CONCEPTUAL STUDY OF MIND AND BEHAVIOUR IN CHARAK SAMHITA; AN INTERPRETIVE ANALYSIS

A proper understanding of mind and behaviour is essential in the field of psychology for comprehending various aspects of psychological disorders. The classical Ayurvedic text, Charaka Samhita, particularly Shareera Sthana, provides a comprehensive description of the mind and its functions. Concepts such as the nature of mind, its components (Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas), karma (actions), types of Vishaya (objects of thought), and its functioning in terms of sensation and perception, as well as Manasika Prakriti (psychological constitution/Personality), are elaborated in Charaka Samhita along with its commentaries, including Ayurveda Dipika by Chakrapanidatta and Jalpakalpataru by Gangadhar. In addition to these, the concept of Moksha (salvation), along with the path to its attainment, was explored and interpreted in the light of modern psychology to elaborate the concept of coping strategies. These ideas were further examined using contemporary psychological literature to enhance the understanding and scope of Ayurvedic psychology. After critical analysis, it was found that various topics of psychology are presented in a systematic and scientific manner in the Charaka Samhita and its related commentaries.