Patanjali's vritti (thought-waves) mapped to how different internal parts activate and create distinct mental states, enabling recognition and dialogue with each part.
In the Yoga Sutras, Patanjali describes vritti—the fluctuations and modifications of the mind that obscure our true nature. Each vritti represents a distinct mental current or pattern. Applied to Internal Family Systems, vritti become the signatures of different parts: the protective part manifests as anxiety-vritti, the exiled vulnerable part as grief-vritti, the manager as control-vritti. By recognizing these mental modifications as separate from the Self, practitioners can observe parts without fusion. This foundational awareness allows IFS work to deepen: instead of being consumed by a part's emotion or belief, you notice it as a vritti—a temporary fluctuation arising in consciousness. Patanjali's teaching that the Self witnesses all vritti without being them provides the Self-leadership essential to Parts work, transforming reactive identification into compassionate observation and dialogue.
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.