In kumbhaka, the intellect is retained; in kumbhaka, one becomes retained. Through kumbhaka, the prāṇas are retained; in kumbhaka, the mind dissolves.

This verse uses poetic wordplay to reveal the profound effects of kumbhaka. The root kumbh means “to retain” or “to contain” (as in a pot, kumbha). The verse repeats variations of this root to show how breath retention produces retention at multiple levels.

Buddhiḥ kumbhitā — the intellect is retained. During kumbhaka, discursive thought naturally stops. The analytical mind, normally in constant activity, becomes suspended.

Kumbhito bhavet — “one becomes retained.” The practitioner themselves enters a state of suspension, of complete presence without mental movement.

Prāṇāḥ kumbhitā — the different prāṇas (not just physical breath, but the five manifestations of prāṇa) are contained and unified.

Cittaṃ vilīyate — the mind dissolves. Vilīyate means “dissolves” or “melts.” This is the state of laya, where mental fluctuations cease and only pure consciousness remains. Kumbhaka is thus the direct bridge to samādhi.