The nexus between cognition and emotion shapes human experiences, influencing perceptions, decisions, and responses. This research delves into the distinctive viewpoint offered by Indian philosophical and psychological traditions regarding this dance of thought and feeling. Infusing ancient Indian psychology with age-old wisdom provides a transformative exploration of the interplay between cognition and emotion. Indian thought emphasises the inseparability of cognition and emotion within a unified whole. The study is based on ancient Indian perspectives, combining cognition and emotion, which have practical applications for emotional regulation, self-awareness, and overall well-being. Empirical validation and ancient Indian testing are necessary, as well as investigating cognitive and neural mechanisms and ethical considerations. Longitudinal studies are needed to understand lasting effects. By bridging ancient sagacity with contemporary discernment, this study enriches understanding of the intricate choreography that guides human behaviour and psychology.
TopIntroduction
The quest to understand human existence has perennially grappled with the intricate interplay between cognition and emotion. It is within this complex dynamic that the transformative journey of self-discovery, as viewed through Indian philosophical traditions, assumes paramount significance. Indian thought, with its rich tapestry of spiritual and philosophical discourse, offers not just a different viewpoint but a vibrant paradigm that interweaves the transformative power of self-awareness with the lived experience of emotions (Chopra & Anand, 2017; Sengupta & Ray, 2021).
This chapter seeks to distill the essence of this transformative power by delving into the interconnectedness of cognition and emotion as conceptualized in the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita. These texts do not merely present theoretical constructs but serve as a practical guide to navigating life’s complexities through the harmonization of thought and feeling, thus inducing a vibrancy in the application of ancient Indian wisdom to contemporary life (Jha & Verma, 2020; Sharma & Kapoor, 2015).
The vibrancy of Indian thought is injected into this ancient wisdom through its ability to transcend time and remain relevant in the modern context. It is through the application of these enduring principles to contemporary challenges that their vibrancy is most acutely felt. For instance, the application of mindfulness in modern psychotherapy or the integration of Yogic practices into daily routines for stress management showcases the living, breathing nature of these teachings (Mukherjee & Chakraborty, 2019; Thakur & Chakraborty, 2022).
The theoretical framework elucidating the interconnectedness of cognition and emotion is deeply rooted in the concept of 'Sattva,' which represents a state of balance and harmony in Indian philosophy. This state is the ideal equilibrium where the cognitive and emotional aspects of being are aligned, facilitating a holistic experience of well-being and clarity (Roy & Mukherjee, 2017).
Addressing a potential conflation of terms, this chapter distinguishes between 'consciousness' and 'cognition.' While both are integral to the study of psychology, Indian traditions often place consciousness at a higher echelon, transcending cognitive processes and encapsulating a broader spectrum of human experience, including the self, which is seen as beyond mere cognition (Kak, 1997).
Contrary to the notion that Indian contributions to the study of consciousness have not been systematically examined, this chapter acknowledges the growing body of research integrating Indian philosophical practices into mainstream medicine and psychology. Mindfulness, breathwork, and other concepts derived from Indian thought are increasingly being incorporated into evidence-based research within integrative medicine and holistic healing paradigms (Lakshmi & Das, 2019).
In light of this, the chapter proposes a refined narrative that situates Indian philosophical insights at the beginning, setting the foundation for a nuanced understanding of cognition. By doing so, the reader is equipped with the conceptual tools to appreciate the subsequent discussion on the relationship between cognition and emotion (Verma & Sharma, 2020).
The choice to translate 'Ananda' as emotion rather than bliss is deliberate, as it encompasses a broader spectrum of human emotional experience, which is pertinent to the cognitive category being explored. This translation allows for an examination of the full range of human emotions, recognizing that while positive emotions such as bliss are significant, the full gamut of emotions, including fear and anger, play a crucial role in the human experience (Ranganathan, 2018).
In conclusion, the self, or 'Atman,' is portrayed as transcending the layers of cognition and emotion, signifying a universal oneness that underpins the essence of Indian psychological thought. This chapter, therefore, takes care to accurately depict the nuanced distinctions between self, cognition, and emotion, as presented in the Taittiriya Upanishad, thereby honoring the depth and integrity of these concepts (Dasgupta & Roy, 2016).
As we navigate through the rich landscape of Indian philosophy, we are reminded that the dance between cognition and emotion is not a mere interaction but a deeply transformative art, woven from the threads of tradition, spirituality, and the human quest for meaning. This exploration is a call to scholars and practitioners alike to engage with this dance, to embrace its complexities, and to continue its exploration with a renewed perspective that honors the unity and diversity of human consciousness