| Abstract: |
Approximately ninety-five percent of everyday cognitive and behavioural reactions are controlled by the subconscious mind, and they occur in deep-seated impressions, known as samskaras in yogic philosophy. In reorganizing these subconscious patterns, this paper examines the Pratyahara (sensory withdrawal) and Dharana (one-pointed concentration) (the fifth and sixth limbs of Ashtanga Yoga of Patanjali) in the reorganization of these patterns. The study is based on a synthesis of the systematic literature review made up of secondary data analysis of peer-reviewed neuroscientific and psychological studies that will be conducted between 2010 and 2025, and evaluates physiological, neurological and psychological outcomes. It is assumed that Pratyahara and Dharana systematic practice reprograms subconscious tendencies by regulating the connectivity of the default mode network, enhancing the activity of theta and alpha waves and reducing the strength of maladaptive neural grooves. Findings obtained based on confirmed empirical data have shown that there are significant improvements in perceived stress, anxiety and cortisol, as well as prefrontal cortical thickness, better working memory as well as increased parasympathetic tone. These findings are congruent with the yogic psychology of samskara dissolution in the discussion. The research comes to the conclusion that Pratyahara and Dharana are scientifically valid means of subconscious re-programming and mental health. |
