sandeyeThe Theory: the Eight Limbs of Yoga: 3 Pratyahara
May 21st 2008 16:05
Pratyahara can be described as the withdrawal or control of the senses in order to still the mind. It implies disconnecting the senses from external stimulations and sensory distractions, in order to retain an inner peace, clarity and progression. Whereas normally we would follow our wishes and desires, by practice of Pratyahara we learn to ignore the level of the mind that constantly wants this or wants that, so as to concentrate our efforts on more important mental activity. It relates somewhat to the Buddhist 'non-attachment' belief, which I mention as that is where I first encountered this matter and where my own practice began. I have personally learned to disconnect from my heart-mind level, in order that my know-mind level will tell me what I truly do need, rather than allowing my heart-mind to talk me into wanting, and then demanding, whatever I encounter that is pleasant. In both Yoga and Buddhism, the controlling of the 'heart-mind' to allow only our natural needs to become wants, and true happiness and contentment to become our pleasure, leads to a more stable, centered, and balanced life. It prevents the heart-mind wanting every new delight it spots, leading us into temptations, desires, and the possibility of envy, greed, impatience, and jealousy.
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