RELEVANCE OF YOGA IN MODERN TIMES MALLIKA PATTABHIRAMAN ADVANCE DIPLOMA COURSE IN YOGA 2012-2013
CONTENTS
Acknowledgement 1. Yoga a perfect Indian Science a)
Orthodox Philosophy
b)
Aim of Yoga
c)
Patanjali Yoga Sutras
d)
Ashtanga Yoga
e)
Other forms of yoga
2. Modern Times and its features a)
Complexities of Modern Life
b)
Stress and tension in Modern Times
c) Effects of Stress and Tension on Mind and Body
3. Relevance of Yoga in Modern Times a) Physical and Mental Health b) Social Health and Spiritual Health c) Pure thoughts and Positive Lifestyle d) Tolerance for all nations, religions and cultures
4. Personal Experiences
Bibliography
Page No
ACKNOWLEDGMENTs I want to express my deepest gratitude and appreciation for Dr. Ganesh Rao and Dr.Suryaprabha Sashidharan for their valuable guidance, teachings and insights in understanding the complex and profound subject of Yoga. I would also like to thank all the teachers who systematically taught each topic in detail, and instilled the ancient wisdom in a clear and lucid manner.
Yoga a perfect Indian Science
Yoga is one of the oldest and one of the most perfect sciences of the world originated from India, which is very useful for both attaining and maintaining the physical, mental and moral health. Yogic science is based mainly on the principles of Physiology and Physics. Yoga was started with the development of civilization. According to one of the classical texts of yoga known as Hathayoga pradipika, pradipika, Lord Shiva is Shiva is the first teacher of yoga, where as Bhagavad-Gita tells Lord Krishna is Krishna is the first teacher of yoga.There are six schools of Indian philosophy which are considered ‘ astika’ astika’ , that is, that consider the Vedas a reliable source of knowledge of reality. These schools accept the idea that knowledge can be transmitted from a higher authority, and therefore, they base their philosophical systems on the scriptures Some historical researchers have proved that yoga was present during the time of Vedas. Vedas. Yoga in the sense of spiritual means means and in this sense it is inseparable associated with the Indian philosophical tradition, hence it is known as ‘Yoga Darshana’ . Vedas are the primeval source of Yoga. After the period of Vedas, a great sage Maharshi Patanjali systematized yoga, its meaning and its related knowledge through the „Yog „Yog Sutras’ . Hence specifically, yoga is one of the six „astika’ astika’ (orthodox) (orthodox) schools of Hindu philosophy. One of the most detailed and thorough expositions on the subject are the „Yoga sutras of Patanjali‟ Patanjali‟. After the Patanjali, Patanjali, many sages contributed greatly to the field through their practices and literatures. Various traditions of yoga are found in other religions like Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism.
According to the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali , the ultimate aim of Yoga is to reach "Kaivalya "Kaivalya"" (emancipation or ultimate freedom). This is the experience of one's innermost being or "soul" (the Purusa). Purusa). Then one becomes free of chains of cause and effect (Karma (Karma)) which tie oneself to continual reincarnation. In Kaivalya Kaivalya one is said to exist in peace and tranquillity, having attained absolute knowledge of the difference between the spiritual which is timeless, unchanging and free of sorrows, and the material which which is not.
This is is considered desirable as life is
analysed as ultimately full of sorrows and pain, even pleasure and joy leave pain and loss when they have gone as nothing in the material world is permanent. The word „Yoga‟ Yoga‟ literally means „union‟, „union‟, i.e. spiritual union of the individual soul with the Universal soul and is used in this sense in the Vedanta. The Gita defines Yoga Yoga as the state state than which there is is nothing higher or worth realizing and firmly rooted in which a person is never shaken even by the greatest pain; that state free from all pain and misery is Yoga. Yoga is therefore a spiritual quest and effort to attain perfection through control of the body, senses and mind, and through right knowledge. However, along the path of yoga, the sadhaka or sadhaka or the aspirant also gains health, happiness, tranquillity and knowledge which are indicators of progress and an encouragement to continue the practice. Yoga is mental discipline based on the restraint of conscious states of mind, and concedes the use of asanas asanas or postures and breathing exercises are aids to contemplation. The final goal of Patanjali‟s Yoga is freedom from bondage to the alluring forms of matter.
