Mental Health: From the Perspective of Yoga, Ayurveda, and Yagya Therapy

Abstract

This classical and conceptual review presents an analysis of yogic, Ayurvedic and yajna-based approaches for mental health on the basis of ancient Indian scriptures (Yoga Sutras, Ayurveda, Shrimad Bhagavad Gita) and the literature of Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya. In the present times, due to numerous problems and extremely complex circumstances, the human mind is becoming increasingly unhealthy, as a result of which neither sensations nor information reach the brain in the correct form, nor are they properly interpreted. Because of this, a state of constant confusion persists in the mind and brain. When this condition intensifies, it gives rise to stress. For this very reason, people today are becoming progressively afflicted with mental stress day by day. As a consequence, the individual is unable to maintain harmony within the family and society and is becoming weak in physical, mental, spiritual and social health. To address all these problems, it is extremely essential for a person to remain mentally healthy. For this purpose, practices such as the Manomaya Kosha sadhana described by Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya, along with pranayama and yajna-related activities within yogic practices, can prove highly effective. Through the sadhana of the Manomaya Kosha, all mental disorders can be removed. While pranayama is a powerful means for controlling the mind, yajna therapy can reach the roots of subtle disorders at places where other medicines cannot reach; according to traditional literature, medicines transformed into smoke can reach through various pathways, act swiftly and are considered helpful in relieving human beings from pain and suffering. Thus, all these disciplines, which have originated from our ancient Indian knowledge itself, can prove beneficial for humankind.