Transition to the next stage. After prāṇāyāma comes dhāraṇā — concentration — and then work with the mind (dhī).

The complete sequence: prāṇāyāma → pratyāhāra → dhāraṇā → dhyāna → samādhi. Each step naturally leads to the next when practiced with dedication.

Prāṇāyāma is the crucial bridge. Control of the breath enables control of the mind, as the Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā says.