The Panchakosha Model in Contemporary Mental Health: A New Paradigm for Depression

Radhika Kundalia

Assistant Professor, Shyam Lal College, University of Delhi

Abstract:

One of the most common mental disorders, yet problematic enough to obstruct even everyday tasks of an individual, is Depression. In the last few decades it has spread rapidly at a global level. Scientists and researchers have been able to track down many causes as well as ways to treat it. However, strong medication comes with its own harmful side effects. Thus, people nowadays are willing to shift toward something more holistic and  reliable which promotes overall health. 

This paper intends to discuss the known causes of depression and how the Panchakosha model can act as a holistic and complementary approach to overcome it, along with pathological treatment. Panchakosha is a Vedic concept that elaborates upon the five koshas/sheaths with which the human body is believed to be made. These sheaths encompass the Atman, which is the True Consciousness and its nature is Bliss or Ananda. Panchakosha doctrine explains that the Atman is veiled by these five concentric sheaths and to experience Bliss one has to transcend the five sheaths. 
In this paper, I would like to shed some light on how these different sheaths can be understood, accessed and healed. During this process of healing, depression can also be tackled and the individual is led to Ananda. A qualitative textual analysis of some relevant ancient Indian scriptures and contemporary scientific literature has been done. References from Taittiriya Upanishad, Patanjali’s Yog Sutra or the Bhagavad Gita have been made to explore the Panchakosha model in depth and then practical therapeutic approaches have been suggested suitable to the modern times.
 

Full Text:

The Panchakosha Model in Contemporary Mental Health: A New Paradigm for Depression

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