Pratyahara is the fifth limb of the 8-fold path of Yoga and is considered to be the gateway between the external (bahiranga) and the internal (antaranga). This important stage could be perceived as a portal to inner realms, preparing the yogi for Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi. Pratyahara is defined in the Yoga Sutras as the withdrawal of the senses from external objects back to the mind field from which those senses originally arose, thus enabling the mind to focus on its true nature. Pratyahara practices lead to a state of deep relaxation, expanded awareness and inner stability.
