In part 4 of the Yoga Philosophy of Patanjali we are given a clear description of the yogic attainment of supernormal abilities. Thoughts are described as fluctuations of mind (this without EEGs). If you repeat the same fluctuation with as little variance as possible and as little disruption as possible your mind will go through certain stages. First there is a fixation on the thought, the fluctuation. Then there is a continuous flow of this fluctuation, without interruption by other fluctuations. Then self disappears and only the fluctuation (thought, perception, object) remains.
Changing the subject of concentration from one thing to another you can attain different results. By applying this process (called Samyama) to the relationship between Akasa and the ability to hear, supernormal hearing is attained. Sidharta mentioned this ability. Samyama on strength produces greater strength.
These powers may be deepened through repeated samyama. Repeated samyama on strength will increase the physical manifestation of strength.
The full effect of one siddhi may be easier to attain. For instance, the removal of hunger is easier than walking through walls. Also, one person may have a special "knack" for one samyama or another. This is due to inborn conditions, dedication, and, wouldn't you know it... Karma
Beyond this, I have to say that despite what some people might think, Patanjali was simplifying things a bit. He reduced this subject to the most easily understood ideas that would convey the most useful message possible. Some people think the siddhis Patanjali described were metaphorical or mere fantasies, but they are neither.
In section four of Patanjali's Yoga Philosophy we read:
"Supernormal powers come with birth or are attained through herbs (that's drugs, man), incantations, austerities or concentration."
Patanjali mentions four ways we may come into posession of siddhis but really only describes one. These other ways were covered in tantras.
"It is new, indeed, for I made it last night in a dream of strange cities; and dreams are older than brooding Tyre, or the contemplative Sphinx, or garden-girdled Babylon."
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