Five fundamental psychological afflictions (ignorance, egoism, attachment, aversion, fear) that generate all suffering, providing a depth-oriented diagnostic framework for holistic healing.
The kleshas are five root afflictions that Patanjali identifies as the source of all psychological suffering: avidya (ignorance), asmita (ego-identification), raga (attachment), dvesha (aversion), and abhinivesha (fear of death/dissolution). Rather than treating symptoms superficially, this framework invites practitioners to trace suffering to its metaphysical roots. In integrative mental health, the kleshas function as archetypal patterns underlying diverse presentations—anxiety may express abhinivesha; relationship conflict may stem from raga and dvesha; depression often indicates avidya and asmita. This taxonomy honors the complexity of psychological life while suggesting that healing at deeper levels addresses multiple surface manifestations simultaneously. By addressing the root kleshas through contemplative practice, philosophical inquiry, and experiential work, clients don't merely suppress symptoms but dissolve the ignorance generating them. This depth-oriented approach aligns integrative therapy with wisdom traditions while providing practical guidance for transformative rather than merely symptomatic treatment.
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