The lapse in Yoga happens due to some unconscious resistance which springs up a surprise and upsets the steady walk just as severe storm can blind and temporarily render us directionless. These hidden resistances that rise up, generally under the pressure of forces inimical to the yoga are excessive passion, spiritual ambition, vanity, arrogance, lust, doubt, fear. Almost every sadhak confronts them, one or the other form, at some point or the other. That is why a long or short preparatory purification is the first necessity of sadhana.
When they arise, one has to face them with faith and courage, above all trust and confidence in the Grace. It helps if peace and equanimity are established in the system. During these periods, instead of feeling intimidated by the onrush of forces and even distractions, one has to keep inwardly intensifying the aspiration and surrender to the Divine Mother. Cultivating sincerity and humility greatly helps.
What is most important is not to forget the goal, never to give up the Yoga in the face of difficulties. In the end they pass away leaving us wiser, stronger and purer through the catharsis. Storms and clouds are always temporary. Even the dark veil of the Night is a seeming. The greater truth, the enduring Reality is the Sun of Truth and Love that shines forever and always returns. One has to keep faith and endure the brief passage.
