Pratyahara - withdrawal of senses

The yoga philosophy of Patanjali is broken down into 8 limbs. Here we focus on the fifth pillar - pratyahara.

Pratyahara is the fifth limb of ashtanga yoga. It serves as a bridge between the external practices of Yoga, and the internal practises of yoga. The first four limbs relate to external practices of yoga such as Asanas and Pranayama. The latter four limbs relate to internal practices such as concentration and meditation

Pratyahara is a Sanskrit term, which translates to “withdrawal of senses” made up of two The two Sanskrit words “prati”, which means “to withdraw,” and ahara, which means “food” but has a wider context of anything we consume.

By withdrawing the senses, the mind becomes less influenced by external stimuli, allowing for greater concentration and control over mental processes. This inward turning allows one to detach from the distractions of the senses and cultivate a state of inner stillness and introspection.

The practice of Pratyahara can help individuals develop a sense of inner steadiness, detachment, and equanimity. It allows them to cultivate a deeper understanding of their own experiences and inner landscape, leading to a more profound connection with their true nature.