The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali is a milestone in the history of Yoga. It is a set of 195 aphorisms (sutras) which are as relevant for Yoga philosophy and practice today even more than as it was when it was written. The Yoga sutras are divided into four chapters ( padas). padas). The first is
called
Samadhipada Samadhipada which
deals
with
nature
and
aim
of
concentration. The second Sadhanapada, Sadhanapada, explains the means to realize this end. The third, Vibhutipada, Vibhutipada, deals with the supra-normal powers which can be acquired through Yoga. The fourth, Kaivalyapada, Kaivalyapada, describes the nature of liberation and the reality of the transcendental self.
Sage Patanjali has discussed the essential aspects of this
profound philosophy and techniques of Yoga. His composition is in principle a systematic treatise, defining the most important elements of yoga theory and practise. i) Samadhipada: It deals with the general nature of yoga and its technique. It consists of 51 sutras. It instructs on the purpose of yoga i.e. Kaivalya or self-realisation attained through discrimination between purusha and prakriti . The sutras enumerate the panchachittavrittis, panchachittavrittis, which are pramana (right knowledge), knowledge), Viparyaya (wrong knowledge), knowledge), Vikalpa (imagination/fancy), Nidra (sleep) and Smiriti (memory). Sage Patanjali further emphasises on two essential qualities necessary for success in yoga namely Vairagya (detachment), and Abhyaasa (constant practice). This pada This pada focuses focuses on Samadhi, which is the last step in Ashtangayoga, and explains different kinds of super conscious awareness and the means to attain the same. Explanation on Ishwara, Ishwara, who is untouched by afflictions, actions and their fruits, is also given. The concept of Pranava Aum is explained, which denotes Ishwara, Ishwara, and meditating upon which
helps in reaching the pure consciousness. Various obstacles, which hinder the spiritual path and the methods to overcome them in order to achieve harmony, are elaborated. ii) Sadhanapada: Sadhanapada: This chapter composed of 55 sutras sutras focuses on Sadhana Sadhana (practice). It emphasises on Kriyayoga, Kriyayoga, the different kleshas (obstacles) that hinder Sadhana Sadhana its various fruits. The panchakleshas include Avidya, Asmita, Raaga, Dvesha, and Abhinivesha. This pada presents a methodology to gradually remove these kleshas by emphasising on Kriyayoga (Tapa, Kriyayoga (Tapa, Swadhyaya and Ishwarapranidhana). Kleshas Kleshas lead to Karma and vice versa giving rise to suffering. Sadhanapada also instructs about the Ashtangayoga to remove impurities of the chitta. chitta. iii) Vibhutipada: This Vibhutipada: This chapter on psychic powers consists of 56 verses. It explains the last three limbs in Ashtangayoga namely Dharana, Dhyana, Dhyana, and Samadhi. Samayama is the amalgamation of these three steps.
The
mastery
consciousness).
on
Samayama
leads
to
Prajna Prajna (higher
This chapter explains states of Parinamas Parinamas (mental
transformations), which takes place in different degrees at different points of time. iv) Kaivalyapada: Kaivalyapada: This chapter is composed of 34 verses on solitariness, onlyness, detachment. The chapter deals with the very aim of yoga i.e. Kaivalyaprapti or self-realisation and the means to attain the same.
Sage Patajali advocates the eight limbs “ Ashtanga yoga ” (Chapter II sutra
28 and 29).
By faithful and intense practice of
Ashtanga Yoga, the impurities of the mind are washed away progressively, and that the mind becomes sensitive and pure by this, so that its capacity for atmadarshana atmadarshana is automatically restored. Ashtanga Yoga consists of the following:1 Yama meaning Yama meaning abstention
Ahimsha (abstention from violence through thought , word word or deed)
Satya (abstention from falsehood)
Asteya (abstention from stealing)
Brahmacharya (abstention from passions and lust)
Aparigraha (abstention from avarice or possessions)
2 Niyama is self culture and includes external and internal regulation
Saucha (cleanliness)
Santosha (contentment)
Tapas (austerity)
Swadhaya ( study of scriptures)
Ishvarapranidhana (devotion and surrender to God)
3 Asana Asana means steady and comfortable posture. There are various kinds of postures which help the body physically and enable it to sit for long hours and engage oneself in meditation. It disciplines the body.
