Kleshas: Root Afflictions and Core Belief Identification

The Kleshas—avidya (ignorance), asmita (ego), raga (attachment), dvesha (aversion), and abhinivesha (fear of death/clinging)—are Patanjali's five root causes of human suffering. This yogic diagnostic framework enriches CBT's functional analysis by revealing archetypal patterns beneath presenting symptoms. Avidya maps to cognitive distortions and limited perspectives; asmita to ego-investment and shame; raga to approach-based anxiety about loss; dvesha to avoidance and anger; abhinivesha to existential anxiety. Rather than viewing these as mere pathology, yoga recognizes them as universal human patterns. In CBT application, understanding Kleshas helps clinicians identify which fundamental affliction drives a client's specific presentation, enabling more targeted intervention. A client with panic may primarily struggle with abhinivesha, while shame-based depression roots in asmita. This layered diagnostic approach, informed by Patanjali's ancient wisdom, deepens CBT's case conceptualization and guides selection of specific cognitive and behavioral interventions addressing root causes.