Lived experiences of spiritual emotional intelligence: a Bhagavad Gitā-based indigenous model of psychological wellbeing
Frontiers in Psychology December 11, 2025 Sai Kiran Gannamraju, Venkatesh H. Chembrolu
Spiritual Emotional Intelligence (SEI), a framework derived from the Bhagavad Gitā, comprises five dimensions: self-awareness, equanimity, non-attached action, virtuous duty, and devotion. Interviews with 26 participants from diverse backgrounds revealed that applying these principles enhances self-reflection, emotional regulation, intrinsic motivation, ethical decision-making, and a sense of meaning. Even participants neutral toward religion resonated with Gitā-based values like mindfulness and integrity, suggesting universal psychological applicability. SEI integrates spiritual and emotional competencies to foster psychological flourishing and moral purpose, grounding emotional intelligence in an indigenous Indian worldview and expanding culturally responsive approaches to well-being.