Gradually, little by little, one should become quiet through the intellect held with firmness. Having established the mind in the Self, one should not think of anything.

Practical instructions for meditation:

Śanaiḥ śanaiḥ — gradually, little by little. The same expression as in the Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā for taming the prāṇa. The mind is not quieted by brute force but with patience.

Uparamet — should become quiet, withdraw, cease.

Buddhyā dhṛti-gṛhītayā — through the intellect (buddhi) held with firmness (dhṛti). It requires constant determination, not just occasional intention.

Ātma-saṃsthaṃ manaḥ kṛtvā — having established the mind in the Self. Ātma-saṃstha = residing in the Self. The mind rests in its source.

Na kiñcid api cintayet — should not think of anything. The goal is complete mental silence, beyond all objects of thought.

This verse describes the essence of dhyāna: gradual reduction of thought until silence, mind resting in pure consciousness.