Citta, The Heart-Mind

This week we move into a different layer of the self — citta. This Sanskrit word is often translated as “mind,” yet its meaning extends far beyond that. In much of the world, we have grown accustomed to separating thoughts from emotions — as if the mind and the heart were two different territories. But in yoga philosophy, citta embraces both. Thoughts and emotions are understood as different vibrations within the same field of awareness called citta: thoughts are vibrations with a stronger linguistic and logical component, while emotions are vibrations with greater affective charge.

As I mention this, I’m not suggesting that one is better than the other. What I want to highlight is that the human experience encompasses both — thought and emotion — and that embracing both allows for a more complete sense of self. Personally, learning to honor these two sides has been a lifelong journey. As a man, I grew up valuing logic and often dismissing emotion. Over the years, I’ve learned to welcome both: to distill the feeling behind my thoughts and to give words to what I feel. This practice has led to a deeper understanding of myself and a much richer experience on the mat.

I can’t tell you what embracing citta in its fullness will look like for you — that’s something only you can discover. It is, after all, an ongoing journey for each of us.

I look forward to seeing you in class as we continue to explore this layer of self.

Breathe easy. 

Blessings

Jorge Nihāl