Sanatan Roots, Modern Shoots: The Evolution And Impact Of Mindfulness Practice In Modern India With Pharmacological Balance Of Ayurveda On Mindfulness Through The Lens Of The Indian Knowledge System

Mindfulness in India has shifted from its ancient roots in Sanatan philosophy and the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) into a range of practices, from spiritual discipline to secular clinical interventions. Interviews with 25 Indian meditators from Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore who practice Vipassana, yoga, and dhyana revealed that they apply mindfulness to daily life for emotional regulation and stress management. Participants reported improved emotional control, reduced anxiety and depression symptoms, and practical benefits in work and family settings. They emphasized that Sanatan values like witness consciousness, selfless action, and non-violence enhance their practice.

Study at a glance

Abstract

In india, the birthplace of contemplative traditions, mindfulness has evolved from its ancient roots in sanatan philosophy and the indian knowledge system (iks) into a diverse spectrum of practices ranging from spiritual sadhana (discipline) to secular clinical interventions. This study examines the factors contributing to this transformation, focusing on individuals practicing meditation within the framework of iks including the insights from ayurveda. Researchers conducted in-depth interviews with 25 indian participants from metropolitan hubs (delhi, mumbai, bangalore) who engaged in traditional practices such as vipassana, yoga, and dhyana to investigate their application of mindfulness in daily life and its impact on emotional regulation and stress management. Participants reported improved emotional control, reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, and practical benefits in professional and family contexts. Many emphasized the continued relevance of sanatan values such as sakshi bhava (witness consciousness), karma yoga (selfless action), and ahimsa (non-violence), which they perceived as enhancing the significance and effectiveness of their practice. However, participants also noted challenges in maintaining consistent routines (sadhana) amidst the distractions of modern urban life and the rapid commodification of wellness. Also the pharmacological balance provided by ayurveda acts not as a sedative, but as a vital adjunct to mindfulness. The study identifies a tension between traditional spiritual depth and contemporary secular "mcmindfulness" approaches, highlighting the necessity for practitioners to remain connected to ethical frameworks. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of mindfulness in the indian context and inform the development of culturally sensitive, iks-grounded mindfulness programs for public health and education in alignment with the national education policy (nep) 2020.