Kleshas: Root Patterns of Nervous System Reactivity

Patanjali identifies five kleshas (afflictions or obstacles): avidya (ignorance), asmita (ego), raga (attachment), dvesha (aversion), and abhinivesha (fear of death/dissolution). These aren't merely psychological problems; they're the root patterns driving nervous system dysregulation. Avidya manifests as constant threat-detection despite actual safety. Asmita creates defensive reactivity around ego protection. Raga generates grasping and future-oriented anxiety. Dvesha produces avoidance and contraction. Abhinivesha underlies existential anxiety and control behaviors. By identifying which kleshas dominate your reactive patterns, you target regulation practices precisely. Someone driven by raga needs different practices than someone dominated by dvesha. Patanjali's system suggests that nervous system dysregulation isn't random but follows predictable patterns rooted in these fundamental misconceptions about reality. Understanding your dominant klesha offers profound self-knowledge and directs you toward practices that address root causes rather than merely managing symptoms of dysregulation.