4 Pranayama Pranayama means control of breath and deals with the regulation of inhalation
retention and exhalation of breath. It is beneficial to health
and highly conducive to the concentration of the mind. 5 Pratyahara means Pratyahara means control of senses and consists of withdrawing the senses from their objects as the senses have a natural tendency to go to outward objects. Checking the senses and directing towards internal goal. Pratyahara is the process of introversion. 6 Dharana Dharana is fixing the mind mind on the object of of meditation. The mind is made steadfast like the unflickering flame of a lamp. 7 Dhyana Dhyana means meditation and consists in the undisturbed flow of thought round the object of of meditation. meditation.
It is is steadfast steadfast contemplation
without any break. 8 Samadhi means transcendental consciousness.
It is the highest
means to realize the cessation of mental modifications which is the end. It is the ecstatic state in which the connection with external world is broken. The five disciplines of restraint and culture (yama and niyama), bodily postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama) and control over senses (pratyahara) are regarded as the external aids to yoga (bahiranga-sadhana). The last three disciplines dhayan, dharana and samadhi are said to be internal to yoga ( antaranga-sadhana). Through practice of the eight steps of yoga, the impurity of the mind gets erased, progressive illumination manifests until the realization of Purusha. Purusha. If the discipline explained as part of larger scheme of sadhana are properly practiced, the kleshas get further and further destroyed.
Mind gets
progressively illumined leading to perfect realization of Purusha. Adherence to virtues, practice of disciplines, steady sitting posture of
body,
regulation
of
breath,
withdrawal
of
mind,
concentration,
contemplation, attainment of oneness are the eight parts. Ashtanga Yoga is an ethical preparation for higher perfection and realization. Yama develops tremendous will will power. Mental turbulences are controlled and one can attain mental calmness. Niyama is cultivation of good habits to improve the quality of mind and makes the mind stronger. It is total attitude training. Practice of asanas and pranayam sharpens the senses and leads to focused mind and brings about awareness in all spheres. Yoga postures gives control over body and bodily prepares for higher states. Pranayama i.e. proper breath regulation and control imbalances are corrected and keeps Vatta, Pitta and kapha in balance and blood circulation in in order. The internal ethical preparations bring about the state of sthirata or discipline. Prayahara leads to detachment by withdrawing senses and abstaining from urges, obsessions, desires desires attachments etc.
Dharana by fixing mind mind on on an
object of meditation like tip of nose, centre of heart or tip of tongue leads to meditative kind of state and one achieves mental control. Dhayana co-exists with with dharana leading to serenity and calmness. calmness. Samadhi is total isolation & detachment Savikalpa Samadhi is conscious Samadhi some attachment and clinging is present. It is in between stage to Samadhi. It is a tranformatory stage and changes takes placeand the changes can be deviating. At this stage viveka khyati or discriminatory knowledge is necessary during the stage of transformation. The need of Yoga angas is to remove the impurities of the mind and also further remove the obstacles in the way of attaining the highest perfection of discriminative knowledge ((Viveka Viveka Khyati ) the supreme ethical task of yoga is in uprooting of avidya or ignorance and this is accomplished by discriminatory knowledge. knowledge. Self assessment assessment and introspection occurs
and knowledge grows. Nirvikalpa Samadhi is unconscious Samadhi. In Nirvikalpa Samadhi there is no mind there is only infinite peace and bliss. Ashtanga Yoga provides provides a wholesome wholesome approach to life.
Hatha Yoga is that branch of Yoga philosophy which deals with physical body, its care, its well being, its health, its strength and all that tends to keep it in in its natural and normal state of health. The syllable syllable „HA‟ means the SUN and „THA‟ means the MOON.
The two neural
currents or Nadis within the human body. When the body and mind are completely purified, the solar and lunar currents merge into each other. Body is the temple of the spirit.
