In a previous article where I introduced the Sutras of Patañjali, I wrote that the essence of yoga is “the stilling of the fluctuations of the mind.”
In Sutra I.12, Patañjali practically builds on this by explaining how:
abhyāsa-vairāgyābhyāṁ tan-nirodhaḥ
The stilling of the mind is achieved through practice (abhyāsa) and detachment (vairāgya).
Keep practising and keep learning to let go.
What is meant by detachment?
Many people think detachment means distancing yourself from everything, having no desires or passions, perhaps even avoiding relationships, or becoming indifferent to life. But that’s not what Patañjali means.
Detachment is not about withdrawing or becoming emotionless; it’s about finding freedom in how you engage with life. It’s the understanding that, deep down, you are already enough, regardless of whether things go exactly as you want. You learn that desires, expectations, and fears may arise but they no longer control you or determine your happiness.
What this looks like in practice
On the yoga mat: You may feel the urge to perfect a pose, or wish a challenging pose would be over quickly. Detachment means breathing and feeling what is present, without pushing or forcing. You release expectations and remain open to your experience, without judgment.
In meditation: Thoughts come and go; you observe them without getting caught up or labelling them as good or bad.
In daily life: You do your best, invest in relationships, and follow your dreams, but you let go of the outcome. You distinguish between what you can influence and what is beyond your control, which helps you stay calmer and more present. For example, you release the importance you attach to others’ opinions of you, allowing yourself to feel content with who you are.
Detachment is not limited to yoga philosophy. For instance, in AA, the Serenity Prayer is often used:
“God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”
It helps you become aware of what is within your control and what you can let go of, precisely what detachment in yoga is meant to cultivate.
What detachment can bring
By practising in this way, you gradually create more peace and space in your mind and heart. You experience the freedom to truly be present, rather than constantly focused on what “should” be different.
Is it easy? No. It takes consistent practice. You will continually discover areas where you still need to let go. Sometimes this is difficult, and that’s okay. Patañjali mentioned ‘practice’ and ‘detachment’ together in a sutra for a reason. Detachment requires repeated practice, and the yoga mat is a safe place to do this. It allows you to learn how to let go on the mat and, hopefully, carry the lessons into your daily life, helping you approach everything that comes your way with greater ease and calm.
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