There are 5 states of mind. Kṣipta (disarray or neglect), vikṣipta (agitated and dominant), mūḍha (dull), ekāgra (single-minded), and niruddha (absorption). The Yoga Sutras c1v2 states “Yoga is the stilling of mind into absorption of the self (Yogaḥ cittavṛtti nirodhaḥ)”. There are many techniques for working toward absorption of the mind. Self-Enquiry (Vicharasangraham), Repition of the Celestial Sound (Japa-Praṇava or Aum), Continuous practice (ekāgra-abhyāsa), freedom from desires (viṣaya vairāgyam), freedom from qualities of nature (guṇavaitṛṣṇyam), Profound meditation on the Self (Iśvara-praṇidhānāt) are but some of techniques in developing Dhāraṇā. These practices should be done concurrently with spiritual text (vedas) or under the guidance of a true teacher (sadguru).