MIND BODY HARMONY: YOGA, MEDITATION AND INDIGENOUS PRACTICES IN STRESS MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Yoga is a light which once lit never dim, the better your practice the brighter your flame" -B.K.S. Iyengar."To Awaken, sit calmly, letting each breath clear mind and open your heart"-Buddha In an era marked by increasing psychological stress and lifestyle-related disorders, holistic approaches rooted in ancient traditions have gained renewed relevance.Yoga & Meditation is an ancient practice since evolution.The practice of Yoga is believed to have started with the very dawn of civilizations.Yoga traces its origins to early Indian philosophical systems and texts such as the Vedas and Yoga Sutras of Patanjali.The core concept of Yoga is union, derived from the Sanskrit word "yuj," meaning to join or yoke the union of mind, body, and spirit.Meditation is a mind-body practice involving focused attention to cultivate a relaxed, alert state of mind, leading to inner peace and psychological balance.Likewise, Indigenous healing practices across cultures have historically relied on nature-based therapies, rituals, and community-centered healing to maintain balance and well-being.The objective of the study aims to explore the historical origins and philosophical foundations of yoga, meditation, and indigenous practices and assess their effectiveness in reducing stress and enhancing well-being also examine their relevance and integration in modern stress management practices.Methodology used is qualitative research based on secondary data sources.Findings of the paper is yoga and meditation contribute to stress reduction by promoting relaxation, improving concentration, and regulating emotional responses and physiological benefits include reduced heart rate, improved breathing patterns, and decreased stress hormone levels.Indigenous practices balance these effects by strengthening social bonds, and reinforcing cultural identity, and encouraging harmony with nature, which enhances resilience and emotional stability.