viparyayo mithyājñānamatadrūpapratiṣṭham
Misconception is false knowledge which is not based on its own form.
Yoga Sutra 1.8
Yoga Sutra 1.7 introduces Pramana as right or factual knowledge, while Yoga Sutra 1.8 describes Viparyaya as wrong knowledge or misperception. Viparyaya occurs when we mistake the unreal for the real, leading to false information and faulty knowledge. This happens when our mental image doesn’t match reality, creating an illusion where we can’t distinguish between what’s real and unreal.
In our yoga practice, Viparyaya can manifest when we push ourselves beyond our limits, ignoring the body’s signals of discomfort or pain. We might mistake our desire to achieve a pose for progress, leading to injuries or setbacks. Pramana, on the other hand, involves listening to our bodies, respecting their boundaries, and practicing mindfulness and awareness.
Viparyaya can also arise in our perception of progress in yoga. We might compare ourselves to others, thinking we’re not flexible or strong enough. This comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy or frustration, clouding our ability to see our own progress. Pramana encourages us to focus on our own journey, celebrating small victories and honoring our unique strengths and limitations.
Sometimes we just need to take that dramatic pause and return to the safety of our breath. To cultivate Pramana in our yoga practice, we must learn to listen to our bodies, enhance our self-awareness, and practice with compassion and acceptance. By doing so, we can peel away the layers of misperception and experience the true essence of yoga – the union of mind, body, and spirit.
Om Hari Om 🙏
Apurva - Yoga with Jenn 