Adhinivesa

As I prepared for the last session of the 11th series of Thrive, thoughts of my participants reminded me of the Yogic concept of adhinivesa. It is one of the kleshas, the mental states that block our ability to know our true nature as universal beings having a human experience. Adhinivesa is often translated as "clinging to life" but non-dualistic traditions it is understood as the deep instinctive will to carry on. We see this in all of nature. Plants bend to reach sunlight. A spider rebuilds its web. A bird returns to build its nest each spring. That same force exists in us.

Yoga, at its core, is a practice of remembering that. Not by bypassing our pain, but by reconnnecting us with the part of ourselves that knows how to survive and heal. In fact, when the British invaded India, Yoga became a quiet form of resistance. It allowed people to connect with their heritage, emphasizing self-governance of body and mind during a time of external control. That same spirit of self-determination has flowed through liberation movements worldwide. Many Civil Rights leaders turned to yoga and meditation to stay grounded while facing violence and dehumanization.

Yoga is so much more than a physical practice. It is a practice of self-determination. It is the nervous system reclaiming it's right to safety. It is the body refusing to be convinced that it is unworthy.

When we breathe slowly and move with awareness, the body shifts out of the threat response. Over time, the neural pathways that support presence, steadiness, and self-respect grow stronger. The practice doesn't fix us; it reminds us of who we already are.

In this world, it can be easy to grow jaded, judgmental, or angry. It’s easy to feel the urge to shut everything out. But, to me, adhinivesa shows up in the ways we take time to heal, reclaim our lives, and move forward with love. Whether this resonates with you today or not, I invite you to pause and acknowledge yourself. Know that your continued existence is a courageous act.

Your presence matters, and it is inspiring.