Yoga isn’t just about the poses; it’s also about training your mind. The whole point of yoga, according to ancient teachings, is to quiet the constant chatter and fluctuations (called chitta vrittis) that go on in our heads.
Understanding these different yoga states of mind is key to understanding yoga itself. Let’s take a look at the five states of mind described in the Yoga Sutras and related commentaries, and why understanding them is so important for anyone practicing yoga and meditation.
The Five States of Mind: An Overview
The Yoga Bhashya by Vyasa describes five states of mind, sometimes called the Panch Chitta Vritti. They are:
- Kshipta
- Mudha
- Vikshipta
- Ekagra
- Nirodha
These states represent a range of mental activity, from agitated and distracted to completely still. The gunas – Rajas, Tamas, and Sattva – relate to these states.
The ultimate goal of yoga is to move away from the less desirable states (Kshipta, Mudha, Vikshipta) and toward the more concentrated and still states (Ekagra, Nirodha).
Kshipta: The Agitated State
Kshipta refers to an agitated or restless state of mind. Think of it as a constant buzzing, a mental instability that keeps you from focusing on anything for very long.
This state is closely linked to Rajas guna, which is basically the principle of activity. Rajas drives you to constant action and distraction, fueling the Kshipta state.
For many people, Kshipta is the most common waking state. As Swami Vivekananda famously said, it’s “natural to the demons.” In other words, it’s a very common, but not necessarily desirable, state of mind.
Mudha: The Dull State
In yoga, mudha refers to a dull, lethargic, or even stupefied state of mind. People in this state feel inertia, laziness, and a lack of motivation. This state has strong ties to tamas guna, the inert principle that leads to inactivity and ignorance.
What kinds of activities might bring on mudha? Oversleeping, eating too much junk food, and staying inactive for too long can all contribute. Swami Vivekananda famously said that this state is “natural to the demons.”
Vikshipta: The Distracted State
Vikshipta describes a distracted state of mind. People in this state can focus sometimes, but their attention tends to wander. Their minds jump from one thing to another.
Swami Vivekananda once said that this state is “natural to devas, the gods.” This suggests it’s a slightly better state than the previous two we’ve discussed. You can sometimes concentrate, but you’re still easily distracted.
Ekagra: The Concentrated State
Ekagra is a state of total focus, where your mind zeroes in on a single object or point. Think of it as laser focus for your mind.
This state is super important for meditation and yoga because it allows you to dig deeper and really understand things. When you can hold your attention steady, you can gain insights you wouldn’t otherwise.
Vyasa, an ancient commentator on the Yoga Sutras, says that achieving Ekagra “illuminates the true nature of things, destroys the five kleshas, loosens the karmic bonds, and brings one face-to-face with niruddha (the controlled, peaceful state of the mind).”
Nirodha: The Cessation State
Nirodha is a state of cessation, or complete stillness, of the mind. In this state, there are no mental fluctuations. According to the Yoga Sutras, nirodha is the ultimate goal of yoga practice.
In fact, the Yoga Sutras define yoga as the stilling (nirodha) of mental fluctuations.
Achieving the state of nirodha results in profound peace and liberation.
Closing Thoughts
The five states of mind in yoga are important because they help you understand where your mind is right now. Knowing that can help you move toward a more focused and peaceful state through yoga.
Remember that yoga practice is a journey, and the ultimate goal is Nirodha, a state of stillness and peace.