Yoga Sutra 1.5: Vrittayah Pancatayah Klistaklistah

Introduction

Yoga Sutra 1.5 introduces an important concept in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras—the five types of mental fluctuations or modifications (vrittis) that shape our perception of reality. The verse, “Vrittayah Pancatayah Klistaklistah”, explains how these mental activities can either lead to suffering (klista) or be neutral and non-harmful (aklista). Understanding this sutra helps practitioners gain control over their thoughts and cultivate a clearer, more balanced mind.

The Meaning of Yoga Sutra 1.5

The Sanskrit phrase “Vrittayah Pancatayah Klistaklistah” can be broken down as follows:

• Vrittayah (वृत्तयः) – “Mental modifications, fluctuations, or thought patterns”
• Pancatayah (पञ्चतयः) – “Five types”
• Klista (क्लिष्ट) – “Painful, afflictive, or leading to suffering”
• Aklista (अक्लिष्ट) – “Not painful, neutral, or leading to clarity”

A widely accepted translation is: “There are five types of mental fluctuations, and they can be either painful or non-painful.”

This sutra highlights that our thoughts shape our experience. Some thoughts disturb our peace, causing suffering, while others help cultivate wisdom and self-awareness. Recognizing the nature of these thoughts is the first step toward inner freedom.

Examples to Understand the Meaning of This Sutra

To better grasp Yoga Sutra 1.5, consider these relatable examples:

Example 1: The Two Wolves

An old parable speaks of two wolves inside every person—one represents anger, greed, and fear (klista vrittis), while the other embodies kindness, wisdom, and love (aklista vrittis). The wolf that grows is the one you feed. Similarly, the thoughts we entertain shape our mental and emotional state. Identifying whether a thought is beneficial or harmful allows us to choose wisely.

Example 2: The Mind as a Garden

Imagine your mind as a garden. Klista vrittis are like weeds that overgrow and choke out healthy plants, while aklista vrittis are nourishing flowers that create beauty and balance. By becoming aware of which thoughts dominate our mind, we can cultivate more positive and clear mental patterns.

Example 3: Reacting to an Argument

Suppose someone criticizes you unfairly. A klista vritti reaction would be anger, resentment, or self-doubt, leading to distress. However, an aklista vritti response would involve recognizing that the criticism is a reflection of the other person’s perspective rather than absolute truth, allowing you to remain calm and detached.

The Five Types of Vrittis

Patanjali classifies mental fluctuations into five categories, as he elaborates in the next sutras:

1. Pramana (Right Knowledge) – Perception based on truth, experience, inference, or reliable sources.
2. Viparyaya (Misconception) – False understanding or misinterpretation of reality.
3. Vikalpa (Imagination) – Fantasy or abstract thinking without a factual basis.
4. Nidra (Deep Sleep) – The absence of thoughts in unconscious states.
5. Smriti (Memory) – The retention of past experiences, which can influence the present.

Each of these vrittis can be either klista (leading to suffering) or aklista (leading to clarity), depending on how we relate to them.

Why This Sutra Matters

Yoga Sutra 1.5 is crucial because it teaches that our thoughts determine our reality. By recognizing whether a mental fluctuation is helpful or harmful, we gain the power to guide our mind toward balance and inner peace.

Key Takeaways:

1. There are five types of mental fluctuations.
2. Thoughts can either create suffering (klista) or cultivate clarity (aklista).
3. Recognizing our thought patterns is the first step toward mental freedom.

How to Apply Sutra 1.5 in Daily Life

To avoid being controlled by negative mental fluctuations, practitioners can adopt the following habits:

1. Observe Your Thoughts Without Judgment

• Notice whether a thought is klista (harmful) or aklista (neutral or helpful).
• Practice mindfulness by labeling emotions and reactions.
• Develop self-awareness rather than immediately reacting.

2. Strengthen Positive Thought Patterns

• Engage in self-reflection to challenge negative assumptions.
• Reframe stressful situations by looking for lessons rather than dwelling on suffering.
• Surround yourself with uplifting influences, such as inspiring books, people, or spiritual teachings.

3. Use Meditation to Quiet the Mind

• Regular meditation helps reduce excessive mental fluctuations.
• Breath-focused or mantra meditation can create a more peaceful mind.
• Instead of suppressing thoughts, allow them to pass without attachment.

4. Cultivate a Balanced Response to Situations

• When faced with challenges, pause before reacting impulsively.
• Shift from reactive emotions to thoughtful responses.
• Avoid over-identifying with thoughts and emotions by reminding yourself, “I am the observer of my thoughts, not my thoughts themselves.”

By applying these practices, practitioners can move toward mental stability, clarity, and emotional balance.

Conclusion

Yoga Sutra 1.5 explains that our thoughts shape our inner and outer experiences. By understanding the five types of mental fluctuations and whether they lead to suffering (klista) or clarity (aklista), we gain the ability to create a more peaceful and balanced mind.

Embracing “Vrittayah Pancatayah Klistaklistah” as a guiding principle allows us to cultivate awareness, reduce suffering, and align with a more conscious and fulfilling way of living.