How to control the senses and focus the mind during the practice of yoga? Krishna advises practitioners to withdraw the senses from their external objects and turn inward.

The first instruction is to "sparśānkṛtvā bahirbāhyāṁś," which means withdrawing the senses from external objects such as touch. This involves restraining the senses from seeking gratification through contact with the external world. By limiting sensory input, individuals can prevent distractions and disturbances that hinder concentration.

Next, Krishna advises stabilizing the forces of "prāṇāpānau samau," the inward and outward breaths. Prāṇa refers to the life force or vital energy, and apāna is its opposite, representing downward and outward-moving energy. By regulating and balancing these vital forces through controlled breathing techniques, practitioners can achieve a state of physiological equilibrium conducive to meditation.

The verse also emphasizes focusing the mind "cakṣuścaivāntare bhrūvoḥ," between the eyebrows, at the Ajna chakra or the third eye. This point is considered the seat of consciousness and inner vision in yoga philosophy. By directing the gaze and attention to this point, practitioners can awaken higher states of awareness and concentration.

By following these instructions, individuals can cultivate inner stillness and mental clarity essential for the practice of yoga. By withdrawing the senses, regulating the breath, and focusing the mind, practitioners create the ideal conditions for meditation and self-realization.

Overall, this verse underscores the importance of controlling the senses and directing the mind inward to attain spiritual growth and self-awareness through the practice of yoga. It highlights the transformative power of yoga in harnessing the mind's potential and experiencing higher states of consciousness.