Integrating Vedic Wisdom into Psychotherapy: Creation, Maintenance, and Destruction
In the Vedic tradition, the cosmic cycle of creation, maintenance, and destruction (or dissolution), is a fundamental principle. These forces are not only active in the universe around us but also within our inner psychological world. Modern psychotherapy can draw deeply from this ancient wisdom to support personal growth, healing, and transformation.
At any point in time we can see these forces play out in all the facets of our lives, as well as the world around us. For example, when we think about any relationship we are in, we can see it progress from the creation stage, through maintenance, to dissolution. Even in relationships that are long term, the relationship itself goes through these 3 stages many times as the relationship evolves and parts that no longer serve are dissolved, to make way for new creative aspects.
Creation: New Beginnings
In therapy, the creative force emerges when we explore new narratives, beliefs, and possibilities. This might look like:
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Developing healthier coping strategies
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Imagining a new future after loss or trauma
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Discovering parts of the self that were previously hidden
Creation is about planting seeds of change—small shifts in thought, behavior, or perspective that grow over time.
Maintenance: Stability and Integration
The maintenance phase is about preserving what is working well and nurturing new growth. Psychotherapy helps clients:
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Stabilize mental health after crisis
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Integrate insights from self-reflection or breakthrough moments
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Build daily practices that support emotional well-being
This stage emphasizes consistency, structure, and the slow strengthening of inner balance.
Destruction: Letting Go for Transformation
Destruction, while often feared, is essential for transformation. In therapy, this might involve:
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Releasing old patterns, identities, or relationships that no longer serve
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Challenging limiting beliefs or internalized shame
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Facing and grieving painful experiences to make room for healing​
This process is purposeful, choosing what to give up to allow space for new growth to emerge.
A Holistic Therapeutic Journey
When we start thinking about our journey through life as cyclical, including creating, maintaining, and dissolving, it can give us more space to think about how our life is unfolding, and be more intentional about what we want to create, and let go. Understanding this cycle of life also invites us to be compassionate towards our healing path.
Integrating the ancient wisdom of Veda with a modern understanding of brain science and psychotherapy creates opportunities for growth and healing that is both grounded and expansive.