Beyond the Poses: Understanding the Kleshas and the Root of Suffering
As we step into a new year, many of us feel called to set intentions or resolutions—hoping this will finally be the year we lose the weight, change careers, or begin the project that’s been quietly living in our hearts. Yet so often, these goals remain unmet. Not because we lack motivation or discipline, but because we aren’t fully prepared with the awareness and inner systems needed to support lasting change.
This inner disconnect often becomes a source of suffering.
In yoga philosophy, suffering is understood as an inevitable part of the human experience—largely shaped by our thoughts, beliefs, and emotional patterns. The empowering truth is that with conscious practice, we can choose how much we suffer and how deeply we become entangled in it.
Ancient yogic sages explored this human condition with great precision. They identified five primary mental afflictions—sometimes called poisons—that cloud perception and keep us stuck in habitual patterns. These afflictions are known as the Kleshas, and they influence how we think, feel, and act, often without us realizing it.
Pause for a moment and notice: how often do you replay a difficult conversation in your mind, or mentally rehearse what you wish you had said? This quiet looping of thought is a subtle expression of the kleshas at work.
The five kleshas show up differently for each of us, fluctuating in intensity throughout our lives. According to yogic philosophy, they don’t just create everyday stress or emotional discomfort—they bind us to karma, the repetitive cycle of cause and effect that keeps us from experiencing true freedom and clarity and ultimately, enlightenment.
What Are the Five Kleshas in Yoga Philosophy?
The Sanskrit word klesha can be translated as “affliction,” “obstacle,” or “that which causes pain.” In both yogic and Buddhist traditions, the kleshas refer to deeply ingrained mental and emotional patterns that obscure our true nature. They are considered the root cause of suffering and are meant to be observed, understood, and gradually softened through conscious practice.
The five kleshas are:
Avidya – ignorance or misunderstanding of reality and the self
Asmita – ego-identification or the belief that we are only our roles, thoughts, or identities
Raga – attachment, craving, or clinging to pleasure
Dvesha – aversion, resistance, or avoidance of discomfort
Abhinivesha – fear of death or deep attachment to life as we know it
These mental afflictions operate continuously, often below conscious awareness. Avoiding someone because they trigger discomfort reflects dvesha. Staying in a relationship out of fear of being alone reflects raga. Every one of us has encountered these experiences—sometimes daily.
Which brings us to the deeper question: how do we begin working with the kleshas rather than being ruled by them?
Using Yoga to Work With the Kleshas
The first step is gentle awareness. We cannot release what we refuse to acknowledge. Reflection becomes the gateway to change, whether it arises through mindful movement, breathwork, journaling, meditation, or simply allowing ourselves to sit with what we feel.
This reflective process builds self-awareness, self-understanding, and self-trust. Over time, we begin to see not only which kleshas are present, but how they influence our choices, relationships, and inner dialogue. While this work can feel uncomfortable, it is also deeply liberating.
In my classes, we explore yogic tools that support this journey inward. Some patterns begin to soften through slow, intentional movement and breath awareness. Others require deeper practices such as meditation, tapas (steady, compassionate discipline), self-study, and—when appropriate—guidance from mentors or trained clinical professionals.
The ancient purpose of yoga was never about perfect poses. It was about refining awareness, purifying the mind, and gently loosening the grip of suffering.
As you begin to notice your own kleshas, consider keeping simple notes—mental or written—about what practices help you return to balance. Over time, you’ll recognize familiar patterns more quickly and will feel more confident about what to do when they come up.
A Gentle Invitation
If you feel drawn to explore yoga beyond the physical shapes—to understand how philosophy, breath, and awareness can support real inner change—you’re warmly invited to practice with me.
I’m offering a complimentary online class on February 21st, created as a space to move, reflect, and begin uncovering the subtle patterns that shape our lives. There’s no pressure to fix or change anything—just an opportunity to listen more deeply.
This work unfolds in community, and you don’t have to walk the path alone. 🌿
