Moralization of Desires in Vethathiri Maharishi’s SKY Introspection practice - A Multilevel Conceptual Model Linking Introspective Regulation to Mental Health, Family Harmony, and Universal Peace
H. Saravanakumar, Kalavathi Sekar
International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research March 9, 2026 DOI: 10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i02.70932 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Proposes that Moralization of Desires, a SKY-based introspective method combining meditative stabilization, desire listing and analysis, consequence evaluation, and ethical alignment, can serve as a testable psycho-ethical regulation model. Argues that its stages correspond to mechanisms such as decentering, cognitive reappraisal, executive control, and gratitude, and that it offers a culturally coherent, scientifically compatible pathway for mental health, family, and peace-building research. |
Abstract
Desire - defined in SKY doctrine as a mental attachment to person and materials is a universal motivational force that can advance survival and growth when regulated, but yield suffering when excessive or misaligned with ethical considerations. Simplified Kundalini Yoga (SKY), as taught by Vethathiri Maharishi, proposes Moralization of Desires (MOD) as a structured, introspective method for regulating desire rather than eradicating it. MOD integrates meditative stabilization (Thuriya), systematic listing and analysis of desires (men, materials, pleasures), consequence evaluation, and ethical alignment culminating in detached action (Nishkamya Karma). This conceptual paper translates the SKY steps into a testable psycho - ethical regulation model, links each stage to contemporary mechanisms (decentering, cognitive reappraisal, executive control strengthening, and gratitude), and maps hypothesized outcomes at the Self, Family, and Universal Peace levels. We synthesize recent empirical evidence on mindfulness, self - regulation, gratitude, family-based interventions, and digital delivery to demonstrate plausibility and outline a rigorous empirical agenda. The SKY-grounded MOD model offers a culturally coherent, scientifically compatible pathway for research and translational application in mental health, family interventions, and peace - building initiatives.