Emotions and their impact on health: An analysis of traditional Tibetan and contemporary Western approache

The emotions play a fundamental role in the quality of both individual and social health. How much do we really understand the emotions, and how well are we prepared to navigate their varied manifestations?;This dissertation examines the Indo-Tibetan Buddhist perspectives on the origins of the emotions and the processes by which they operate, and then compares these to the findings of modern scientific research to ascertain areas of compatibility. This ancient Buddhist tradition, which places the emotions at the core of happiness, health and growth, evolved as a study of mental and emotional states, as well as a practical science for transforming negative emotions and patterns into unbounded modes of being.;In presenting the Indo-Tibetan Buddhist ideas on the emotions, the dissertation looks into three classical approaches to transformation. The first, known in Sanskrit as the Pratimokshayana, is a model for accomplishing inner transformation on an immediate and personal level. It is based on the four noble truths, the noble eightfold path, and the three higher trainings, and results in personal liberation and realization of the true nature of the self In the second model, known as the Bodhisattvayana, the emotions are transformed as a means of contributing to universal benefit. Specific techniques here illustrate the nature and scope of this altruistic approach. The third model, known as the Vajrayana, gives an account of the psychophysiology associated with the emotions and how the unwholesome emotions are themselves used as a method of personal transformation.;Having examined these three progressive Buddhist models, the inquiry turns to a brief survey of three Western disciplines: neuropsychology, psychoneuroimmunology and medical research. These three fields provide compelling evidence for a connection between the emotions and health, suggesting compatibility between Western and Buddhist approaches. Techniques such as meditation and visualization are advocated by a growing number of Western health professionals for stress reduction, blood pressure control, pain management, boosting the immune system, and so forth.;The purpose of this dissertation is not to present a unifying theory of Indo-Tibetan Buddhism and modern science, but rather to demonstrate that much of the emerging scientific data seems to support the Buddhist assumption, namely, that the emotions play an eminent role in the experience of health, happiness and personal growth, and moreover that they can be transformed.