When most people hear the word yoga, they think of stretching, asanas, or maybe a peaceful meditation session. But thousands of years ago, Sage Patanjali defined yoga in a much deeper way:
“Yogas chitta vritti nirodha.” This short phrase carries the true essence of yoga.
What Does “Yogas Chitta Vritti Nirodha” Mean?
- Chitta → the mind or consciousness.
- Vritti → the fluctuations, patterns, or waves of thought.
- Nirodha → control, stilling, or calming.
Together, it means: Yoga is the stilling of the fluctuations of the mind.
The Goal of Yoga
- Quiet the mind through practice (asana, pranayama, meditation).
- Develop non-attachment, so we are not slaves to desires or fears.
- Experience the Self – the pure awareness beyond thoughts.
This is why yoga is called a path of freedom. When the vrittis are stilled, we are no longer controlled by stress, distractions, or illusions.
How to Practice Yogas Chitta Vritti Nirodha in Daily Life
- Start with the breath – Deep, mindful breathing calms the nervous system.
- Meditate daily – Even 10 minutes of silence can reduce vrittis.
- Observe thoughts without judgment – Like clouds passing in the sky.
- Balance effort with ease – Discipline (abhyasa) and detachment (vairagya) go hand in hand.
Experience Patanjali’s Wisdom in Rishikesh
At Rishikesh Adi Yogi, our 200-hour and 300-hour Yoga Teacher Training Courses go beyond the physical practice. You will learn:
- The philosophy of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras.
- How to apply chitta vritti nirodha in meditation and teaching.
- Ways to live yoga as a complete lifestyle.
Yoga isn’t just something you do – it’s something you become.
Join us in Rishikesh, the yoga capital of the world, and experience the true meaning of yoga.
