5 States of Mind

All states of mind originate from the Chitta, or pure mental substance, that we are born with and commonly refer to as consciousness. ‘Chitta’ is the mind. This Chitta is impacted by thought waves of the Vritti’s (fluctuations) that alter that matter as a means of evolving it from one state to another. In yogic language, The 5 different states of mind that we frequently bounce between are called ‘Chittis’. Understand, mind states and the functions of the mind are distinctly different. For now, we explore common states of mind and what that means for our experience in each moment.

The Chittis = 5 States of Mind

In the Yoga Sutras, Patanjali refers to yoga as “chitta-vritti-nirodha”. Fundamentally, this describes yoga (a group of practices) as a means to quiet the fluctuations of the mind. In application, we do that through asana, breathwork, commitment to ethical standards, and more. Personally, I feel that students benefit from understanding what yoga views as common fluctuations of the mind, in order to better connect with themselves and their practice. As you read, play around and see if you can sink into each mindstate as it is described.

Ksipta
- The mind in its lowest state. Distracted.
  - The first mind state describes total disconnection. In this state, we vibrate at a low frequency and lack connection and awareness.
Mudha
- Dull and listless mindstate.
  - This second mind state is one of lower vibration as well. It can be described as one of apathy, disconnection, and dullness.
Viksipta
- A state of partial concentration and confusion.
  - In the third mind state, we are beginning to ‘come online’. For example, as vibrations rise, connection and awareness are present but are often accompanied by overwhelm.
  - Here, in this state, we are without the ability to calm and commit.
Ekagra
- A state of relaxation. Ready to meet a 1-pointed focus.
  - When we enter the fourth mind state, we have become grounded.
  - It is likely that our energy is higher, the mind is clearer, and we become capable of true concentration.
Nirodha
- The mind is under control. Fully absorbed and/or engaged in something.

Inner-work

Life operates in layers, and so do we. In yoga, we work with all 5 states of mind with the understanding that none is more important than the rest. Our job is to simply notice the mind state. None are inherently good or bad; they simply are. When we can accept our experience of different mental states and the different situations in which each manifests, we can notice what we need to notice. In essence, bearing witness to our various states of mind allows us to recognize the impermanence of each. Instead of getting frustrated or distraught with any particular state, we identify, acknowledge, and work with what’s ours at the moment.

Now, let all of that go.

For today, take what you need and leave the rest.

Now, is all that there is.

Therefore, all you need to sink into is this, right here.

You are exactly where you need to be. Let that soak in and fill you up.

You’re incredible.

Stay Connected.

Be well.

Namaste.