Swami Swatmarama who wrote the
mian text of HATHA YOGA PRADYAPIKA propounded propounded Chaturanga Yoga Yoga comprising of Asans, Mudras and Bandhas, Pranayam and Nadaanusandhan. Gheranda Samhita Samhita written by Sage Gheranda has more than 100 yogic practices, known as Saptanga Yoga comprising of Kriya shodhan, mudras and bandhas, pratyahara, pranayama, dhayan and Samadhi. Samadhi. These angas bring about specific results purification, strength, stability, composure, lightness, direct perception and absolute isolation. Hatha Yoga is indispensable for increasing the efficiency of sensory organs. Hatha Yoga believes that body mind and energy are imbalanced and lopsided only when balance is established by regular practice the consciousness can rise. Practice of Hata Yoga brings about Sthairyam, Arogyam Sthairyam, Arogyam and Laghavam Laghavam.. Hatha Yoga is complementary to Rajyoga. It is to keep the body and Mind healthy. Hatha Yoga is an integral part of ASHTANGA YOGA
Karma Yoga is a path of right action. This path is attractive to people who are habitually very active. One loses his identity while working, only selfless work remains. This state is complex to achieve. Generally some rewards or incentives or outcome follows the work and one is attached to this reward or incentive. The basic concepts of Karma Yoga are egolessness, renunciation, duty and equanimity. Karma Yoga teaches the path of selfless action as a means to experience Divinity. Nonattachment with the work and becoming the perfect instrument of the super consciousness in this manifested universe is the ultimate aim of Karma Yoga. In the initial stages of Karma Yoga, individual possesses strong sense of ego and consciously or unconsciously he is attached to the fruits of his efforts or at least praise or recognition but by continuous involvement in the work and change in mental attitude, one can surely disassociate himself from the ego and his own personality. In this state the work becomes worship to the God, it becomes spiritual, also the individual becomes expert, skilled and Yogi. He achieves stability of mind in all conditions, he is not disturbed or excited or happy in any of the situations. He becomes divine and his actions represent God‟s will. The essence of Karma Yoga as extracted from 'Bhagvad Gita' says: The world confined in its own activity except when actions are performed as worship of God. Therefore one must perform every action sacramentally and be free of attachments to the results. Karma yoga is Ishvarapranidhana , sarva karya arpanam karmaphala sanyas.
Jnana Yoga or the path of rational inquiry is for people of rational temperament to whom reason appeals more than faith. Jnana Yoga is the process of converting intellectual knowledge into practical wisdom. It is a discovery of human dharma in relation to nature and the universe. Jnana Yoga is described by tradition as a means to obtain the highest meditative state and inner knowledge.
Jnana literally means 'knowledge', but in the context of yoga it means the process of meditative awareness which leads to illuminative wisdom. It is not a method by which we try to find rational answers to eternal questions, it is a part of meditation leading to self enquiry and self-realisation. Some of the components of Jnana Yoga are : 1. Not believing but realising 2. Self-awareness leading to self-analysis 3. Experiencing knowledge 4. Realising the personal nature 5. Developing intuitive wisdom 6. Experiencing inner unity
Laya Yoga helps alter one's normal awareness of self by focusing on hearing an internal, mystic sound. The mind will become steady and absorbed in the sound on which it focuses. There are five main energy centres in the spine and two in the head. The laya yoga one knows exactly how to locate these centres through the guidance of a teacher.
When these centres are found, they function like doorways to different realms of higher consciousness. Through laya yoga meditation, for example, one can sense the heart centre which is located inside the spine, directly back of the heart. From this point the awareness is expanded and one can enter into a realm of great, sky blue light (sometimes other colours as well) and discover light. Through laya yoga meditation in the heart centre one can overcome ego and become able to deal with fears and worries because of the tremendous strength and insight one gains from the "heart expansion." The five centres correspond roughly to the main areas of the spine. One is located in the area of the tailbone. The second centre is in the area of the sacrum. The third is located in the spinal cord, back of the navel. Then the heart centre. The throat centre is found inside the spine at the base of the neck, directly behind the collar button. The first head centre is the point half an inch above where eyebrows meet on the forehead it‟s called the third eye. The second head centre is at the crown of the head. This area is considered the main source of spiritual light and energy which is expressed throughout the body. Most people live on only three levels of consciousness the material, sensual, and egoistic without the awareness of thee seven centres which when opened bring higher consciousness. Laya Yoga is dissolution of mind. mind. There is total chitta vritti nirodah in Laya Laya Yoga.
