Definition - What does Dhriti mean?

Dhriti is a Sanskrit word that means "strength" and is the means by which yogis regulate and sustain their awareness and senses. When a yogi cultivates dhriti, they cultivate the resolve of the mind to control the senses and reactions to external stimuli. Without dhriti, it becomes easy to become distracted from life's goals and purpose.

Yogapedia explains Dhriti

Dhriti is the ability to hold and sustain steadiness and strength in the mind and control over the senses. In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna speaks about dhriti as the unwavering perseverance that is cultivated and used to remain calm, steady and resilient through all the trials and tribulations of life.

Without dhriti, the mind can become restless and a yogi can begin reacting to and following thoughts that lead to thoughtless action. However, with dhriti, a yogi will consistently and patiently draw their awareness back to their breath and and the moment of yoga. When yogis cultivate dhriti in practice, it remains in all aspects of life. Overtime, developing dhritis helps yogis to become balanced with the true purpose of yoga, which is to bring single-pointed focus to life.

Share this: