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The Vrittis: Nidra

Updated: Oct 28

As we delve deeper into the nuances of Yoga philosophy, it becomes evident that its scope extends far beyond conventional understanding.


Engaging in the practice of yoga entails harmonising the mind's fluctuations to attain personal serenity and clarity - a journey towards experiencing yoga's essence firsthand.


Yoga's inception lies within the mind, culminating in the realisation of the Self.


Let us persist in scrutinising the mind's intricacies, unravelling our mental terrain to comprehend our perception, interactions, and connection with the essence of existence.


Nidra:


Nidra is a Sanskrit term that translates to "sleep" or "slumber,” but in the context of yogic philosophy and spirituality, Nidra has deeper connotations beyond the ordinary state of sleep experienced in everyday life.


Within the system of Yoga as described in the Yoga Sutras, Nidra is seen as the fourth of the vrittis, or ‘modifications of the mind’, that cause fluctuations and disturbances to the true cognition of all things.


Nidra, in this context, refers to a state of mental dullness, lethargy, or even unconsciousness that obstructs clarity, awareness, and spiritual progress. It is considered an obstacle on the path to self-realisation and liberation because when the mind is in a state of Nidra, it is unable to remain focused, alert or attentive to the present moment.


At its essence, Nidra represents a state of mental inertia, a dullness or heaviness that clouds the clarity of our consciousness. It is not merely the absence of wakefulness, but rather a distinct mode of awareness characterised by a lack of vibrancy and alertness.


Within the Vrittis themselves, Nidra occupies a unique space.


It serves as a reminder of the inherent duality of the mind.


Just as light cannot exist without darkness, wakefulness cannot exist without sleep. Nidra, therefore, stands as a counterpart to the vrittis of activity and engagement, offering a necessary respite from the relentless chatter of the mind.


However, while sleep is a natural and essential aspect of human existence, Nidra as a vritti represents more than just a physiological phenomenon. It is a psychological state that can manifest even in moments of wakefulness, clouding our perception and dulling our awareness.


In its subtlest form, Nidra can manifest as mental fog or lethargy, obscuring our ability to think clearly and make decisions. It is the feeling of being mentally "checked out," disconnected from the present moment and lost in a haze of thoughtlessness.


Yet, Nidra is not necessarily a negative force to be overcome or eradicated. Like all vrittis, it serves a purpose within the grand orchestration of the mind. In its proper context, Nidra can be a source of rejuvenation and renewal, providing the mind with the rest and restoration it needs to function optimally.


However, when Nidra becomes excessive or overwhelming, it can lead to a state of mental stagnation and apathy. It is the difference between a restful night's sleep and a chronic sense of lethargy that pervades every aspect of our waking lives.


Nidra is often addressed through techniques aimed at cultivating mindfulness and awareness. By bringing attention to the present moment and observing the fluctuations of the mind without judgement, we can begin to untangle ourselves from its grip and awaken to a more vibrant and engaged state of being.


The recognition and understanding of Nidra reminds us that our perception of reality is shaped not only by our conscious thoughts and actions but also by the subtle currents of consciousness that flow beneath the surface.


In embracing Nidra as a natural and integral aspect of the human experience, we can learn to navigate its currents with grace and wisdom, finding balance and clarity amidst the ebb and flow of the mind.


Matt ~ The Bearded Naked Yogi

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