Bhakti Yoga is is known as the path of love love and devotion. devotion. This path is meant primarily for people who are temprementally emotional and respond easily to love and affection. It is path of complete self surrender
and dedication, all of ones resources to attain the Ultimate Reality. Swami Vivekananda has defined Bhakti Yoga as “ a real genuine search for Lord – – a search – – beginning, beginning, continuing and ending in Love.” In Bhakti Yoga, the offering or surrendering is not just a flower or fruit, but all of Oneself.
In the Bhagavat Gita, Chapter VII, Verse 16, explains that there are four types of men who worship the Lord : 1) Man in distress, 2) Man seeking Knowledge, 3) Man seeking wealth, 4) Man imbued with wisdom. Although the above 4 types are devoted to one and same Lord, the highest is the realized one who has attained the state of equanimity and equilibrium. In the Bhagavat Gita, Chapter XII, Shloka 2, Lord Krishna explains to Arjuna, that those who are devoted solely to Him, to worship Him alone are superior devotees. Such devotees have three positive qualities : 1) Full dedication(concentration of mind) 2) Complete dedication(surrender of their whole lives), 3) Worship with complete and total faith. One who fully devotes his life to worshipping and concentrating on any aspect of manifestation with unshaken faith can attain perfection. Lord Krishna in Bhagavat Gita explains in Chapter XII, Verse 6,7 & 8 that: 1) The Lord is single and the highest goal of life, contemplate and meditate only upon the one truth, without a second, 2) Concentration of mind should not be on any object other than the Lord, 3) Entire sadhana and worship is to be directed to the Lord alone, 4) All faculties of mind including Buddhi should be directed towards the Lord alone, 5) Dedicate all the actions and their fruits to the Lord alone, 6) Be a Yogi;
Identification with ones essential nature instead of the world. When the aspirant realises his essential nature and performs his duties skilfully
with non attachment, he is victorious and free, liberated. He is free from cycle of Birth and Death. Bhakti leads one beyond pain and pleasure. Pain and pleasure lose their value, for one has surrendered everything. There is no want, no expectation, no attachment to any particular thing or person. He has no pride and regards misery and pleasure alike. In short one may say the path of Bhakti Yoga involves study of scriptures, constant Japa and complete dedication and self surrender. Also, Vairagya (non attachment) while performing ones duties, always remembering the Lord with a feeling of self surrender are the key notes to this path.
Redemption comes only when there is conjunction of actions with knowledge, selfless action or devotion, i.e. Jnanayoga, Karmayoga and Bhaktiyoga while their paths are different their goal is same namely the union of self with GOD.
Raja Yoga or the path of psychic control is for aspirants who are of meditative temperament with a natural yearning to completely master their minds. Raja yoga puts maximum emphasis on meditation. meditation. Raja Yoga is a comprehensive method that emphasizes meditation, while encompassing the whole of Yoga. It directly deals with the encountering and transcending thoughts of the mind. Raja yoga is also called astanga yoga, or "the eight-fold path," because its eight steps create an orderly process of self- transformation beginning on the level of the physical body, and eventually involving the subtler levels of life. The eight steps are yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana, and samadhi.
pratyahara
EXTERNAL PRACTICES
The first four steps--yama, niyama, asana, and pranayama, comprises portions of hatha yoga, which is preparatory to the last four stages of raja yoga. yoga.
