The Kleshas

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In Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, a profound book of wisdom, the concept of being separated from the universal source of love is broken down into five roots of suffering. Known as the kleshas, these five roots are what keep us away from love and, therefore, are what cause us to suffer.

Like clever cunning rascals, the kleshas can knock you off balance, sidetrack your efforts and land you in a whole host of mishaps. We humans use them when sh*t gets challenging. We wrap ourselves up in our kleshas blankets, snuggle up and stop engaging in life, with all its wonder, beauty and wildness. We hide. 

Eventually, they cause us suffering. 

The inability to see things for what they are. A clouding or misunderstanding of reality.

The tendency to overidentify with your ego; this keeps you from connecting with your soul.

The burning flame of desire that causes addiction to pleasure; this discourages you from leaving your comfort zone for newer heights.

The aversion to pain; this creates a cycle of misery  that sucks you in and suffocates your will to grow.

The fear of death; this dilutes your focus and interferes with your ability to experience the spiritual freedom that is the goal of yoga.

Welcome to the journey of life and remember the kleshas are  universal – and run through all of us.