The Yogic concept of vritti (mental waves) maps directly to how different parts activate and create reactive thought patterns in Internal Family Systems work.
In Patanjali's framework, vritti refers to the mental modifications or fluctuations that arise in consciousness. Within IFS and Parts work, each internal part generates its own vritti—its characteristic way of perceiving and responding to the world. When a protective part activates, it creates a specific mental wave that colors perception and triggers habitual reactions. Understanding vritti helps practitioners recognize when a part has taken over the internal system, distorting reality through its protective lens. By observing these mental modifications without judgment, as Patanjali teaches, we create space between awareness and reactivity. This observation is foundational to IFS: noticing which part is "blended" with the Self allows us to gently unblend and access the calm, clear perspective from which true healing occurs. Recognizing vritti patterns builds the mindfulness necessary for parts work.
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