Sadvritta As A Behavioural Framework For Mental Health: An Ayurvedic Perspective
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48165/IRJAY.2026.90201Keywords:
Manasika Bhava, Mental health, Mindfulness, Pragyaparadha, Sadvritta, TrigunaAbstract
Mental health is an essential part of overall well-being and is shaped by a combination of biological, psychological, behavioural, and lifestyle factors. Although modern psychiatry has made significant progress, most approaches still focus more on treatment than on prevention and health promotion. In this context, Ayurveda offers a broader and more holistic understanding of health, emphasizing the balance between body, mind, senses, and consciousness. Among its principles, Sadvritta—described in classical texts like Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita—provides a detailed code of conduct that includes ethical living, personal discipline, and control over mental activities. The present review explores the role of Sadvritta in promoting mental health and attempts to relate its principles with concepts from modern psychology and neuroscience. The review suggests that Sadvritta influences mental health through multiple pathways. It supports better thinking and decision-making by strengthening higher mental functions, encourages healthy behavioural patterns through disciplined living, and promotes emotional balance by regulating the Triguna—enhancing Satva while reducing Rajas and Tamas. These effects are comparable to modern ideas such as executive function, emotional regulation, and mindfulness. Sadvritta also plays an important preventive role by reducing Pragyaparadha (~errors in judgment), which are considered a root cause of many mental and psychosomatic disorders. In addition, its emphasis on ethical conduct and positive social behaviour contributes to improved psychological well-being. Overall, Sadvritta can be understood as a practical and holistic framework for maintaining and promoting mental health. Its similarities with modern scientific concepts highlight its relevance in today’s context. However, more focused research is needed to support its integration into modern mental health care.
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