Kleshas: Root Afflictions Behind Addiction

The kleshas are the five root afflictions in Patanjali's psychology: ignorance (avidya), ego (asmita), attachment (raga), aversion (dvesha), and fear of death (abhinivesha). Addiction is never merely a chemical problem—it's rooted in these existential patterns. Ignorance of one's true nature drives the search for completion through substances. Ego-identification creates shame cycles that perpetuate use. Attachment grasps at pleasure; aversion runs from pain through numbing. Each kliesha generates addictive behavior as a strategy for managing existential discomfort. Understanding which kleshas dominate a particular addiction reveals the psychological work required. Someone using to escape pain addresses dvesha differently than someone seeking connection addresses asmita. By working directly with the kleshas through self-inquiry, pranayama, and meditation, recovery addresses addiction's existential roots rather than managing symptoms alone.