Mindful Leadership for the Anthropocene: Yogic Values in Environmental Governance

Deepak

Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science, NIILM University, Kaithal, Haryana

Orcid id: 0009-0008-8186-2206

Abstract

This study explores the transformative role of yogic principles in fostering mindful leadership for effective environmental governance in the Anthropocene epoch. The Anthropocene, marked by human-induced environmental changes, necessitates a paradigm shift in leadership approaches. Drawing on yogic values such as ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truthfulness), and aparigraha (non-possessiveness), the research examines how mindfulness practices influence environmental policies and leadership behavior. A mixed-methods approach combining surveys, interviews, and case studies of environmentally conscious organizations reveals that integrating yogic principles enhances sustainability, empathy, and long-term ecological responsibility. The paper concludes with recommendations for embedding yogic mindfulness into leadership training and environmental governance frameworks.

Keywords:- Mindful Leadership, Yogic Values, Environmental Governance, Sustainability, Anthropocene

Impact Statement

The Anthropocene epoch, marked by unprecedented human influence on Earth’s ecosystems, demands a transformative shift in leadership paradigms. This research on Mindful Leadership for the Anthropocene: Yogic Values in Environmental Governance addresses the urgent need to embed ethical, conscious, and holistic decision-making into environmental governance structures. By integrating yogic principles such as ahimsa (non-violence), santosha (contentment), aparigraha (non-possessiveness), and dharma (duty), the study presents a sustainable and spiritually grounded alternative to conventional leadership models rooted in exploitation and short-term gains.

The impact of this work is both theoretical and practical. Theoretically, it advances interdisciplinary dialogue by bridging ancient Indian philosophy with contemporary environmental policy discourse. Practically, it offers a values-based leadership model that can be incorporated into institutional training, public policymaking, and community-led ecological stewardship programs. The research contributes to the growing body of literature advocating for inner transformation as a prerequisite to outer ecological change. It empowers leaders to approach governance with empathy, equanimity, and a deep sense of planetary responsibility.

 

This study can influence educational curricula, sustainability frameworks, and international environmental negotiations by fostering a leadership culture that prioritizes ecological balance, intergenerational justice, and inner wellbeing. In an era marked by climate crises, biodiversity loss, and ecological degradation, mindful leadership rooted in yogic values emerges as a vital paradigm for catalyzing systemic environmental change.

About Author

Dr Deepak is working as Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science, NIILM University Kaithal Haryana, with extensive experience in teaching, and research. His areas of interest are cloud computing, IoT, and Machine Learning. He has participated in and presented research articles at various National and International conferences.

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