Yama and niyama niyama are ten commitments commitments of attitude and
behaviour. One set of disciplines (niyama) is meant to improve the human personality and the other (yama) is meant to guide our relationships and interactions with society. Thus yoga is an education for both internal and external growth. Asanas are meditative postures and postures that ensure physical well-being. A stable meditative posture helps to create a serene breath and calm mind. The fourth step of raja yoga is pranayama. Prana is the vital energy that sustains body and mind. The gross manifestation of prana is the breath, so pranayama is also called the "science of breath." These exercises lead to calming and concentration of the mind. INTERNAL PRACTICES
The four steps of yoga prepare the aspirant for the four internal practices of raja yoga. These internal practices are pratyahara, dharana, dhyana, and samadhi. The fifth step of raja yoga is pratyahara or withdrawal and control of the senses. The human mind becomes involved with the events, experiences, and objects of the external world through the five senses of sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell. The mind constantly gathers sensations from the external world through these senses and the mind reacts to them. To attain inner calmness, one has to develop the ability to voluntarily remove the distractions of the world outside. This is not a
physical process but a voluntary, mental process of letting go of involvement with external sensations. Sensory impressions distract the mind when one wants it to become aware of serenity within. Thus, it is useful to learn dharana, or concentration, the sixth step in raja yoga. In concentration, the scattered power of the mind is coordinated and focused on an object of concentration through continued voluntary attention. This voluntary attention uses a conscious effort of the will, and it is developed through consistent practice. Through concentration, a scattered, weak mind is focused and made more powerful. The seventh step in raja yoga is dhyana, or meditation. Meditation is the result of continued, unbroken concentration. Concentration makes the mind one-pointed, calm, and serene. Meditation then expands the one-pointed mind to the superconscious state. Meditation is the uninterrupted flow of the mind toward one object or concept. When the mind expands beyond conscious and subconscious levels and assumes this superconscious flow, then intuitive knowledge dawns. All the methods of yoga prepare us to eventually reach this stage of meditation and thus attain peace, perfection, and tranquility. Meditation can be very helpful in eliminating many physical and psychological problems. A significant amount of the disease one experiences is actually either directly or indirectly the result of conflicts, repression, or emotional distress arising in the conscious or unconscious mind. Meditation helps to become aware of these conflicts and to resolve them, establishing tranquility and peace. In this way, meditation becomes a powerful resource for facing the challenges of daily life. Meditation helps to overcome limitations; it helps to become aware of
the subtler and more positive powers within. In gaining this awareness, one becomes creative and dynamic. Abilities such as intuition, which many consider unusual or rare, are actually within the potential of all human beings who meditate. Such gifts are available to those who make contact with the deeper aspects within themselves. Prolonged and intense meditation leads to the last step of raja yoga -the state of samadhi, the superconscious state. In this state there is union with the higher Self and one transcends all imperfections and limitations. The state of samadhi is the fourth state of consciousness, which transcends the three normal states of waking, dreaming, and dreamless sleep. A person who who is established established in samadhi lives his or her whole life as a spontaneous expression of the unhindered flow of supreme consciousness. When one transforms oneself and experiences serenity,
peace,
and
freedom.
This
awareness
of
the
infinite
consciousness is the practical and real goal of yoga. It involves all three dimensions of human interaction -- physical, mental, and spiritual. Through this path, one achieves balance and harmony of all three levels and then attain full realization of the Self. Raja yoga is ideally suited to the modern world, in which scientific skepticism is very prominent
Mantra or Japa is a discipline complementary to meditation. Japa is a technique that enables one to gain control over the mind, purify it, master concentration, and eventually have God-vision. It consists of chanting holy name of God or a payer or OM the pranava mantra over and over again. again. A spiritual aspirant can realize God by recitation of of a mantra. Japa is encouraged by Jnanayoga, Karmayoga and Bhaktiyoga
According to the science of tantra, male and female are two principles of the universe called Shiva and Shakti. These two principles of the universe universe exists within each individual. There are three principle schools of of tantra: Kaula, Mishra and Samaya.
The Kaulas, or left
handed tantrists, worship Shakti, and their way of worship involves external rituals, including sexual sexual practices. They meditate meditate on the latent power within (Kundalini) and awaken it at at muladhara muladhara chakra.
It is is
designed to awaken the kundalini energy in the body and addressing relationships and sexuality through rituals. It focuses on dynamic aspect of divinity called Shakti. All these forms of yoga are implicitly implicitly or explicitly explicitly present in Patanjali Yoga.
In Modern times the sway of materialism materialism is at its peak. Modern life is much more complex than life that existed in olden times. Today there is severe space crunch in cities due to rise in population and the infrastructure cannot cope up with the influx of people coming to cities in search of livelihood and better lifestyle, thereby increasing the overcrowding and creating stress due to lack of space. Modern day lifestyle is superficial. There is more emphasis on form and packaging and not on the content and the quality.
Human relations and
relationships and interests are superficial and lack in depth and passion. Money pays a very vital role in all the spheres of modern life. Money is the arbitrator of everything and is given utmost importance in all walks of of life. There is complete degeneration of morality and values. Even festivals, festivities and religious ceremonies there is only show of
pomp and splendour. Lack of spirituality can be sensed in in these modern times. The so called progress made by modern man has distanced himself from Mother Nature. Mother Nature has been used and abused by reclaiming land, destroying mangroves and indulging in over use of chemical fertilizers for harvesting more crops.
