A healthy mind can ward of negative external influences just as a healthy body can fight off pathogens. Our senses are the doorways to the mind; everything we see, hear, touch, smell, taste, and think will build up in our subconscious. Constant sensory activity can keep us trapped in a lower state of awareness, leading to a lack of focus and overindulgence. Practices of Pratyahara can guide us to live a life that is more intentional in action and use of the senses.
Pratyahara is the fifth limb of Yoga, within the eight limbs of Ashtanga yoga, it serves as the bridge between controlling the breath, Pranayama, and control of the mind, Dharana. Pratyahara is not simply restricting the senses or closing them off, it is regulating and coordinating the senses so we can choose what to feed our mind and enable right use of the senses.
Humans have this incredible capacity to bring the senses inward when the motivation is right and coordination of the mind and senses is present. Unfortunately, sensory overindulgence has plagued our entertainment culture. Junk media accumulates in our subconscious mind, like ama (metabolic waste) that builds up the in the gut. While a detox from certain foods can benefit the body, sensory withdrawal from social media, television, and the news benefits the mind. In the cleansing nature of spring, try a junk media detox to practice Pratyahara. Start by removing any negative media outlets that typically enter your field of consumption, this may be social media apps, certain music or news stations. To amplify the benefits of a media detox, try a simple meditation or Pranayama practice. You can learn more about Pranayama in this article: “Awakening Energy with the Breath: Pranayama.”
While removing negative impressions is an important part of Pratyahara, directing our attention toward positive impressions is just as important for creating a deeply fulfilling life. Positive impressions fix our mind on good natured qualities or objects, such as creating an altar, meditating on nature, or going to a temple. Life becomes a sacred ritual when we devote our actions to the selfless service of humanity or God (whichever you believe in).The act of devotional service to something sacred, larger than ourself cultivates a mind that is patient and kind. Fixing our sense of sight on something uniform and peaceful also nourishes the mind through Pratyahara. Gazing at the ocean or sunset, for example, is easy on the eyes and mind. Choose to follow whichever sensations cultivate a sattvic (harmonious) mind for you.
The mind is like the sixth sense organ, as it coordinates all other senses. Pratyahara helps strengthen and nourish the mind to overcome the senses. When the senses are controlled, we don’t crave ill food, junk media, or any sensations that would disease the mind or body. Ayurveda emphasizes the power of using our senses with good nature to prevent disease and live our life to the fullest.
Results of Pratyahara
~ More ease in changing your habits and breaking old cycles.
~ More mental space and clarity to understand the truth through your intuitive knowledge.
~ Healthy mind, happy soul
It’s not always easy to know what decision is best for your health and wellness, but clearing out the mental chatter to create space for your natural intuition and pure intentions expedites the journey to your highest, healthiest self.
Pratyahara exists in all eight limbs of yoga. It is the thread of awareness that weaves through all practices of mindfulness. Whether you are shifting your perspective towards non-judgement or placing your body into an intentional posture, Pratyahara is there. Pratyahara prepares us for control of the monkey mind, also known as Dharana— the sixth limb of Yoga. When we’re living from a place of sensory self control, we open up our mind to expand in ways that would not otherwise be possible.
If you’re interested in learning about the prior four limbs of yoga, look into our articles:
4th limb–Awakening Energy with the Breath: Pranayama
3rd limb–The Power of Posture: Asana
2nd limb–Yoga’s Guide to Self Discipline and Spiritual Practice: Niyamas
1st limb–Yoga’s Ethical Guide for Social Conduct: The Yamas
The eight limbs of yoga were first described in the Yoga Sutra’s of Patanjali, written by the ancient sage Patanjali. Their truth has held the test of time, though requires modern adaptations for our life today. We hope these interpretations serve to help nourish your mind, body and soul.
References
Frawley, David. Yoga and Ayurveda. Twin Lakes, Wisconsin. Lotus Press. 1999.
Photo by Anna Tarazevich
Published 3/26/2025
Article by Kaylee Vinson
