Philosophy
Pratyahara
Pratyāhāraप्रत्याहार· prat-yah-HAH-rahwithdrawal (of the senses)
Pratyahara is the fifth limb of yoga: withdrawing the senses inward, so attention is no longer pulled outward by sights, sounds and sensations.
It is the bridge between the outer limbs (through pranayama) and the inner limbs of concentration and meditation. By turning the senses inward, the mind becomes available for focused practice.
Frequently asked questions
- What is pratyahara in yoga?
- It is the practice of drawing the senses inward, away from external distractions, so the mind can settle. It prepares you for concentration (dharana) and meditation (dhyana).