Kleshas and Core Cognitive Distortions

Patanjali identifies five kleshas—avidya (ignorance), asmita (ego), raga (attachment), dvesha (aversion), and abhinivesha (fear of death)—as root causes of suffering. These ancient afflictions closely correspond to cognitive distortions identified in CBT: distorted self-perception, emotional reasoning, selective attention, catastrophizing, and safety-seeking behaviors. Avidya, fundamental misperception of reality, parallels cognitive distortions wherein clients mistake thoughts for facts. Asmita reflects ego-driven perfectionism and shame-based thinking common in depression and anxiety disorders. Raga and dvesha embody approach-avoidance patterns that perpetuate anxiety cycles. Abhinivesha manifests as catastrophic thinking about loss and mortality. By understanding suffering through the klesha framework, CBT practitioners gain a trans-cultural philosophical foundation validating cognitive intervention targets. This yogic analysis suggests that psychological healing requires addressing these fundamental cognitive patterns systematically. Integrating klesha theory enriches CBT by positioning cognitive restructuring not merely as symptom management but as the essential practice of removing fundamental obscurations preventing accurate reality perception and authentic psychological freedom.