The Yoga Paradigms of Psychological Discipline: The Perspective of the Bhagavat Gitā

Abstract

The practice of Yoga represents a fascinating paradigm of psychological discipline. In a world that is constantly evolving, the importance of yoga has surfaced as an essential practice for promoting well-being and cultivating responsible global citizens. Originating from Indian philosophy, yoga transcends its philosophical roots to include principles of healthy and sustainable living, along with psychological resilience. It provides practical assistance to individuals facing stress and uncertainty in modern life. This article aims to investigate the meaning and importance of Yoga practice as a model of psychological discipline. Psychology, as the study of human behaviour and mental discipline, identifies the mind and its functions as the source of all forms of mental disorders and, consequently, all types of psycho-physical stress and distress. The Bhagavat Gitā stands out as the sole text that comprehensively addresses the concept of Yoga, relating it to various aspects of human life, including action, knowledge, devotion, and more. It illustrates the practice of Yoga through an intellectual comprehension of its meaning and significance, distinguishing it from mere physical exercises such as Asanas, essential practices like prānāyama, and even psychological exercises such as dhyāna, dhāranā, and samādhi. The Bhagavat Gitā emphasizes self transformation through both theoretical understanding and practical application of the foundational Yoga disciplines. It interprets the term 'Yoga' to signify various meanings, including 'the skill of performing duty', 'the equanimity of mind', 'the capacity to maintain a Yogic posture', 'the ability to be grounded in Yoga', 'the capacity to remain anchored in Pure consciousness', 'the sense of Viveka and Vairāgya', among others. Therefore, in the Bhagavat Gitā, Yoga is regarded as a multifaceted model of psychological discipline, not limited to a singular interpretation.