The yogic practice of withdrawing attention from overwhelming external stimuli to regain internal control, essential for trauma survivors experiencing hypervigilance.
Pratyahara, the fifth limb of Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, is the conscious withdrawal of the senses from external objects—a foundational technique for trauma recovery. When PTSD keeps the nervous system locked in threat detection, pratyahara offers a structured way to redirect attention inward, away from triggering environmental stimuli. Rather than dissociation, this is deliberate sensory management: closing the eyes, focusing on breath, muting external noise. Patanjali teaches that mastery over the senses precedes mental control. For trauma survivors, pratyahara creates a safe container where the mind can process without being hijacked by triggers. This practice directly addresses hypervigilance by teaching the nervous system that it can choose what to pay attention to, gradually rebuilding agency and reducing the constant scanning for danger.
Peri can explain this concept, give practical examples, help you decide whether it applies to your situation, or recommend a journey if appropriate.
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