Sattvavajaya And Mantra Chikitsa: Twin Pillars Of Mental Healing In Ayurvedic Fundamentals

Abstract

Ayurveda, an ancient Indian medical system, offers a profound and holistic understanding of mental health, integrating the mind, body, and spirit. Within its therapeutic framework, Sattvavajaya Chikitsa and Mantra Chikitsa emerge as pivotal modalities for addressing psychological imbalances. Sattvavajaya, conceptualized as Ayurvedic psychotherapy, focuses on conscious mind control, cognitive restructuring, and ethical discipline to enhance mental clarity (Sattva) and mitigate agitation (Rajas) and inertia (Tamas). Complementarily, Mantra Chikitsa, a spiritual healing approach under Daiva-Vyapashraya Chikitsa, harnesses the subtle power of sound vibrations to influence consciousness, neural pathways, and energetic centers, thereby purifying the mind and fostering inner harmony. This paper provides an in-depth analysis of these two distinct yet synergistic pillars, elucidating their core principles, mechanisms of action, and therapeutic applications as described in classical Ayurvedic texts and supported by emerging modern scientific evidence. The integrated application of Sattvavajaya and Mantra Chikitsa offers a comprehensive pathway to mental well-being, addressing both volitional and subtle energetic aspects of psychological health. Further rigorous clinical research and interdisciplinary studies are warranted to validate and integrate these traditional practices into contemporary [i]global mental healthcare.