Applied Positive Psychology

Eastern and Western Perspectives on Positive Psychology

IGNOU|MAPC 1st Year|MPCE 046|Block 1, Unit 3

COMPARATIVE FRAMEWORKS

Western vs Eastern Perspectives on Well-being

Western Individualistic Framework

Focuses on Autonomy and self-efficacy.
Emphasizes Hedonic well-being (happiness, pleasure).
Goal is often Self-actualization and personal achievement.
Dualistic approach (separating mind and body).

Eastern Collectivistic Framework

Focuses on harmony and interdependence.
Emphasizes Eudaimonic well-being and Equanimity.
Goal is often Self-transcendence and liberation (Moksha).
Holistic approach (mind, body, and spirit as one).

INDIAN PSYCHOLOGY

Bhagavad Gita: Equanimity & Nishkama Karma

Sthita Prajna (Person of Steady Wisdom)

A state of mental equilibrium where an individual is unperturbed by sorrows, free from cravings for pleasures, and liberated from attachment, fear, and anger. Cultivating equanimity is central to well-being in Indian psychology.

Nishkama Karma (Desireless Action)

Performing one's duties (Karma) selflessly without attachment to the outcomes or fruits of the action. It fosters deep psychological resilience, reduces anxiety about the future, and promotes intrinsic motivation and pure dedication.

INDIAN PSYCHOLOGY

Panca Kosha Model (Five Sheaths of Existence)

From the Taittiriya Upanishad, true well-being is achieved when all five layers of human existence are nourished and harmonized:

1. Annamaya Kosha (Physical Sheath): Nourished by food and physical health.

2. Pranamaya Kosha (Vital Energy Sheath): Maintained by breath (Prana) and vitality.

3. Manomaya Kosha (Mental Sheath): Involves thoughts, emotions, and sensory inputs.

4. Vijnanamaya Kosha (Intellectual/Wisdom Sheath): The faculty of discrimination and deeper insight.

5. Anandamaya Kosha (Bliss Sheath): The innermost core, experiencing unconditional joy and peace.

BUDDHIST PSYCHOLOGY

Mindfulness Foundations & The Middle Path

Four Noble Truths

Dukkha (Suffering exists)
Samudaya (Origin of suffering is craving)
Nirodha (Cessation of suffering is possible)
Magga (The Eightfold Path leads to cessation)

Key Practices

Vipassana: Insight meditation focusing on deep interconnection between mind and body.
Karuna: Cultivation of deep compassion for all sentient beings.

Core Realizations

Anicca (Impermanence):
Everything is in a constant state of flux. Clinging to the transient causes suffering.

Anatta (Non-Self):
The illusion of a permanent, independent "Self." Recognizing interdependence leads to true freedom.

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