Indriyas are the ten senses of a yogi, which are central to the practice of yoga and the cultivation of self-awareness. The indriyas are divided into five sensory and five motor functions, which work together to help us experience and navigate the world around us. Here’s a closer look at the ten indriyas and how they relate to the practice of yoga:
Smell (Ghrana)
Smell is the first of the five sensory functions and is associated with the element of earth. In yoga, the sense of smell is often used in pranayama (breathing exercises), which can help to balance the body and mind.
Taste (Rasa)
Taste is the second sensory function and is associated with the element of water. In yoga, the sense of taste is often used in diet and nutrition, as well as in the practice of pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses).
Sight (Chakshu)
Sight is the third sensory function and is associated with the element of fire. In yoga, the sense of sight is often used in the practice of asana (physical postures), which can help to develop balance, strength, and flexibility.
Touch (Sparsha)
Touch is the fourth sensory function and is associated with the element of air. In yoga, the sense of touch is often used in the practice of asana, as well as in the practice of meditation, which can help to cultivate a greater sense of awareness and presence.
Hearing (Shrotra)
Hearing is the fifth sensory function and is associated with the element of ether. In yoga, the sense of hearing is often used in the practice of mantra (sacred sounds), which can help to calm the mind and promote spiritual growth.
Speaking (Vaak)
Speaking is the first of the five motor functions and is associated with the element of ether. In yoga, the act of speaking is often used in the practice of mantra, as well as in the cultivation of right speech (ahimsa or non-harm).
Grasping (Pani)
Grasping is the second motor function and is associated with the element of air. In yoga, the act of grasping is often used in the practice of asana, as well as in the cultivation of dharana (concentration).
Walking (Pada)
Walking is the third motor function and is associated with the element of fire. In yoga, the act of walking is often used in the practice of meditation, as well as in the cultivation of right action (karma yoga).
Procreating (Upastha)
Procreating is the fourth motor function and is associated with the element of water. In yoga, the act of procreating is often seen as a natural part of life, but is also seen as a potential distraction from spiritual growth.
Excreting (Payu)
Excreting is the fifth and final motor function and is associated with the element of earth. In yoga, the act of excreting is seen as a natural part of life, but is also seen as an opportunity to practice mindfulness and non-attachment.
In summary, the indriyas are a fundamental part of the practice of yoga and the cultivation of self-awareness. By paying attention to our senses and how they relate to the world around us, we can develop a greater sense of presence and connection, as well as deepen our understanding of ourselves and others. Through the practice of yoga, we can learn to use the indriyas in a way that promotes spiritual growth, compassion, and well-being.
