In Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, "Citta" refers to the mind-stuff or consciousness, encompassing thoughts, emotions, memories, and habitual tendencies. Citta acts as a storehouse for mental impressions (Samskaras), which influence behavior, and latent desires (Vasanas), driving habitual actions. Vrittis, the mental fluctuations, move between these impressions, causing restlessness. Citta’s essential nature is pure, but impurities cloud it, leading to suffering (Dukkha). The Kleshas—ignorance (Avidya), ego (Asmita), attachment (Raga), aversion (Devas), and fear (Abhinivesha)—are mental afflictions that contribute to this disturbance. Through yoga practice, we aim to calm these fluctuations ("Citta Vritti Nirodha") and purify the mind. Techniques like Abhyasa (practice) and Vairagya (detachment) help still the mind. In asanas, we observe and release Samskaras, Vasanas, and Vrittis, breaking conditioned responses and fostering growth, inner peace, and alignment with intention. The practice brings clarity, guiding toward self-realisation and freedom from unconscious reactions.To read more and to practice with Zephyr Wildman, click here. To support Zephyr Yoga Podcast, donate here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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