Welcome to a transformative journey into the heart of Applied Yoga philosophy! In this 6-week online course, we will delve deep into the profound teachings of the five kleshas, exploring them not only as obstacles on the path to happiness but also as fundamental human energies that can be harnessed and alchemized through the sacred practices of Tantra.

Yoga, an ancient system of spiritual and physical development, offers a holistic approach to understanding the human experience. At its core, Yoga recognizes the existence of obstacles, known as kleshas, that hinder our path to true happiness and self-realization. These kleshas are like veils that obscure the brilliance of our inner selves, trapping us in cycles of suffering, ignorance, and attachment. However, within these very obstacles lie the seeds of our potential transformation.

In Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, the five kleshas are described as the obstacles or afflictions that hinder an individual's spiritual growth and self-realization. These kleshas are fundamental aspects of human nature that can lead to suffering and ignorance. Here are the five kleshas along with their definitions:

1. Avidya (Ignorance): Avidya is the root cause of all other kleshas. It represents a fundamental misunderstanding or ignorance of the true nature of reality. This ignorance leads individuals to identify with their ego, their physical bodies, and the material world, rather than recognizing their true essence as pure consciousness.

2. Asmita (Egoism): Asmita is the sense of individuality or ego. It is the tendency to identify oneself as separate from others, leading to a strong attachment to one's self-image and a sense of superiority or inferiority. This attachment to the ego creates suffering and prevents us from experiencing a deeper sense of unity with all beings.

3. Raga (Desire and attachment): Raga is the attachment to pleasurable experiences and the desire to possess or hold onto things that bring pleasure. It is the craving for sensory and emotional gratification, which can lead to suffering when these desires are not met or when they become the primary focus of one's life.

4. Dvesha (Aversion) Dvesha is the opposite of raga. It represents aversion, hatred, or avoidance of experiences, people, or things that are unpleasant or cause discomfort. Aversion can lead to negative emotions and reactions, creating further suffering and preventing inner peace.

5. Abhinivesha (Fear of Death): Abhinivesha is the fear of death or the strong attachment to life and the physical body. It can manifest as a deep-seated fear of change and a clinging to the familiar. This fear can be a significant obstacle on the path to spiritual growth, as it keeps individuals trapped in the cycle of birth and death.

In Patanjali's Yoga philosophy, the practice of yoga is aimed at overcoming these kleshas through self-awareness, mindfulness, and spiritual discipline. By recognizing and addressing these obstacles, individuals can free themselves from suffering, attain self-realization, and experience inner peace and liberation.

Throughout this course, we will navigate the intricate landscape of the kleshas, unraveling their intricacies and discovering the wisdom hidden within them. We will explore how these obstacles manifest in our lives and learn practical techniques to work with them, ultimately transcending their limiting influence. Moreover, we will embark on a profound journey into the realm of Tantra, where these kleshas are seen not as adversaries but as raw materials for inner alchemy and spiritual growth.

Harshada will guide you through a rich tapestry of teachings, practices, and meditations, offering you the tools to transmute these energies into sources of empowerment, wisdom, and joy. Whether you are a seasoned yogi or just beginning your spiritual journey, this course is designed to deepen your understanding of Yoga philosophy and empower you to lead a more fulfilling and liberated life.

Join us on this transformative exploration of the five kleshas, and unlock the boundless potential that lies within you. Embrace the path to happiness and self-realization, as you learn to harness and alchemize the very energies that shape your existence. Welcome to a journey of self-discovery and transformation that will resonate with you long after these six weeks have concluded.