Application of the Four Bases of Power to Enhance Physical, Mental Health and Cooperation in Contemporary Thai Society

Abstract

This article aims to study the application of the Four Bases of Iddhipati to enhance physical and mental health and cooperation in contemporary Thai society. It analyzes the application of the four bases of Buddhism, namely, Iddhipati, consisting of Chanda, Viriya, Citta, and Vimangsa, to promote physical well-being, mental well-being, and cooperation at the individual and social levels in the current context of Thai society amidst rapid economic, social, and cultural changes. The application of these principles can serve as an effective tool for developing quality of life and relationships in society, especially in an era where people are facing stress, non-communicable diseases, and a lack of collective power in social development.

The analysis results show that the four bases of Iddhipati are consistent with the approach to promoting health in a holistic dimension, where “Chanda” helps create internal motivation for individuals to care about taking care of their physical and mental health, “Viriya” promotes perseverance in changing health behaviors, “Chitta” promotes concentration, mindfulness, and attention to daily actions, while “Vimangsa” helps individuals to know how to evaluate and improve their behaviors rationally. In addition, the application of the four bases of Iddhipati at the group and organizational levels also helps to enhance cooperation, responsibility, and ethics in living together in society. The integration of these principles should be promoted. In the process of learning, working and living together in the daily life of Thai people more concretely.