Kleshas: The Five Afflictions Underlying Trauma

The kleshas are five fundamental afflictions or distortions in perception that create suffering: avidya (ignorance), asmita (egoic identification), raga (attachment/craving), dvesha (aversion/repulsion), and abhinivesha (fear of death or dissolution). Trauma survivors often don't realize these deeper patterns fuel their PTSD symptoms. Avidya manifests as misperceiving present safety as continuing danger. Asmita appears as shame-based identity: 'I am broken,' 'I am a victim.' Raga drives compulsive attachment to control or avoidance strategies. Dvesha creates intense rejection of thoughts, sensations, and memories. Abhinivesha underlies the terror of losing one's sense of self in overwhelming emotions. By recognizing these patterns, trauma survivors gain insight into why symptoms persist even when objectively safe. The kleshas aren't merely psychological but represent fundamental cognitive distortions that yoga practice systematically dissolves. As clarity increases through practice, the grip of these afflictions loosens, and trauma's psychological scaffolding crumbles. This offers a comprehensive framework beyond symptom management.