In this talk on Sūtra I.17–I.22, David explores how conscious stilling of thought can arise through samādhi, a state of deep absorption. He contrasts nirodha (restraint, stopping) with samādhi (absorption, joining with), showing how yoga offers two complementary ways of quieting the mind. Patañjali describes four gateways—vitarka (reasoning, conjecture), vicāra (subtler reflection), ānanda (bliss, delight), and asmitā (the felt sense of “I am”). Each can serve as a “prop” for practice, a higher thought that eliminates distraction and points consciousness inward. David ties these forms to asana work—how reasoning about alignment, savoring the joy of practice, or expressing one’s unique stamp of “I am” can all become methods of yoga. He highlights the razor’s edge of bliss and ego: how they can corrupt into attachment, but also uplift us into genuine states of yoga when skillfully engaged. With support from William Blake and Baul poetry, the talk shows how absorption in reasoning, reflection, joy, and authentic selfhood can transform desire and individuality into vehicles for inner freedom.