॥ अभ्यासवैराग्याभ्यां तन्निरोधः ॥
"The control of those mind-fluctuations is achieved through practice and dispassion"

Abhyāsa & Vairāgya: Yogic Tools for Modern Life

Yoga is defined as the restraint of fluctuations in complexities of the mind (yogaḥ citta-vá¹›tti-nirodhaḥ, SÅ«tra 1.2). To achieve this, Patañjali prescribes two essential tools: Abhyāsa and Vairāgya (abhyāsa-vairāgyābhyāṁ tan-nirodhaḥ, SÅ«tra 1.12). These twin pillars of the yogic path remain remarkably practical and relevant, even in today’s fast-paced world.

These two are never truly separate. Abhyāsa without Vairāgya can lead to restlessness, and Vairāgya without Abhyāsa can become passive detachment. But together, they establish a mental equilibrium akin to homeostasis — a state of dynamic balance. They complement each other like inhalation and exhalation, day and night. If Abhyāsa is the positive aspect where active participation is crucial, Vairāgya is the negative aspect where letting go is central.

Sage Patañjali defines Abhyāsa as persistent effort to remain steady, and Vairāgya as dispassion or freedom from cravings. Together, they offer a powerful combination to attain a balanced state of mind — one that remains undisturbed by stress, loss, illness, or other external upheavals.

Abhyāsa cultivates unwavering focus, while Vairāgya dissolves attachments that block our inner ascent. If these disciplines can lead a yogÄ« to kaivalya — the pinnacle of liberation and bliss — their transformative power for an ordinary person is equally profound.

The practice of Vairāgya can begin with small renunciations — things one can easily do without. Gradually, with sustained Abhyāsa, one learns to let go of deeper attachments. A student, for example, can give up distractions and train the mind to remain inwardly focused.

Such is their importance that in the Mahābhārata, Kṛṣṇa advises Arjuna to conquer his doubts and inner turmoil through Abhyāsa and Vairāgya. These timeless principles are not mere techniques — they are profound inner disciplines that build a resilient, serene mind. In embracing them, we gain more than peace — we gain the power to stand unmoved in the face of life’s greatest challenges. 

Column by Rahul A. Khamamkar