Meaning
Supreme God Krishna spoke
It is hard to succeed in Yoga for a man who lacks self-control, but, in my judgment, it is attainable through self-mastery by a man who makes requisite efforts and adheres to the correct technique. (6:36)
Sanskrit
श्रीभगवान् उवाच
असंयतात्मना योगो दुष्प्राप इति मे मतिः ।
वश्यात्मना तु यतता शक्योऽवाप्तुमुपायतः॥
Word-by-word
अ-संयत-आत्मना योगः दुष्प्रापः— इति मे मतिः!
वश्य-आत्मना तु यतता शक्यः अवाप्तुम् उपायतः।
Commentary
Indeed, certain Upanishads and the Mahābhārata suggest that a Yogi who has attained self-mastery and diligently and constantly applies themselves can successfully consummate Yoga in a span of six months. This is mentioned in texts such as the Maitrayaniya Upanishad (6:28) and the Anu-Gitā, found in the āshvamedhic Parva of the Mahābhārata (19:36). These scriptures highlight the potential for rapid progress in the Yogic path when undertaken with sincere dedication and mastery over one’s self.