Paths To Healing

When anxiety, low mood, or some other form of disabling distress arises, our first instinct is to book an appointment with a GP.  They will then typically identify the presenting symptoms, carry out a preliminary diagnosis and suggest a treatment, which is usually prescription tablets.   If the symptoms are particularly severe, a referral to a psychiatrist may take place for a comprehensive diagnosis and tailored prescription medicines.  If deemed appropriate, a referral to a Talk Therapist may also be made.  

While some changes have occurred in recent years, with GPs encouraging the implementation of, even prescribing, exercise and a healthy diet, by and large, Western medicine predominantly focuses on the diagnosis and management of symptoms.  

From a medical point of view, the underlying cause of most conditions is usually unknown, and it is left to individuals to care for their own health through prevention, until a mental or physical health problem arises that the patient does not know how to address.  

For the most part, the focus is on offering the best possible care to help people manage acute symptoms.  In mental health, this is usually characterised by administering prescription medicines or offering therapeutic/psychiatric support.  

This model has its strengths, however it is not the only path to healing.  In this, and next month’s articles, I will introduce Eastern and Islamic models that offer a uniquely different perspective.  

Raja Yoga

The first of these systems is Patanjali’s 8 Limbs of Raja Yoga.  Described as a “mental science” it  offers a largely preventative approach that can also be applied as an adjunct to Western medicine, depending on individual needs.  

The goal of Raja Yoga is the “restraint of the modifications of the mind-stuff” so that one can abide in their true nature.  In other words, the focus is to gain mastery over the mind so that it is free of doubt, fear, worry, depression, compulsions, and so forth, for the specific purpose of realising one’s true spiritual nature, call it Spirit, Soul, or Self.  

In this view, we are not merely physical bodies and cognitions that stem from the physical brain, but spiritual beings as well.  The goal then is to apply the techniques that Patanjali sets out to achieve mental and physical health, not as an end in itself, but to facilitate complete stillness and calm for spiritual awakening.  

Fortunately, belief in this spiritual self is not required.  Consistent with most Eastern spiritual teachings, the guiding principle is: practice and see for yourself.  

8 Limbs of Patanjali’s Raja Yoga

1. Abstinence or ethical conduct

This means commitment to and practice of: 

• Non-violence
• Truthfulness
• Non-stealing
• Continence
• Non-greed 

We all understand the importance of living a moral life, however we seldom reflect on how it can increase or reduce disturbance in the mind and body.  According to Patanjali, this first step is essential for mastering later stages.  

2. Observances 

This includes:

• Cleanliness
• Gratitude
• Acceptance (over aversion)
• Study of spiritual texts (e.g. Yoga Sutras, Bhagavad Gita, Bible, Torah, Quran)
• Counteracting negative thoughts with positive ones
• Worship/surrendering to God.  

3. Posture (Asana) 

Described as a steady, comfortable posture, it can also include:

• Hatha Yoga
• Or other physical exercises

4. Breath regulation (Pranayama) 

This is controlling the movements of inhalation and exhalation such as Nadi Shodhana. 

5. Withdrawal of senses (Pratyahara) 

Turning attention inward by withdrawing from external sensory experiences and cultivating inner focus.  This can be achieved by closing eyes and meditating.  

6. Concentration (Dharana) 

One pointedness is key to controlling the mind and achieving stillness.  There are many practices for this purpose, including:

• Mindfulness of breathing
• Islamic Dhikr
• Repetition of a mantra
• Tradak (fixed gazing) 

7. Meditation (Dhyana) 

This is a deeper state of sustained awareness of an object or inner stillness.  Practices include: 

• Mindfulness of breathing 
• Vipassana
• Just Sitting meditation

8. Absorption (Samadhi) 

Here we experience the fruits of our efforts; there is no more doing, just being.   The purpose of the practice is achieved: “The Seer (Self) abides in Its own nature”.  

Final Thoughts 

This is a tried and tested ancient healing method for achieving mental wellbeing and spiritual awakening.  Many of its elements have had a strong influence on western minds, resulting in numerous research studies showing that kindness, compassion, gratitude, religiosity, physical yoga exercises, controlled breathing and meditation are all good for health.  

However, remember that this approach is not designed for treating acute or severe mental health crisis.  For PTSD from trauma, or any other chronic distress or disabling mental health condition, it is advisable to get therapeutic or medicinal support.  

Raja Yoga is a largely preventative approach.  For those that choose this path of healing, Patanjali emphasises that the techniques require regular and consistent application to achieve results.  

Wishing you health and happiness.  

Sadaf  

🙂