In yoga philosophy, we often speak about the kleshas, which are obstacles or afflictions that cloud our perception and create suffering in our lives. The word “klesha” comes from Sanskrit and means “cause of suffering,” but understanding these causes can help us see beyond them and find clarity, peace, and wisdom in everyday life.

There are five primary kleshas:

1. Avidya (Ignorance) – Our inability to see things as they truly are
2. Asmita (Egoism) – The identification of the self with the ego, believing "I am this" or "I am that"
3. Raga (Attachment) – Clinging to pleasure or what we want
4. Dvesha (Aversion) – Avoiding discomfort or what we don’t want
5. Abhinivesha (Fear of Death) – The deep-seated fear of change or loss

The kleshas operate like filters, distorting our view of the world. When these afflictions dominate our thinking, we are trapped in a cycle of pain, stress, and confusion. Yoga helps us peel away these layers, encouraging us to embrace reality with more compassion and balance.

But what does this mean in our daily lives? To understand this more deeply, let’s turn to a well-known story.

The Story of the Chinese Farmer

Once upon a time, there was a wise Chinese farmer. One day, his horse ran away. Upon hearing the news, his neighbours came to offer their sympathy, saying, "Such bad luck!" The farmer simply replied, "Maybe."

The next day, the horse returned, bringing with it several wild horses. The neighbours came by again and exclaimed, "What great fortune!" The farmer replied, "Maybe."

The following day, the farmer’s son tried to ride one of the wild horses, but he was thrown off and broke his leg. The neighbours came by to offer their condolences, saying, "Oh, what terrible luck!" The farmer, once again, said, "Maybe."

Soon after, soldiers came to the village to draft young men into the army. Because the son had a broken leg, he was spared. The neighbours said, "What amazing luck!" The farmer simply said, "Maybe."

How This Story Relates to the Kleshas

This story highlights the importance of non-attachment and non-aversion—two major lessons that the kleshas teach us. The farmer neither clings to positive outcomes nor despairs over negative ones. He remains centred, not getting swept up in the highs or lows of life's events. This ability to view life without immediate judgment helps us navigate life’s ups and downs with more ease.

Here’s how the kleshas play a role in our own reactions:

How Can the Kleshas Help Us See More Clearly?

When we practice yoga, we’re not just moving through physical poses; we’re developing a lens through which to see the world with more clarity. By identifying and understanding the kleshas in our own lives, we begin to peel away the layers of illusion that prevent us from seeing life clearly.

• Through regular practice of mindfulness, asana, and breathwork, we start recognising our attachments and aversions. Rather than reacting impulsively to events, we can respond with greater wisdom and balance.
• By cultivating awareness, we start seeing that many of our emotional reactions are rooted in fear or ego, not in the actual circumstances of the moment. As we break free from this cycle, we suffer less.
• By recognising that life is impermanent and ever-changing, we can release the fear of loss and step into a more accepting, peaceful state of mind.

Ultimately, the kleshas are like veils that distort our vision. As we peel away these layers, we see the world—and ourselves—with more clarity, compassion, and understanding.

Final Thoughts

Just like the Chinese farmer, we can learn to navigate life with a sense of balance and non-attachment, even in the face of uncertainty. By understanding the kleshas and applying these teachings in our lives, we begin to live more peacefully, accepting each moment as it comes—without clinging to the highs or resisting the lows.

As you continue your yoga practice, consider how these kleshas show up in your own life. With awareness, patience, and practice, we can all start to see the world a little more clearly.