This text was written for the Booklet of the Yoga Congress of the EUY in Zinal 2025
Abhyāsa and Vairāgya: Practice and Detachment on the Path of Yoga
By Marta Bort Matas
In yoga philosophy, the concepts of Abhyāsa (constant practice) and Vairāgya (detachment) are fundamental to achieving a state of mental and spiritual stability. Both represent two complementary pillars that allow the practitioner to advance in their personal development and achieve inner peace.
Abhyāsa refers to continuous and disciplined practice. It is the sustained effort made to establish a state of balance and concentration. According to Patañjali’s Yoga Sūtras, this practice must be performed with determination and over a prolonged period for its effects to be profound and lasting. It is not only about the repetition of physical postures (asanas) or breathing exercises (prāṇāyāma), but also about cultivating a focused mind and an attitude of self observation. Consistency in practice allows one to overcome obstacles and develop greater mental clarity. On the other hand, Vairāgya is detachment or renunciation of the fruits of action and external distractions. It does not mean indifference or denial of the world, but rather the ability to not cling to ephemeral pleasures or material results. It is a process of liberating the desires and attachments that generate suffering, allowing the mind to remain serene and stable. Vairāgya helps us let go of that which does not contribute to inner growth and allows the practice of Abhyāsa to be more effective.
The relationship between these two principles is essential: while Abhyāsa encourages us to move forward with effort and discipline, Vairāgya teaches us to let go of expectations and accept the present with equanimity. Together, they balance the path of yoga and lead us toward a state of greater harmony and inner freedom. In daily life, applying these principles can help us maintain focus on our goals without being dominated by anxiety or attachment to results, allowing us to live with greater serenity and fulfillment.
Throughout these days, we will practice Abhyāsa (constant practice) and Vairāgya (detachment).
Abhyāsa leads us to Vairāgya. Through this constant practice, we achieve detachment.
Every day, we will practice pre-prāṇāyāma techniques (as my teacher Ramón Casas, who created them, called them), asana, and at the end of the session, we will do a relaxation session where we will breathe and relax in a specific chakra each day.
The purpose of all the sessions is to feel that Abhyāsa leads us to and assists Vairāgya. The path of yoga, its practice, and its observation will help us establish a state of happiness and joy: Ananda.
