Vairagya and adaptability as psychological buffers: yogic perspective on coping with grief and loss
International Journal of Community Medicine and Public Health September 30, 2025 K. J. Sridevi
Grief is a universal experience shaped by cultural, psychological, and spiritual factors. Traditional models like the Kübler-Ross stages and the dual process model lack a transpersonal dimension. Yogic philosophy, particularly Vairagya (detachment) and adaptability (psychological flexibility), offers complementary perspectives for coping with loss. Vairagya provides balanced detachment to acknowledge sorrow without being consumed, while adaptability supports adjustment to new realities and fosters resilience. Together they promote emotional regulation, cognitive flexibility, and post-traumatic growth. Evidence indicates yoga, mindfulness, and related practices enhance resilience, reduce rumination, and strengthen coping. Community-level applications like yoga-based grief support programs highlight potential for culturally sensitive mental health strategies, bridging ancient wisdom with modern clinical relevance.