“CHITTAVRITTI NIRODHA” – A REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Citta is the mind, vritti refers to thoughts and Nirodha means removal. Vrittis are of five types as follows: Pramana (right knowledge) – A state in which the mind reflects reality, Viparyaya (misconception) – A state when the mind makes a wrong judgement, Vikalpa (imagination or feeling) – does not refers to understanding the real situation, it refers to verbal imagination without real object. Nidra (deep sleep) – The state of mind that exists when one sleeps and Smriti (memory) – That which is stored in the mind. “Vrittis” refers to the whirlpool of thoughts, emotions, and mental activities that constantly occupy our consciousness. These fluctuations can be compared to the ripples on the surface of a serene lake, disrupting its tranquility.

Material and Methods: A compilation and critical analysis of Yoga and Ayurvedic literature, national and international journals, online search engine, contemporary textbookbooks and other sources that contributes to the compilation of study.

Discussion: "Yoga Chitta Vritti Nirodha" is one of the beginning sutras from Patanjali's Yoga Sutra which means 'yoga is the cessation of the modification of Chitta. The Chitta is the unconscious storehouse of past thoughts and experiences and the bed of memory. In Hindu philosophy, Vritti is often described based on the foundation of Samskara. Samskara represents the result of our past karma,

Conclusion: Vrittis are the ever-changing mental fluctuations, encompassing thoughts, emotions, and patterns of the mind, at the heart of yoga philosophy. By engaging in yogic techniques such as meditation, individuals can gain mastery over these mental fluctuations. The path may be challenging, but with persistence and self-compassion, it leads to the self- realization.