Pratyahara - withdrawal of the senses

Pratyahara is the conscious withdrawal of the senses. We receive input from our surroundings through what in Sanskrit are called the Jnana Indriyas, or instruments of knowledge. They are the senses of taste, touch, hearing, smell and sight. In ideal circumstances we reduce the flow of information coming into the mind. By merely closing the eyes and mouth we limit the sensory information we receive from our surroundings. By remaining still the sense of touch is less stimulated. Our sense of smell is one of our weakest senses, but also deeply rooted to our memories and emotions. By drawing the mind inwards we can better understand the nature and behaviour of the mind.

Forget the body, forget the surroundings...give up all sorts of fears, cares, worries and anxieties. Rest in the ocean of silence.

- Swami Sivananda

sleeping bird - Mahabodhi Temple, Bodhgaya, India