Five States of the mind

Sometimes we experience a state of mind that is dull, lazy, and negative, while other times our mind can be cool, relaxed, and happy. In a previous blog post, we talked about how the gunas influence our mental state. These gunas play a role in determining our various states of mind.

Five states of the Mind.

1) Kshipt- क्षिप्त refers to a disturbed state of mind where the predominance of rajas रजस leads to distraction. The mind constantly shifts from one thing to another because of the influence of rajas, making it hyperactive. This kind of mind is always engaged in activities that provoke agitation and anxiety, bombarded by chaotic and disorganized thoughts. Swami Vivekananda has compared this state to a monkey bitten by a scorpion and intoxicated. Greed and pleasures hold great sway in this state, making concentration extremely challenging. In such situations, it is advisable to practice savasana for 10 to 15 minutes.

2) Mudha- मूढ़ it is a stupefied state. Dominated by tamas तमस which is characterised by inertia, ignorance, lethargy and sleep. Basically, it is because of cravings, anger, greed and attachment (काम, क्रोध, लोभ, मोह). One easily gives up and finds reasons not to move. It loses its capability to think properly and it becomes negative. Most of the crimes take place in this state. Connects with the senses, but it is mostly pleasure driven rather sensual pleasures. When one is stuck in such a situation, it is better to engage in some activity or start doing asanas.

3) Vikshipt- विक्षिप्त refers to a restless state of mind. In this state, the mind is primarily influenced by rajas with some presence of Sattva सत्त्व. While some authors consider it to be Sattva dominant, it is commonly the state experienced by ordinary individuals. The mind continuously shifts from one state to another, albeit with some level of stability; it is not as agitated as in the Kshipt state. This state represents a slight improvement from Kshipt, as the mind can focus on something briefly before being distracted by other objects or concerns.

These three states of mind are detrimental to concentration and mindfulness, hindering spiritual growth for those who are interested. All mental fluctuations occur within these three states, causing the mind to concentrate only momentarily.

4) Ekagra - एकाग्र his is the state of one pointedness of mind. Predominance of sattva- the light, purity and knowledge aspect of Prakriti. Mind is concentrated on one object. No modification at all. Conducive to concentration, meditation, and intuitive thinking. The last state of this is Vivek khyati, those who are interested in the spiritual realm.

5) Niruddha - निरुद्ध it is the concentrated state of the mind. Highest state of mind. Accessible to only sages and saints, difficult for ordinary human beings. No vrittis or fluctuations (thoughts) at all. No disturbance. One can see one's own self with no distortions of any kind. Pure discriminative knowledge - Vivek dawns and one realises one's self. All Kleshas(afflictions -ego, attachment, repulsion) get burnt and there is no trace of them.