Drishti in Yoga: Ancient Wisdom Meets Contemporary Neuroscience

"Where the eyes go, the body follows." This proverb encapsulates the profound role of the eyes in orchestrating our movement, a principle as relevant today as it was in ancient times. From the traditional teachings of yoga to the contemporary practices of Feldenkrais, the eyes are the gateway to perceptual awareness and refined bodily control.

In yoga, the conscious focus of the eyes in specific directions during asanas or meditation is known as Drishti (Dṛṣṭi - दृष्टि), a Sanskrit word that means "gaze" or "vision." Drishti is closely connected to Dharana and Dhyana, the 6th and 7th limbs of the Eight Limbs of Yoga, as described in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. Dharana involves cultivating a single point of concentration in preparation for Dhyana, or meditation.

We use Drishti in two ways in yoga, first, by physically directing the gaze onto a specific point in our external environment, such as onto our hands or feet, which assists in balancing and intensifies focus in asana. Second, we use Drishti to guide our attention inward, helping us steady and settle our minds. The gaze is soft and gentle rather than intense, which can help build concentration and eliminate distractions.

In contemporary neuroscience, our understanding of the intricate link between vision, cognition, and body movement continues to expand. Our eyes are not just passive receivers of light and color but active participants in the way we engage with and interpret our environment. The interconnected nature of eye movement and its significance in focus and attention parallels the yogic practice of Dṛṣṭi. When we focus our gaze during asana or meditation practice, we're training our eyes and our minds. Focusing a soft gaze can bring about an overall calming effect on the mind, reduce distractions, and enhance our ability to stay present.

This alignment of ancient wisdom and modern science can provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of the use of Dṛṣṭi in our yoga practice. It helps us to understand that directing our gaze is not just about where we point our eyes but how we direct our attention and intention, supporting a more focused, mindful, and centered state of being.

1. Nasāgre Dṛṣṭi - Nose Tip - नासाग्रे दृष्टि

2. Bhrūmadhye Dṛṣṭi - Third Eye - भ्रूमध्ये दृष्टि

3. Nābhicakre Dṛṣṭi - Navel - नाभिचक्रे दृष्टि

4. Hastāgre Dṛṣṭi - Hand - हस्ताग्रे दृष्टि

5. Pādāgre Dṛṣṭi - Feet - पादाग्रे दृष्टि

6. Parāvṛtti Dṛṣṭi - Far Distance - परावृत्ति दृष्टि

7. Aṅguṣṭhamadhye Dṛṣṭi - Thumb - अंगुष्ठमध्ये दृष्टि

8. Ūrdhva Dṛṣṭi - Upwards - ऊर्ध्व दृष्टि

9. Dakṣiṇa Dṛṣṭi - Right Side - दक्षिण दृष्टि

10. Vāma Dṛṣṭi - Left Side - वाम दृष्टि

Incorporating the use of Dṛṣṭi into your practice will help you channel your awareness, enhance concentration, and cultivate a sense of inner peace and unity. Practice mindfully, and keep your gaze soft and gentle, not intense or strained. Explore each Dṛṣṭi, and see how it resonates with you and enhances your practice.