ABSTRACT
Contemporary biomedicine focuses on treating diseases that can be explained by a particular pathogen or physiological mechanism. In contrast, yogic models including the kosha system and integrative medical frameworks such as the biopsychosocial-spiritual model explore the interconnected layers of an individual’s experience. Both paradigms help us to understand that the dynamic state of well-being results from an ever-changing expression of the multiple domains of health. As demonstrated by growing research, the social and spiritual domains significantly influence health and well-being and are especially relevant to the framework of yoga therapy as a distinct practice. This chapter moves between ancient yogic and contemporary integrative health models to provide a translational language that can enhance the accessibility of traditional philosophies for current healthcare contexts, including research, systems, and work with individual clients. We also explore the shared and distinct characteristics of spiritual and eudaimonic well-being and consider the latter’s specific health effects.
