Ayurveda and Mental Health

A 4-part series with Dr. Rammanohar, BAMS, MD

Current approaches to understand the human mind are based on a reductionistic model of the mind with an over-emphasis on bio-molecular mechanisms and interventions. There is no consideration of the higher mental functionalities or spiritual dimensions of the human personality. Medications have side-effects and creates long-term dependence. Long-term use of medications causes tolerance and loss of efficacy. The Ayurvedic definition of mental health includes physical and mental ranges, also and also extending into the spiritual domain of human experience. Mental health in Ayurveda covers a diverse array of topics, as indicated below:

Balance of Triguṇas – Sattvaguṇa presides over Rajas and Tamas.
Balance of Tridoṣas – Kapha stabilises Vāta and Pitta.
Well developed Prajñā – Dhī, Dhṛti and Smṛti
Emotional Stability – not overwhelmed by Rāga, Dveṣa, Lobha, Moha, Mada Mātsarya
Maitrī – friendship and healthy social relationships
Kāruṇya/Anukaṃpā – Compassion, Empathy
Sampatvipatsvekamanaḥ – Mental balance, Ability to cope
Self Actualisation – Svāsthya

This course will highlight the key elements of the Ayurvedic approach to nurturing mental health in a holistic manner with an emphasis on unravelling the spiritual potential of the individual.