmanā (for one who has brought the mind under control): The seeker who steadily disciplines the mind through practice, wisdom, and detachment gradually becomes capable of deeper meditation and spiritual realization.
Yatataḥ śakyo'vāptum upāyataḥ (it can certainly be attained through the proper means): Lord Krishna ends with a message of hope. Anyone who sincerely strives using the right methods—consistent practice, self-discipline, and detachment—can attain yoga. Spiritual realization is not reserved for a select few but is accessible to every earnest seeker.
This verse replaces discouragement with confidence. Success in yoga depends not upon extraordinary talent but upon sincere effort guided by the proper principles.
Message for Everyday Life (Success Comes Through Disciplined Effort)
Do not underestimate the power of steady discipline: Lasting success in any field comes through regular effort guided by the right methods.
Practical approach: Focus less on immediate results and more on building daily habits of self-discipline. Even small acts of consistent effort gradually transform the mind and make higher spiritual realization attainable.
Next Topic
Having assured Arjuna that yoga is attainable through sincere effort, Arjuna now raises another important question: what happens to a seeker who begins the path of yoga with faith but is unable to complete it before the end of life?
Hidden Messages In This Shloka
Reflect on this verse from different perspectives and see which deeper message opens up for you.
Wisdom Nuggets
Self-control turns possibility into reality.
Effort guided by discipline creates lasting progress.
The path becomes easier when the mind becomes steadier.
Consistent effort overcomes obstacles that seem impossible.
Mastering the mind is the gateway to mastering life.
The first person to lead successfully is oneself.
Yoga rewards effort, discipline, and perseverance.