Interconnections of Yogic Practices With Mental Health

Abstract

Yoga, an ancient practise of humankind, attempts to promote a lifestyle that is free of maliciousness with emphasis on inculcating qualities that would aid the individual in living a life that is truly actualizing. Practise of yoga is not limited to holding specific asanas but various components of yoga such as pranayama, pratyahara, etc.; all attempt to enhance an individual's wellbeing. The chapter has contextualized yoga therapy including pranayama, mudras, and chakras to biopsychosocial models, and attempted to identify yogic practises that bring holistic enhancement. Yoga, being cost-effective, and having no side effects, unlike pharmacological treatments, can be used as an adjunctive therapeutic agent in improving symptoms or improving mood and reducing stress. However, it is important to note the feasibility and limitations of yoga interventions, like proper trained professionals to minimize any ill effects. The chapter attempted to promote the practise of yoga as an adjunctive form of treatment which would thereby aid in improving biopsychosocial wellbeing.