Abstract

This research examines the biological underpinnings of Chitta-Vrittis—mental modifications as articulated in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras by synthesising Yogic psychology with modern neuroscience. Traditionally, Chitta denotes the mental realm comprising cognition, emotion, and volition, whereas Vrittis represent its fluctuating changes. Patanjali delineates five fundamental categories: Pramana (valid cognition), Viparyaya (false cognition), Vikalpa (imagination), Nidra (sleep), and Smriti (memory). This restricted typology fails to encompass the complete spectrum of cognitive processes recognised in contemporary psychological and neurological studies. To bridge this gap, this work introduces an enhanced theme taxonomy of fifty vrittis, which is classified into epistemic, emotional, conative, pathological, and spiritual dimensions. This encompasses both constructive states, such as Shraddha (faith) and Viveka (discernment), and negative states, including Raga (attachment), Krodha (rage), and Moha (delusion). Each vritti is further analysed through neurobiological frameworks, emphasising their correlation with particular brain regions, including the limbic system, prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and default mode network. The research highlights the dual capacity of Chitta-Vrittis to either obscure or illuminate consciousness and illustrates how Yogic techniques designed to regulate these vrittis correspond with neuro-plastic alterations. Integrating ancient Yogic principles with contemporary biological models offers a comprehensive framework for comprehending mental health, indicating practical uses in psychotherapy, education, and contemplative neuroscience. This integrative approach reinforces Yoga as a spiritual discipline and a scientifically validated emotional and cognitive management method.

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