Yoga sutra 2.23
sva-svāmi-śaktyoḥ svarūpa-upalabdhi-hetuḥ saṁyogaḥ
The conjunction of the “Seer” and the “Seeable” is a catalyst for understanding the true nature of both energies: that of the master and servant.
This is perhaps one of the most positive and optimistic sutra-s. Here Patanjali says that there is a deep misperception (saṁyoga) in believing that you are only your body/the sum of your life experience, and not being able to connect with the profound love and wisdom within, which causes suffering. Such suffering is all necessary as part of your journey. Often it is a life changing and unbearable event that causes you to start on the spiritual path and to that extent, the pain is not fruitless. It is an opportunity for salvation given the awareness it provokes.
Damian Cadman-Jones is an authorised teacher of Prana Vashya Yoga™