Vedic Pedagogical Approaches to Address Youth Challenges in Nepal

Abstract

As a teacher I figured out number of problems with school youths. Are there solutions of these problems in the Vedic literatures? This curiosity led me to undertake this study targeting the 13–24 years' youths. The present study aims to explore their problems under Taapatraya framework i.e. Aadhibhautic (physical), Aadhidaiwic (mental) and Aadhyaatmic (spiritual) and find out the pedagogical solutions under mantra, stotra, satsang (counseling) and rituals along with music and sound therapy. The progression moves from identification to exploration to application to institutionalization from diagnosis through prescription to implementation. A qualitative exploratory research design was adopted, in which I used observation, interviews, focus group discussions, and narrative-based case studies. Youth problems in Nepal were interpreted in relation to broader regional and global contexts through document analysis of Vedic texts and contemporary research literature. The study also identified practical applications of Vedic pedagogies including sound therapy (mantra, music, and satsang), yajna (homa) therapy, integrated Aayurvedic and yogic interventions, mudraa therapy, and school-based mindfulness practices. Findings indicate that Vedic pedagogical practices stimulate physiological responses such as increased Gamma-Amino Butyric Acid (GABA) and melatonin, which reduce stress hormones like cortisol, resulting in improved emotional stability, reduced anxiety and depression. Interpretation of data is aligned with sociological, psychological, inter-generational, and youth representation theories. The research proposes a Nature-Based Education System (NBES) and emphasizes the need for teacher re-orientation and curriculum integration to harmonize Vedic wisdom with modern education. NBES is the central original contribution of this dissertation. It is iii not a replacement for modern education but an integration. These six components are philosophical foundation, therapeutic practices, pedagogy and mentor ship, experiential and nature activities, community engagement and selfless service (seva ) and assessment and policy integration. The study concludes that Vedic approaches offer sustainable and culturally grounded pathways to address contemporary youth challenges. Rather than addressing symptoms alone, it creates supportive environments for genuine, sustainable youth well-being grounded in Nepal‘s cultural context.