Applying Yogic Knowledge to Medical Practice.

Abstract

The body and mind are instruments that, through the senses, provide a gateway to conscious experience. One could reduce the totality of human existence to the body and mind alone, yet superficial appearances can be misleading. According to the yogic system, humans are comprised progressively subtle sheaths or koshas, ranging from the physical to the mind, energy, intellect, and bliss body. Furthermore, harnessing the intellect brings a level of control over energy, thoughts, behaviors, and quality of life. This understanding reorients the traditional, allopathic approach, which tends to emphasize the physical body in terms of anatomy, physiology, and clinical pathology. Recognizing deeper layers of self reminds physicians to see patients more holistically, while empowering patients to have greater authority over their own health outcomes.