Drishti Defined
Drishti is a Sanskrit word that has been used in the practice of yoga for centuries. It refers to a focused gaze or gaze point, and is an important aspect of yoga practice that helps to bring the mind and body into a state of harmony. The word “Drishti” comes from the Sanskrit verb “drs,” which means to see or to look. Therefore, Drishti can be translated as “that which is seen.”
Drishti Sanskrit Pronunciation
The Sanskrit word Drishti is pronounced as “dree-shtee.” This term is an important aspect of yoga practice, and is used in both physical postures (asanas) and meditation practices.
Including Drishti In Your Practice
How is Drishti Used in Yoga?
In yoga, Drishti is used as a tool to help bring the mind and body into a state of balance and harmony. It is used in physical postures to help increase focus and stability, and in meditation practices to help bring the mind into a state of mindfulness and mental clarity.
In balancing yoga poses, Drishti helps to maintain balance and stability by providing a fixed point for the gaze. When practicing a posture, the yogi focuses their gaze on a single point, such as the tip of their nose or a specific spot on the wall, ceiling, or floor. This helps to keep the mind focused and the body stable, preventing wobbling and falls.
By maintaining a focused gaze, the practitioner is also able to quiet the mind, reducing thoughts and distractions. This increased mindfulness and mental clarity can lead to a more peaceful and relaxing state of being.
How is Drishti Used in Meditation?
In meditation practices, Drishti is used to bring the mind into a state of mindfulness and mental clarity, much like in yoga asanas. By focusing the gaze on a single point, the mind is able to let go of thoughts and distractions, bringing a sense of inner peace and calm. This focus helps to deepen the meditation practice, allowing the practitioner to fully immerse themselves in the present moment.
How is Drishti Used for Different Poses?
- In standing poses like Virabhadrasana II (Warrior II), the drishti is directed towards the front hand, fostering mental clarity and steadiness.
- In balancing poses such as Vrksasana (Tree Pose), the gaze is often fixed on a single, unmoving point to maintain equilibrium and cultivate inner stability.
- In inversions like Adho Mukha Vrksasana (Handstand), the drishti is directed towards the ground, facilitating both physical alignment and a sense of grounding.
Paying attention to Drishti in various asanas allows yogis to refine their focus, develop greater self-awareness, and experience the transformative power of yoga more fully.
Note that poses can have multiple common Drishti points. So in your practice you may find that different instructors will recommend different Drishti points or provide multiple options for guidance.
Why Is Drishti Important?
In addition to the physical and mental benefits of using Drishti in yoga, it also has a spiritual significance. In Hinduism and Buddhism, the concept of Drishti is used to symbolize the act of seeing with the inner eye. This inner vision is said to bring the yoga practitioner closer to a state of enlightenment, allowing them to see and understand beyond the physical world.
Drishti is an essential element of yoga practice, providing physical, mental, and spiritual benefits. Whether used in physical postures or meditation practices, incorporating Drishti into your practice can greatly enhance your experience, bringing a sense of inner peace and calm. Whether you are a seasoned yogi or just starting out on your journey, incorporating Drishti into your practice is sure to bring a greater sense of focus and mindfulness to your experience.