INTEGRATING INDIAN KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS AND YOGIC PRACTICES FOR ENHANCING COGNITIVE AND EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT: A NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL THEORETICAL PERSPECTIVE
EPRA International Journal of Research & Development May 6, 2026 DOI: 10.36713/epra27478 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Proposes the Integrated Yogic Neuro-psychological Model (IYNM), which maps Indian philosophical constructs (Manas, Buddhi, Chitta, Ahamkara) onto specific neural systems (attentional networks, prefrontal executive systems, hippocampal memory structures, Default Mode Network). Argues that yogic practices act as cognitive technologies that enhance executive control, hippocampal integrity, and emotional regulation while modulating self-referential processing. |
Abstract
Background: The Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) and the traditions of yoga provide us with a complete insight into the mind, cognition, and consciousness. Nevertheless, the frameworks are not very connected with the modern neuroscience, which restricts their scientific integration and use in cognitive and mental health studies.
Objective: The objective of the paper is to come up with a composite theoretical framework that combines the Indian philosophical models of mind with the contemporary neuropsychological systems to explain the cognitive and emotional development in terms of the framework of yoga practices.
Methods: A conceptual and theoretical synthesis approach was employed which involved the synthesis of Classical Indian philosophical writings (Yoga, Vedanta, Samkhya) with the current neuroscientific findings of cognitive neuroscience, affective neuroscience, and neuroimaging research. The framework aligns the conventional psychological constructs with the validated brain networks and functions. Proposed Framework It suggests the Integrated Yogic Neuro-psychological Model (IYNM) that conceptualizes the interactions between yogic practices and neural systems as the origins of cognition and emotion. Attentional networks, prefrontal executive systems, hippocampal memory structures, and the Default Mode Network (DMN) are mapped onto Core IKS constructs, Manas, Buddhi, Chitta, and Ahamkara respectively. The Yogic practices (Asana, Pranayama, Dharana, and Dhyana) are conceptualized as cognitive technologies, which can control the autonomic work, boost neuroplasticity and restructure large scale brain networks. Results • The framework combines evidence that yoga and meditation practices: • Increase activation of the prefrontal cortex and executive control. • Enhance structural integrity and memory of the hippocampus. • Less hyperactivity and stress reactivity of amygdala. • Selectively activate the Default Mode Network activity related to self-referential Keywords: Indian Knowledge Systems; Yoga; Neuroscience; Cognitive Enhancement; Emotional Regulation; Neuroplasticity; Meditation; Default Mode Network; Neuropsychology