Patanjali's framework of root psychological obstacles (ignorance, ego, attachment, aversion, fear) that compound ADHD challenges and shape suffering beyond neurology alone.
The kleshas are the five fundamental mental afflictions: avidya (ignorance), asmita (ego/false identity), raga (attachment), dvesha (aversion), and abhinivesha (fear of loss). Patanjali teaches that these are the source of all suffering, and they layer onto neurodevelopmental differences in powerful ways. With ADHD, ignorance might manifest as not understanding your own neurology, leading to self-blame; asmita creates a fixed identity as 'broken' or 'lazy'; raga drives unhealthy attachment to external validation or stimulation; dvesha creates avoidance of challenging tasks; abhinivesha generates anxiety about losing control. Unlike medication or coaching alone, understanding kleshas addresses the psychological infrastructure beneath ADHD struggles. By recognizing these patterns, you can work with them directly through awareness and inquiry. Patanjali's yoga offers systematic methods to dissolve each klesha: knowledge, right perspective, non-attachment, equanimity, and acceptance. For ADHD understanding and living, this means untangling neurological traits from psychological patterns, enabling more compassionate and effective transformation.
Peri can explain this concept, give practical examples, help you decide whether it applies to your situation, or recommend a journey if appropriate.
Explore related journeys or tell Peri what you're working through.