Samādhi Pāda · Sutra 35

विषयवती वा प्रवृत्तिरुत्पन्ना मनसः स्थितिनिबन्धनी

viṣayavatī vā pravṛttir utpannā manasaḥ sthiti-nibandhanī

Or a higher activity related to subtle objects, arising, binds the mind to stability.

When subtle sensory experiences arise — extraordinary perceptions of light, sound, fragrance, or other refined sensations — these can be used as anchors to stabilize the mind.

These experiences (pravṛtti viṣayavatī) are signs of progress in meditation. They may manifest as vision of inner light, hearing of the cosmic sound (nāda), or perceptions of celestial fragrances.

Patañjali does not present them as goals but as tools: rather than being distracted by them, the practitioner uses them to deepen concentration. They generate confidence in the process and anchor attention.