with Swami Atmamuktananda

05 - 10 May     $1000 Book Here Early Bird to 24 Apr 
05 - 10 May     $1050 Book Here 

Understanding what is Pratyahara in the system of Raja Yoga

Pratyāhāra literally means “to draw back” or “withdraw.”

Pratyahara at the level of the 4 components of the mind
Ahamakara – ego
Chitti – memory, impressions
Buddhi – intelligence
Manas – action and reaction to information

It refers to the withdrawal of the senses (indriyas) from their objects, so the mind including the 4 components Ahamkara, Chitta, Buddhi, Manas of the mind are no longer constantly pulled outward by senses of sight, sound, taste, smell, and touch.

In the system of Rāja Yoga, Pratyāhāra is the fifth limb of the eightfold path described by Patañjali in the Yoga Sūtras. It marks the vital transition from the external practices of yoga to the internal practices of concentration then meditation.

The mind is constantly moving in the form of in coming information, thoughts, emotions, memories, reactions, and perceptions. These movements are called vṛittis. According to Patañjali, yoga is the practice by which these mental movements are calmed and brought under awareness, so the mind becomes clear and steady.

Yogas Chitta Vritti Nirodhah Yoga Sutras 

Yogas - yoga, union, mastery
Chitta - the mind-field, memory
Vritti - modifications, fluctions, waves, patterns
Nirodhah - cessation, stilling, restraint, regulation 

The Retreat includes: understanding Pratyahara at the level of asana, pranayama, prana, yoga nidra, meditation, discussions, and insight into creative lifestyle changes.