Manasika Bhāvas and Lifestyle Stress: An Integrative Ayurvedic Review

Abstract

Lifestyle stress has emerged as one of the most significant determinants of disease burden in the modern world, contributing to a wide spectrum of disorders ranging from anxiety, depression, metabolic syndrome, hypertension, autoimmune diseases, and functional gastrointestinal disorders. Contemporary biomedical science explains stress primarily through neuroendocrine, autonomic, and inflammatory pathways. In contrast, Ayurveda offers a comprehensive psychosomatic framework grounded in the concept of Manasika Bhāvas (mental and emotional states), which influence Doṣa, Agni, and Dhātu functions. Classical Ayurvedic literature recognizes emotional stress as a primary cause of disease and classifies stress-induced disorders as Adhija Vyādhi. This review integrates classical Ayurvedic doctrines with contemporary research in psychosomatic medicine, neuroimmunology, and mind–body medicine to elucidate the role of Manasika Bhāvas in lifestyle stress and its management. Ayurvedic therapeutic principles such as Sattvāvajaya Chikitsā, Āchāra Rasāyana, Daivavyapāśraya, Panchakarma, and Medhya Rasāyana are critically examined in light of modern evidence. This integrative approach provides a scientifically coherent and clinically relevant framework for addressing lifestyle stress and psychosomatic disorders.