Significance of Pratyahar

Pratyahar, as defined by Ayurveda and Hath Pradipika, is the fifth limb of Ashtanga Yoga. It signifies a crucial transition in yogic practice. This stage involves withdrawing from external sensory input and redirecting awareness inward. This inward focus marks a shift towards internal exploration and self-reflection, essential for deeper spiritual development in yoga.

Synonyms: Withdrawal, Detachment, Abstraction

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Pratyahar'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Pratyahar is the fifth limb of Ashtanga Yoga. It involves withdrawing from external senses and turning inward, marking a transition to inner awareness, as noted in Hath Pradipika.

Significance in Ayurveda (science of life):
Ayurveda Books

From: International Research Journal of Ayurveda and Yoga

(1) The fifth limb of Ashtanga Yoga, which begins when we shut off external sense organs and look inward, as described in Hath Pradipika.[1]

Ayurveda is a branch of Indian science dealing with medicine, herbalism, taxology, anatomy, surgery, alchemy and related topics. Traditional practice of Ayurveda in ancient India dates back to at least the first millenium BC. Literature is commonly written in Sanskrit using various poetic metres.