Mind training is an essential part of Yoga. The mind is identified by its various states and activities. Mind, (a manifestation of Prakriti) is a composite of the three Gunas. That is, sattva (purity), rajas (activity) and tamas (dullness). The fluctuations in the mind are a reflection of the disequilibrium of the three gunas, which is the common nature of all creation.

The Five States of Mind

Kshipta (agitated/scattered)

This is the most common state of the mind; that most of us are in during our waking hours. This state is fully dominated by the guna ‘rajas’. In this state, the mind is totally restless. Thus,  jumping from one thought to another, from one emotion to the next and from object to the next.

Mudha (dull, lethargic)

The mudha state is dominated by the guna ‘tamas’ in which the mind is dull, sleepy, Lethargic and lacking any alertness. During the waking state, one usually alternates between the kshipta and the mudha states.

Vikshipta (partially focused)

This state of mind is distracted. But it can be occasionally steady or Focused. It is the “monkey mind” that often disturbs us in meditation. We can concentrate and be alert for a period of time. And then some attraction or aversion distracts us and the mind wanders.

Ekagra (one-pointed)

When the mind has attained the ability to be one-pointed; meditation becomes possible and the real practice of yoga begins. Our internal and external activities are no longer a distraction. Thereby, helping us to focus on daily tasks while being undisturbed by other stimuli.

Nirodha (state in which the mind is mastered)

Nirodha means “cessation” or “dissolution.” Yoga is defined as “Yogas chitta vritti nirodha.” This means that yoga is the cessation of all the vrittis (movements) of the mind.  Therefore, the mind gets finally dissolved into a state of equilibrium of the gunas; which leads to final liberation.

When training the mind, the practitioner should eliminate the agitated or lethargic state. Thereby, being more focused and mindful.

Iti Jain

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