Patanjali's five root afflictions provide a diagnostic framework that enriches CBT's understanding of psychological disorder origins.
The Yoga Sutras identify five kleshas—fundamental afflictions or distortions—as the root causes of all human suffering: avidya (ignorance), asmita (ego/false identity), raga (attachment), dvesha (aversion), and abhinivesha (fear of death). These ancient psychological categories provide remarkable insight into the mechanisms underlying anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and trauma. Avidya parallels cognitive distortions and lack of psychological awareness; asmita reflects identity-based suffering and perfectionism; raga and dvesha encompass approach-avoidance patterns central to many disorders; abhinivesha captures existential anxiety and death anxiety. By understanding clients' presenting problems through the klesha framework, therapists gain diagnostic depth beyond symptom lists. Each klesha points toward specific CBT interventions: addressing avidya requires psychoeducation and cognitive restructuring; asmita work involves identity flexibility and self-compassion; raga and dvesha patterns respond to exposure and acceptance techniques; abhinivesha invites existential therapy work. This multi-dimensional model honors that psychological suffering stems from fundamental misperceptions and defensive patterns, not merely situational triggers. It provides clients with a coherent, dignified understanding of their struggles.
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