The Fifth Limb of Yoga, Pratyahara

We've made it to the fifth limb of Yoga, and here is where we start getting into what might feel a little esoteric.  Pratayahara takes us from the outer to the inner aspects of Yoga.

The outer aspects, Yama, Niyama, Asana, and Pranayama are integral pieces to the foundations of our practice. We root ourselves in ethics and cleansing practices with Yama and Niyama. We develop strength and flexibility with Asana, and Pranayama boosts our vital energy (Prana).

Pratyahara, Withdrawal of the Senses, is two Sanskrit words: Prati - away or against, and  Ahara - food or anything we put into our bodies. It's the mastery of our outside senses - sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch.

Are you glazing over yet?
It’s OK - it’s weird to think about withdrawing our senses.

And yet - Most of us probably already withdraw into ourselves all the time. Have you ever been lost in your thoughts and didn't hear your name?
Have you ever been on public transportation and suddenly realized that it looked like you were staring at something (or more likely someone)?
Have you ever read a passage, and suddenly at the bottom of the page, you have to start over because you were daydreaming and can't remember what you were reading?

The difference between the above examples and Pratyahara is instead of being lost in the mind, the inward focus is intentional. In Asana practice, we set a Drishti - a gazing point, usually a place on the floor, wall, or sometimes a part of our body. We soften the gaze, just like we do when we daydream, and we can begin to naturally turn in and notice what’s happening in the body, mind, and breath.

Our attention (or awareness) follows our senses, and our senses have a daily smorgasbord of delights to take in. Bright lights, loud noises, people, and good dogs who need pets, are all beckoning to our senses to ‘Look over Here!’ and we might be on a journey of consciousness, but we’re still very Monkey Minded.

Pranayama and Pratyahara are closely linked and integral to our journey towards Samadhi. We learn to control Prana and our impulses with Pranayama and then take control of our senses in Pratyahara. Together, these limbs prepare us for meditation.

Journalling Prompts:

• If the concept of withdrawing the senses is new to you, how do you feel about adopting this practice?
• If Pratyahara is already part of your practice, how has it changed your Yoga?
• Whether you've never withdrawn your senses or do it regularly, what about this practice feels easy or natural, and what about it feels challenging?
• Why do you feel this way?
• Reflect on times when your senses had control over you. What does this look like, and how does this feel?

Thank you Patrons for being here, and trusting me on your path. I'd love to hear from you and your experiences with Pratyara, and any other Yoga practices. I'm always here.
Kim

OM