Klesa Identification Framework

Patanjali identifies five kleshas (afflictions): avidya (ignorance), asmita (ego), raga (attachment), dvesha (aversion), and abhinivesha (fear of death). These form the root of emotional dysregulation—they are the underlying patterns that generate reactive emotions. Avidya creates the fundamental confusion about our true nature, leading to anxiety and identity-based emotions. Asmita generates pride, shame, and defensive reactions. Raga creates desperation, frustration, and disappointment through excessive attachment. Dvesha creates anger, resentment, and avoidance through resistance. Abhinivesha generates existential anxiety and control behaviors. By learning to identify which klesha is operating beneath a specific emotional reaction, practitioners develop psychological literacy that precedes transformation. Rather than simply managing anger or anxiety, this framework reveals the deeper pattern generating surface emotions. Someone experiencing persistent frustration recognizes it as raga (attachment to outcomes). Recognition of the underlying affliction pattern allows targeted practice that addresses root causes rather than symptoms, creating lasting emotional regulation rather than temporary emotional suppression.