2.32 The fixed observances are cleanliness, contentment, austerity, study and persevering devotion to God.

2.33 When improper thoughts disturb the mind, there should be constant pondering over the opposites.

On the other end of the spectrum, we have the Niyamas. Like the other post, these are covered individually in later Sutras, but you can read the list above to get the gist.

Take note of Sutra 2.33. This is they key to developing a balanced mind and personally, I find it to be one of the most useful Sutras. This is where knowing the parts of the Yogic mind come into effect, and how they interact gives the underlying mechanisms for developing balance between the Yamas and Niyamas.

It's simple on the surface. If you want to change one habit, do the opposite of that habit. Everything in Yoga has it's dualistic component. The heart of Smakya yoga is dualism, but do not confuse this with the concept of black and white. As the Obi Wan stated in Revenge of the Sith, black and white thinking is the path to the dark side. Star Wars street cred Yo!

When we look at a wave, it has it's high points and low points. Karma is like a wave because all of our personal attributes come in differing flavors in that spectrum. Yoga is an attempt to make the wave flat. Do you see now how the analogy of the moon being reflected in the pond comes into play? First, we identify the strongest waves in our mind. Sometimes it's pretty obvious what we need to work on, sometimes we have to find our way on our own. I have difficulty with this myself with my natural tendency to rebel. I generally do not like criticism, so that can get me into trouble. On the other hand, others can and will manipulate you through criticism to achieve their own ends, which are not always altruistic. It's not an easy road to travel, but with a clear mind, you can make the best decisions for YOU.

Root out what you need to work on and cultivate the opposite. Yoga makes this easier than it may seem. You only have to remember five traits, keeping in mind the opposite of the spectrum. Five dimes have two sides and also equal Fiddy Cent, one of my favorite rappers.