They shared their insights on integrating ancient wisdom with modern research to revolutionize psychology, holistic healthcare systems, and wellness in India.
Dr. Laxmidhar Behera, Director of IIT Mandi, highlighted their initiative of combining ancient wisdom with scientific research to develop a holistic science of psychology that goes beyond traditional sciences.
IIT Mandi will have Rs 40 Crore Ayurveda Wellness Centre in the next two years. The center will provide healthcare based on the sustainable principles of India's ancient Ayurvedic tradition to the students, faculty, and staff and others.
Dr Behera said IIT Mandi researchers are delving into the enigmatic nature of the mind and its relationship with the body.
“They are studying unique laws of psychology that do not conform to the laws of physics, chemistry, or biology”.
They are also exploring the concept of consciousness mentioned in the Bhagavad Gita, with the aim of identifying the “bio-switches” responsible for accessing consciousness throughout the body”.
IIT Mandi is incorporating interventions from Indian knowledge systems such as yoga, meditation, prayer, and performing arts to enhance cognition, attention, and cope with stress, disorders, and anxiety. “The idea behind these interventions is to create a happy, healthy, and creative world”, Dr Behera said in his keynote address on the holistic health conclave of the G-20 S-20 Meet organised at IIT Mandi.
Prof. Prem Vrat, the Chairperson of the Board of Governors at IIT Mandi, shared his personal experience from a holistic health center and emphasized the significance of considering health in its entirety.
He mentioned a thought lab at North Capino University, Gurgaon, where positive thoughts are nurtured to enhance peace of mind and overall well-being.
The efforts made by IIT Mandi align with their vision of integrating ancient wisdom with empirical research and promoting holistic approaches to health and well-being. Their aim is to address the growing physical and mental health issues faced by individuals in the country.
Talking about 'generic spirituality', Dr. Ajay Sankhe, director of Bhaktivedanta Hospital and Research Institute, emphasized the pivotal role of positive thinking and mental well-being in holistic health.
He cited the research of Dr. Harold Koenig, which highlights the substantial benefits individuals experience when actively engaging in spiritual practices. He called for integrating health with generic spirituality for a more inclusive healthcare.
Dr. Rama Jayasundar, a professor from AIIMS, New Delhi, highlighted the relevance of Ayurveda, the ancient system of medicine. She advocated for a harmonious balance of Vyu,Kapha,Pitah(VKP) and Sattas, Rajas and Tamas temperaments for new model of health care.
She stressed the need for a holistic approach to healthcare, particularly in the modern age where stress and mental health issues have become predominant concerns.
The conclave also featured experts discussing various aspects of holistic health, including the theoretical framework of Sankhya philosophy, intersectoral coordination in mental health, leveraging digitalization for healthcare management, and the significance of intrinsic motivation for positive change.
Dr. Varun Dutt, Chair of the Indian Knowledge System for Mental Health Applications Centre at IIT Mandi, talked about the therapeutic effects of Indian classical ragas and Odissi dance in reducing stress levels, as well as exploring the effects of chanting the maha-mantra on brain networks.
The conclave concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Arnav Bhavsar, co-coordinator of the Holistic Health Conclave.