The Bridge Between Worlds: Discover the Magic Within.

Welcome to part 3 of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras: Pratyahara.

Welcome to part 3 of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras: Pratyahara.

In week one, we explored the first two limbs of yoga, the yamas and niyamas, which serve as the foundation for a harmonious and fulfilling life.

Part 1: New Earth Blueprints for Ethical, Sustainable, and Heart-centred Living.

Last week, we dived into the profound health benefits of yoga's third and fourth limbs, asana (physical postures) and pranayama (breath control), essential tools for creating balance and harmony within.

Part 2: Balance Your Energy: A Mindful Practice for Inner Peace & Harmony

Pratyahara: Withdrawal of the Senses

Pratyahara, the fifth limb of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, is the practice of withdrawing the senses from the external world. By turning inward, we detach from distractions, quiet the mind, and cultivate deeper self-awareness.

The inward journey of Pratyahara allows us to explore the magic within, deepening our connection to the true self.

It allows us to pause and observe ourselves, recognising cravings and habits that may obstruct our growth. This awareness helps us break negative patterns and reduce our attachment to sensory pleasures.

As the senses withdraw, our intuition awakens, revealing inner wisdom, creativity, and peace.

Pratyahara bridges the external (the first four) and internal (the final three) limbs of yoga.

“Just as a tortoise withdraws its limbs, so when a man withdraws his

senses from the sense objects, his wisdom becomes steady.”

Bhagavad Gita

Yoga Nidra - Discover the Magic Within

Yoga nidra is a method of Pratyahara, and one of my favourite practices for healing the body and restoring balance. We withdraw our awareness from the external world, directing our consciousness inwards.

I have experienced instantaneous healing through this practice, accelerating recovery and relieving discomfort in my body. It is the first yogic practice I introduce to my patients during yoga therapy, as true healing begins with deep relaxation.

Yoga nidra, meaning yogic sleep, brings deep physical, mental, and emotional relaxation while keeping you fully conscious. Though the body appears asleep, the mind remains highly aware and receptive. In this state between wakefulness and sleep, true relaxation and healing occur.

This powerful practice improves sleep, reduces anxiety, and calms the nervous system, enhancing overall well-being. It boosts energy, sharpens focus, and sparks creativity, promoting mental clarity. By reducing distractions, it cultivates presence and inner peace.

At the start of yoga nidra, we set a sankalpa—a powerful resolve that plants the seed of our desired outcome. With sincere faith, feeling, and willpower, this seed grows, reshaping our subconscious and influencing all aspects of life.

In deep relaxation, the mind becomes highly receptive, enabling us to reprogram our thought patterns. It embraces positive suggestions and reinforces empowering beliefs, helping us break negative patterns and create lasting positive change.

Reclaim Power over your Mind with this Restorative Practice.

Regular practice allows the body, mind and spirit to heal on a deep cellular level and will train your subconscious mind to cure disease, restore health and promote vitality.

If today’s article has inspired you to give it a try, check out my Chakra Healing Yoga Nidra here:

I’d love to hear how you get on with the yoga nidra practice.

Give it a go and pop back here to share your experience with us.

I look forward to hearing from you!