Heavy increase in
vehicular traffic gives rise to air pollution and noise pollution. Water pollution and food adulteration are giving rise to respiratory diseases and ill health. Water is a natural resource and elixir of life but increased industrialization
and
release
of
pollutants
in
lakes
and
rivers
contaminates water making it unusable and creates scarcity. Plastic and other non bio-degradable waste destroys the ecological ecological balance. It has been proven that global warming is caused by human activities such as burning of fossil fuels and deforestation .Effects of global warming are extreme weather events like heat waves, draughts, heavy rainfall, floods ,species extinction and decreasing crop yields yields etc.
People living living in cities are dictated by time. Life revolves revolves in the daily commute from home to work place and work place to home. The daily rigmarole creates a lot of stress and gives rise to psychosomatic ailments. Life is very fast paced and there is hardly any leisure time.
Basic human nature yearns for more and more and is
never satisfied or content with with what one has. Human mind mind is always flooded with thoughts, planning, worrying about the future or ruminating about the past. past.
Focus of man of modern times is on acquisition i.e. i.e.
properties, cars etc. So much of acquisitions, then preserving the
possessions, then worrying about losing them creates lot of stress. Man today finds himself in a very unique situation to respond and tackle a variety of complex situations day in and day out for which he finds even his multidimensional personality in adequate. In metro cities we see people racing around with hi tech gadgets with juggling their their many daily chores. Life is and has only continued to speed up at times the feeling most city based people have as if they are caught up in a whirlwind and life seem to be moving out of control. When this happens, competing demands of work, home and family seem more than one can handle. The fast paced city life has increased the levels of stress and has made people more hostile to one another which contribute to increased level of violence violence and crime. Congestion in cities results in pollution and there is difficulty in commuting from one place to another. People in metro cities commute for long hours to reach their respective places of work. This hardly hardly leaves leaves them any time to have proper and wholesome food and end up eating fast food or street food at irregular hours. Constant exposure exposure to pollution and stress also cause irregularities in breathing. Due to lack of time, imbalances imbalances are created in in human relationships. People do not spend quality time with their old parents, spouses and and children. Many women women may feel stressed due to nature of their role in society. Women handle added responsibilities of home and office and failure of getting the required recognition may cause depression. Ours is a restless age -- an age where rapid changes in technology are causing a breakdown of old values and fragmenting our
personality. The result of this is tremendous psychological disturbances, stress and tension. Peace seems to be eluding us and we are constantly seeking answers. Sage Patanjali in sutra 39 of Sadhana Pada says “aparigrahaste “aparigrahaste janmakathantasambodhah” From steadfastness in non possessions, results knowledge of the cause of births. One who is not greedy is secure. His understanding of himself is complete. The desire to know the one‟s past, present and future is awakened in onself.
The yama Aparigrahara yama Aparigrahara revel hidden layers and
depths. Yoga Guru TVK Desikachar says “The more we have, the more need to take care of it. The time and energy spent on acquiring more things, protecting them and worrying about them can be spent on most basic questions of Life. What is the limit? What we should possess? For what purpose? For whom and for how long? Death comes before we have had had the time to even begin to consider these questions” One of the important klesha klesha causing disturbances is is Raaga (Attachment). When one comes in contact with pleasure it leads to attachment and one craves and wants to have more and more of it leading to Raaga. The seeds of Raaga is is Lobha Lobha (greed) and Trishna (thirst for worldly desires). desires). Raaga operates when the the guna rajas is predominant. predominant. It keeps one entangled and yearns to have more of the pleasure objects like wine, rich food, women, power etc. Swami Sukhbodhananda says “Most of us live life in the world of things- the external reality-the reality that we see, hear, smell and touch. We feel that in order to be happy, we have to possess more things, more
objects, more of of the materialistic or external world. We think our stress will be relieved; our happiness would increase, when we have the world of things.
People can have beautiful houses, be very comfortable
externally, but internally if it has thoughts they are tense, chaotic, they would find themselves comfortably uncomfortable. Yoga teaches us that the external world we see is also seen internally and therefore internally if we do not calibrate ourselves properly, if we do not tune ourselves wisely, the world of things will not yield us happiness, will not release the stress in us”.
