The yogī should constantly concentrate on the Self, remaining in solitude, with mind and body controlled, free from desires and possessions.

Chapter 6 of the Gītā, called Dhyāna Yoga, offers concrete instructions for meditation. This verse establishes the preliminary conditions.

Satatam (constantly) indicates that the practice is not occasional. Rahasi sthitaḥ (remaining in solitude) doesn’t require living in isolation but creating moments of daily retreat.

Ekākī (alone) has a double meaning: physically apart for practice, and psychologically independent — not seeking external validation.

Yata-cittātmā combines control of mind (citta) and body (ātmā here = body). Haṭha Yoga specializes in this: āsana and prāṇāyāma prepare the body; dhāraṇā techniques quiet the mind.

Nirāśīḥ (without expectations) and aparigrahaḥ (without accumulation) describe the attitude: entering practice without an agenda, without collecting spiritual experiences.

These conditions seem strict, but they are gradual. Regular practice naturally cultivates this orientation.