Klesha (emotional afflictions) are the five root causes of suffering in relationships: attachment, aversion, ego, false belief, and fear of loss.
Patanjali identifies five kleshas (afflictions) that cloud perception and perpetuate suffering: asmita (ego-clinging), raga (attachment), dvesha (aversion), abhinivesha (fear of death/separation), and avidya (ignorance). In attachment dynamics, these five operate together: asmita creates defensive ego-positions; raga drives anxious clinging; dvesha fuels avoidant withdrawal; abhinivesha generates abandonment terror; avidya sustains the false belief that wholeness depends on the other. Understanding attachment patterns through the klesha framework reveals that insecure attachment isn't a character flaw but an understandable protective strategy against perceived relational threats. Healing involves recognizing each klesha as it arises in the nervous system, understanding its protective function, and gradually releasing it through awareness and new relational experiences. This yogic lens depathologizes attachment struggles while offering a clear map for dismantling the five emotional obstacles to secure, authentic connection.
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