Explore the 5 Kleshas

Explore the Second Klesha – Asmita

Following Avidya, the second of Patanjali’s five Kleshas is Asmita, often translated as “ego” or the sense of “I.” At its root, Asmita is the identification of the Self with the mind, body, or roles we play in the world. While a healthy sense of identity helps us navigate daily life, when we cling too tightly to ego, it creates separation — from others, from truth, and from our deeper nature.

Asmita can show up in subtle ways: comparison on the mat, defensiveness in conversation, or the need to be seen a certain way. These habits of mind reinforce the illusion that we are separate, rather than part of a greater wholeness. Yoga invites us to soften this grip by remembering that we are not just the “I” who acts, achieves, or resists, but the witnessing presence beneath it all.

This month, reflect on where the voice of ego shows up in your practice and your relationships. How might you soften identification with the small self to make room for authentic connection? Where can you practice seeing not just the “I,” but the “we”?

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