AYUSH- ANCIENT MECHANISM OF WELL-BEING WITH POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY (HOMEOPATHY MANAGEMENT OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE ALONG WITH APPLICATION OF ACT)

Abstract

Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder first documented by Dr. James Parkinson in the year 1817 in his "An Essay on the Shaking Palsy". It has a higher prevalence in males and lower representation in females. The aims and objectives of the study are to understand the prevalence, etiology, literature review, and staging of Parkinson's disease; to assess the effectiveness of homeopathic medicines and repertorization in its treatment; to evaluate various assessment tools including the Life Satisfaction Questionnaire, Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale, Activities-Specific Balance Confidence Scale, and PDQ-39; to examine the application of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in addressing willingness, avoidance, struggle, and suffering to set short- and long-term goals for a more meaningful life; to explore the 6 pillars of Parkinson's disease including attitude and relationships, stress reduction, sleep, exercise, character traits, and nutrition; and to understand the role of AYUSH, where "H" stands for Homeopathy. Homeopathy provides a holistic approach to well-being that encompasses physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions through constitutional and individualized treatment. Three test subjects were assessed through homeopathic case taking, repertorization, and various conventional and psychological assessment tools to implement a more scientific approach to well-being through the AYUSH system of medicine, along with ACT to address willingness, avoidance, struggle, and suffering to set short- and long-term goals. Mental well-being is central to holistic medicine, thus exploring the potential of the homeopathic system under the AYUSH framework amid rapidly increasing stressful, dissatisfied life situations. Pre- and post-assessment scores using these tools suggested average improvements in individuals after ACT and homeopathic medicines. The study demonstrates the dynamicity of homeopathy along with ACT, thus providing mindfulness and positive psychology as a whole, building strength, hope, and resourcefulness.