Both Buddhism and Ayurveda, originating in India, share a common goal of alleviating suffering. Ayurveda is a comprehensive system dealing with physical, psychological, and spiritual well-being through eight branches. Buddhism, on the other hand, focuses on mental well-being and addressing human suffering, referred to as “Dukkha.” Ayurveda, with roots dating back to 3500 BC, integrates practices like yoga and meditation. Its primary goal is to cure physical and mental ailments through therapies like Daivavyapasraya, Yukti vyapasraya, and Satvavjay Chikitsa. Both systems emphasize holistic well-being, each addressing different aspects of health.
The relationship between Buddhism and Ayurveda is intertwined, despite the term “Ayurveda” not being found in Vedas or Buddhist literature. During the Buddhist era, medical concepts and practices from Ayurveda were widely adopted. In the evolution of Ayurvedic texts like Charak, Susruta, and Vagbhata, there was a notable shift away from mantras and rituals in favor of more practical medical approaches. In Buddhist literature, Buddha is described as both a physician and surgeon, emphasizing his ability to alleviate suffering, much like a surgeon removes foreign elements from the body. This connection highlights the integration of Ayurvedic principles into Buddhist thought and practice.
The book “Bhaisajja Manjusa,” a classical text of Sri Lankan traditional medicine, written in 2ND BC, highlights the crucial role that Buddhism and Traditional Desheeya Chikithsa played in preserving the mental and physical health of ancient Sri Lankans. In 2012, UNESCO recognized the significance of this book by declaring it a national heritage. The ancient healthcare system of Sri Lanka was meticulously managed by native healers, and it was an endemic system unique to the region. Notably, Sri Lanka is home to the world’s first hospital, which was constructed in Mihintale by king Devanampiyatiss in 3rd BC.This rich heritage underscores the deep-rooted traditions of healthcare and healing practices that have been an integral part of Sri Lanka’s history.
“An Historical Relation of the Island Ceylon” published in 1681, the renowned British sea captain and traveler, Robert Knox, made a noteworthy observation. He pointed out that “all old Sri Lankan people were doctors.” This observation underscored the deep-rooted tradition of healthcare and healing in Sri Lanka, where most elderly individuals possessed extensive knowledge of herbs, roots, and leaves to treat various ailments. It serves as a testament to Sri Lanka’s rich heritage in the field of healthcare.
In Traditional Sri Lankan Ayurveda, the approach to mental health and well-being encompasses both physical and spiritual aspects.
Traditional Sri Lankan psychiatry, often referred to as “Manasika Roga Chikitsa,” recognizes that mental health is deeply connected to the balance of the doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), the individual’s constitution (Prakriti), and the person’s state of mind (Sattva, Rajas, Tamas). Here are some key elements of the spiritual treatment approach within Ayurvedic traditional psychiatry:
Buddhist Ayurveda Psychotherapy” is indeed a therapeutic approach that integrates principles from Buddhism and Ayurveda into psychotherapy. In this context, it likely combines mindfulness techniques, meditation practices, Ayurvedic dietary and lifestyle recommendations, and possibly other elements to address mental and emotional well-being. This approach may be used to help individuals manage stress, anxiety, depression, or other psychological challenges by drawing on the holistic principles of both Buddhism and Ayurveda..
The psychology behind Buddhism is a rich and profound aspect of the religion and philosophy. Buddhism places a strong emphasis on understanding the nature of the mind and the causes of suffering, and it offers various psychological insights and practices to help individuals alleviate suffering and attain inner peace. Here are some key elements of the psychology behind Buddhism