Essence of Guru and Mind
Human body consists of both gross and subtle materials. One is made of gross substances and the other is made of the subtle elements of the mind. The subtle elements (of mind) have two attributes – its native and inner-self (mind). The mind, the inner-organ has two components – knowledge of Kriya (activities) and Shakti (Power). The inner-self works through the help of the life-forces, which emanate from the five subtle elements of nature. The five types of life forces are Apaana, Samaana, Vyaana, Udaana and Praana. They came to existence from the five elements (of nature). They always remain inside the human body in a subtle state.
Atma has the same nature as Brahma. The nature of the mind can be both gross and subtle. Therefore, during spiritual practices the mind gets entangled in Maya. In a conflict between the mind (what one thinks) and soul (what one feels) desire comes into play. The mind usually follows the path dictated by desire.
The soul force of a human being gets weakened when the gross desires of the mind start becoming powerful. One can control gross desires only when one can control his mind.
The mind is born out of the soul whereas desires emanate from the mind. Mind is born with the element of desire. The relationship between the mind and desire is one of interdependence.
The mind is attracted by external things. The mind also listens to the soul. The mind is the seat of Maya and the soul is the seat of the Guru. When a person only listens to his mind, he gets trapped by Maya. On the other hand, if he is attracted towards the Guru, then he is redeemed by such entrapments.
Source: Shri Guru Bhagavat, Vol.4 by Dr. C B Satpathy