Transcending awareness by turning inward, using ujjayi, pratyahara and Yoga Nidra.

In our everyday life, awareness flows outward—through the five senses. We see, hear, touch, taste, and smell the world, and that shapes how we respond.

This outward pull of the senses is called bahirmukha vritti—externalized mental activity. Over time, it leaves deep impressions—samskaras—that can become obstacles in our personality: habits, emotional patterns, or mental blocks.

In today’s practice, we will begin to reverse that flow using three powerful yogic tools. With ujjayi pranayama, the ‘victorious breath,’ we calm the nervous system and anchor our awareness inward.

Then we practice pratyahara, the withdrawal of the senses—not by force, but by gently letting go of outer distractions. Finally, through yoga nidra, yogic sleep, we access the subconscious mind where old patterns lie hidden.

By turning awareness inward—antarmukha vritti—we begin to see clearly. And when we see without judgment, the barriers start to dissolve. This is the real transformation: not changing ourselves by willpower, but allowing deep awareness to bring healing and clarity.

Using Hatha Yoga Pradipika ref ch 4 v 21 -25 .

Om Shanti