Avidyā - all is not what it seems

Avidyā in the Yogic philosophy refers to ignorance, false perception and misapprehension. I can easily think of situations when I was wrong and refused to acknowledge it at the time. Our perception is clouded by many factors such as self-righteousness, a narrow perspective, lack of knowledge, suggestibility, taking the least line of resistance, a false sense of security and sense of preservation, etc. Misconceptions affect our thinking, understanding and behaviour  in a long run causing suffering and delusion. There are four branches of avidya:

• Asmita / ego - being convinced one is right, wanting to be better than others, self-image (both positive and negative);
• Raga - greed/attachment - wanting things because we are attached to them and because we associate them with a pleasurable experience rather than actually needing them; not getting those things creates dissatisfaction and disappointment leading to suffering and distorted view of what we need and how to use our resources;
• Dvesha - rejection/denial - rejecting things that we associate with unpleasant or difficult experiences, becoming complacent, opinionated or, on the other end of the scale - having no confidence in one's own ability;
• Abhinivesha  - fear (including fear of death) - we are unwilling to get out of our comfort zone for various reasons. Fear of discomfort, challenge, changes, the unknown - create attachment to the status quo, anxiety, trepidation and distorted view of of how things are and how things can change. 

First we need to acknowledge that Avidya does affect our perception. Secondly self-reflection and contemplation will help to notice those unhealthy thinking patterns. Yoga practice (including meditation and pranayama) are essential tools in this self-awareness journey. Building a clearer, more genuine understanding and perception may slowly help us make right decisions and enjoy a more balanced life.