The word Darsana means: “sight”; vision; to have auspicious sight of; to see a great or holy being, either human or divine; a philosophical school
People turn to yoga primarily to obtain relief from pain and respite from stress and anxiety. However, people see and define yoga differently. Some see it as a mild form of exercise for the aged. Others think of it as a meditative practice that brings detachment, not for those with family responsibilities. Others equate it with merely sitting still for long periods, while others see it as body contortions. Younger people see it as gentle stretching to be done with more vigorous calisthenic activity. There is also a large section of the population that considers it solely as an alternative therapy
The word yoga (yuj) means to unite or bind together. Yoga Darshana is a school of philosophy that shows they way too unite the atma (individual self) with the paramatma (cosmic soul) in order to attain moksha (liberation).
The six darshanas expound on the nature of god and the universe and discuss the means to attaining divinity. These systems are so detailed and profound in their approach that they are believed to have come from God, through the medium of saints and seers. Some of these are obsolete.
Of the six darshanas, Yoga darshana (Ashtanga yoga, or the Yoga of Patanjali) is the most pertinent to all, regardless, of age, gender, religion or nationality of the practitioner. It may not be possible for all to attain the final goal of self-realisation or oneness with god. However, it is possible for any individual to benefit from the practice of yoga. In the other darshanas, a failure to follow the path or the hardships along the way may lead to despair and disillusionment. However, in yoga, the sadhaka achieves a healthy body and a sound mind if nothing else.
Humans have an insatiable thirst for knowledge. To be able to perceive and assess knowledge objectively, it is necessary for the mind to be in a state of balance. In reality though, mind is often weighed down or swayed by emotions. Emotion clouds the intelligence and deprives the individual of true knowledge. Yoga Shastra (The Yoga Sutras) was developed to cultivate a cultured and dispassionate mind in order to become a fit vehicle for perception and analysis.
Once material needs are met, people turn to yoga for peace of mind. The practice of yoga regulates the mind, intelligence and ego. It liberates these three components of consciousness from the unending cycle of desires. When consciousness becomes contemplative, the practitioner can attain fulfillment and eternal bliss, experiencing contentment beyond sensual gratification. At this stage the practitioner can face the worst of calamities with equanimity.
Yoga is a discipline that steadies the wavering mind and channels the sadhakas energies in the right direction. This state of mind is achieved through practice and detachment.
Y.S. 1.12 – Abyhasa vairagya tan nirodha. - Practice and detachment are the means to still the movements of consciousness.