Dr Manju Antil (Counselling Psychologist and Psychotherapist)

The intricate tapestry of Indian philosophy and psychology offers a profound understanding of the human psyche, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and emotions. This holistic approach provides valuable insights into the psychosomatic and emotional mechanisms that govern our well-being.

At the heart of Indian philosophical thought lies the concept of the mind-body-emotion complex and its relation to the self or consciousness. Advaita Vedānta, one of the six orthodox schools of Hindu philosophy, delves into the non-dualistic nature of reality, suggesting that the ultimate truth is the unity of the individual soul (Atman) with the universal soul (Brahman). This perspective encourages a deep introspection into the nature of emotions and their impact on the body and mind.

The Sāṃkhya philosophy, another pivotal school, introduces the concept of Triguṇa — the three fundamental qualities of nature: sattva (goodness, constructive, harmonious), rajas (passion, active, confused), and tamas (darkness, destructive, chaotic). These qualities are believed to influence an individual's emotional experiences, shaping their perception of the world and their reactions to it.

In the realm of Indian psychology, the focus is on mental health and the transformative potential of spiritual experiences. The Bhagavad Gita, a seminal text, presents a dialogue between Arjuna and Krishna, which highlights the psychological turmoil and subsequent enlightenment of a warrior in the face of moral dilemmas. This narrative underscores the importance of self-awareness and the resolution of internal conflicts for psychological well-being.

The vision of emotions in Indian psychology is not limited to a mere cognitive understanding but extends to their role in spiritual life. Emotions such as faith (śraddhā) and devotion (bhakti) are seen as pathways to transcendence and self-realization. This positive representation of emotions challenges the often negative connotations associated with them, proposing that they can be harnessed for personal and spiritual growth.

Methodological pluralism is a hallmark of Indian psychology, which respects the diversity of experiences and emphasizes the inner state of a person. This approach is not confined to religious or dogmatic beliefs but is grounded in applications that foster positive transformation and well-being.

The Indian perspective on emotions and cognition is vividly described across various philosophical systems, including Nyāya-Vaiśeṣika, Vedānta, Sāṃkhya-Yoga, and Buddhism. Each system offers unique insights into the nature of emotions and their interplay with cognition, highlighting the significance of emotions in our worldly experiences.

In conclusion, the Indian philosophical and psychological traditions offer a rich and nuanced understanding of the inner psychosomatic and emotional mechanisms. By attending to these inner workings, one can embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation, leading to a harmonious balance between the mind, body, and spirit.

References:

1. The Phenomenon of Emotions in Indian Philosophical System: Some Reflections.

2. WHAT IS INDIAN PSYCHOLOGY: TRANSCENDENCE IN AND WHILE THINKING.

3. Indian psychology - Wikipedia.

4. THE VISION ON EMOTIONS ACCORDING TO INDIAN PSYCHOLOGY.