Fifth limb of Raja Yoga - Pratyahara

After the practice of Pranayama comes the next step - Pratyahara. Pratyahara refers to controlling the sense organs from going outwards.

Normally we all engage in pleasures brought by sense organs. We are slaves of these sense organs. The Panchendriyas (the five sense organs) constantly drag our attention to external objects and become obstacle in the attainment of Yoga.

It is, therefore, essential that we keep ourselves isolated from the worldly pleasures and sorrows brought by the sense organs. Ever observed a tortoise? How it takes its body parts inside when disturbed. The same way a Yogi detaches his mind from the external affairs. This practice is of course not easy for many but is one of the essential thing on the royal way to Yoga.