Yoga and Mental Health: A Brief Exposition

Abstract

The phrase “Indian Philosophy” designates philosophical schools that have their roots in the Indian subcontinent. There has been consistency in expanding this field of philosophical inquiry across time, which has given rise to a diverse array of texts and philosophical systems. The Samkhya, whose epistemology and metaphysics Patanjali brought in the second century BC, was a close ally of the Yoga School, which was established by him. Since ancient times, yoga has been practised as a discipline. But, as a result of its association with the Samkhya, it made an effort to create a unique philosophy that would be compatible with the Samkhya Philosophy. There are eight phases to practising yoga, despite the common misconception that it consists just of asanas. These steps stress internal and external cleaning, self-discipline, physical health, and meditation, which promotes alertness and mental power. A method of abstract meditation or mental abstraction is known as yoga. Yogi or yogini is a term used to describe someone who does yoga or adheres to the yoga philosophy with a high level of dedication. Almost everyone can benefit physically from yoga, and the practise can also have psychological and spiritual effects, including feelings of transcendence or connectivity to God or the Spirit as well as stress reduction and health. Stress on the mind has a significant role in our lives. Living a stress-free existence and maintaining mental tranquilly is the toughest difficulty. This essay aims to examine yoga philosophy in the context of contemporary intellectual thought as well as how it may be used to uphold human wellbeing.