Weakening

Weakening

The Kleshas (corruptions of the mind) are of five types according to Patanjali. They are Avidya (ignorance), Asmita (ego), Raga (attraction), Dvesha (aversion) and Abhinivesha (will to live). These corrupting forces are at play, in our minds, projected as behavior in varying degrees of intensity. The degree of intensity is in immediate relation to our awareness of and willingness to work on diminishing their effect upon our condition.

When we remain unaware or ignorant of the influence of the Kleshas the consequences of our actions and behavior are unpredictable and potentially the cause of great misery. Sometimes we are aware of their influence but unwilling to put in the work to reduce their effects. Awareness and acceptance of their effects are the first steps in reducing the impact of the Kleshas.

Although awareness and acceptance of the effects of the Kleshas are the most critical and impactful steps, it is only the first step in the process of overcoming their effects. Yoga, meditation, the study and implementation of virtues and work are all important methods for reducing the effects of the Kleshas.

In the Yoga Sutra, Patanjali gives the 4 Stages of Activity of the Kleshas. They are Fully Active (Udaranam), Intermittent (Vicchinna), Attenuated (Tanu) and Dormant (Prasupta). It’s important to note that in Patanjali’s analysis of human behavior that no experience is ever lost or forgotten. The collection of all of our experiences in life will have some affect on how we act in the world. This is but one link in the chain of Karma and likely the most impactful.

It is my understanding and belief that work done in effort to diminish the effects of the Kleshas and potentially liberating yourself from them is not just an act of free will but a means to increase one’s free will.