Elevating Saya: Integrating Mundhumi Soul-Consciousness into Public Health and Modern Stress Interventions

The modern 21st century has reached the peak of technology and material prosperity, but ironically! The human mind is at its most stressful and turbulent point in history. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has recently declared mental health a significant public health problem worldwide. Modern psychiatry is frequently concerned with brain chemistry and biological abnormalities, and overlooks the social, cultural and environmental context of the person. A medical anthropological approach to the study of illness, health and disease suggests that illness and disease experiences are deeply connected to culture, lifestyle and identity of individuals (Singer & Baer, 2011). The Mundhumi philosophy has been in practice for a very long time among the Kirat community of Nepal, a very rich, original and indigenous knowledge system for understanding and dealing with mental stress, anxiety and depression. 'Saya: Mundhumi Consciousness and Stress Management' is more than a cultural ritual; it is a strong base in Public health, Health psychology and Anthropology. With a hectic and stressful life in the 21st century, it is not possible to remain in a state of complete health with just chemical pills and medicines. People can achieve inner peace only when they feel a bond with their culture, nature, and community. If this love-psychology of nature, collectivism and ‘Saya Chongma' is adaptable to modern life, it will play a significant role in building a stress-free, balanced life of a self-respecting society.