In today‟s world of tight schedules, constant communication, and high-speed movement one often find oneself disconnected from what matters most, from what truly brings joy. Whether from an endless to-do list or a lack of time, one feels dissatisfied, unsettled, and sometimes even sad and lonely. Internal tension can manifest as anxiety, irritability, and sleeplessness or leave one feeling overwhelmed, uninspired, fatigued, and unhappy. If the mind and body are constantly on edge because of excessive stress in life, one may face serious health problems. That's because the body‟s body‟s “fight-or“fight-or-flight flight reaction” its natural alarm system is constantly on. Stress can cause headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, eating disorder, allergies, insomnia, backaches, frequent cold and fatigue to diseases such as hypertension, asthma, diabetes, heart ailments and even cancer. In fact, Sanjay Chugh, a leading Indian psychologist, says that 70 per cent to 90 per cent of adults visit primary care physicians for stress-related problems. Stress manifests as tension in the muscles of the body interferes with the
physiological functions of the body. The malfunctions of the internal organs adversely affect physical and mental health. Tension and health are mutually exclusive. To attain good health there is need to overcome overcome tension. Human body is hard-wired to react to stress in ways meant to protect one against threats from predators and other aggressors. Such threats are rare today, but that doesn't mean that life is free of stress. On the contrary, one undoubtedly face multiple demands each day, such as shouldering a huge workload, making ends meet, taking care of one‟s family, or just making it through the morning rush hour. The body treats these so-called minor hassles as threats. As a result one feel as if one is constantly under assault. But one can fight back. One must not let stress control the life. Everybody men, women, children and even babies suffer from stress. Relationship demands, chronic health problems, pressure at workplaces, traffic jams, meeting deadlines, growing-up tensions or a sudden slump in the stock market can trigger stress conditions. People react to it in their own ways. In some people, stress-induced adverse feelings and anxieties tend to persist and intensify. Learning to understand and manage stress can prevent the counter effects of stress.
Yoga is the best therapy for all ailments in modern times. By regular Yoga practice awareness goes up and there is noticeable down slide in
stress levels. Patanjali Yoga is systemized and hierarchical in nature. It is step by step progress to go higher in life. It has a holistic approach to today‟s problems. Good and sound physical and mental health is a means to go higher and it is not the end in itself. itself. Yoga is a system of values and caters caters to all the aspects in development of personality. personality. The regular practice of the first two Angas two Angas of of Ashtanga Ashtanga Yoga – Yoga – Yama Yama and Niyama will bring about about a balance in life. Yoga is all about balancing life life at work place and home, socially and personally. The practice of Yama Yama and Niyama not only renders social goodness and personal goodness which is a by product but it actually cleanses the impurities which cover the pure nature of Self. In today‟s times one cannot renounce the world and retire in Himalayas to practice Yoga and austerities. It aids individual development of body, mind and soul. It is very practical and very relevant for everyone to manage stress. 1 Yama (abstentions): Observance of yama disciplines the five organs of action
Ahimsha (abstention from violence)
Ahimsa is not merely non-killing, in its truest form it is to abstain from even the slightest harm to any living creature. Whether through deed, deed, mentally, or verbally.
Satya (abstention from lying)
The thoughts, words, and actions should agree. Speaking the truth at all times, without twisting or modifying what one has seen or heard. Being true to one's own self self is the highest form of of Satya
Asteya (abstention from theft)
To rid oneself from the yearning for material objects or gains and the attraction to gaining objects through immoral means will cease.
Brahmacharya (abstention from sex)
The purity or freedom from lust in thought, word, word, or deed. This includes
freedom
from
sexual
thoughts,
sexual
urge,
and
attraction of sex.
Aparigraha (abstention from possessions)
Freedom from covetousness and possessions beyond one's needs; Aparigraha allows one to be free from the t he fear of loss, hatred & anger towards what other's have, or attachment and disappointment when things are lost or unattainable.
A rule is to never take more than
what you need for your simple and bare living. 2 ) Niyama (observances): Five principles of Niyama controls the organs of perception
Saucha (cleanliness): maintaining maintaining clean environment, environment, home, clean body by bathing , clean mind by meditating, by eating clean freshly cooked saatvik aahar.
Santosha (contentment) : By being happy with what one has and feeling blessed. blessed. As there is is no end to desires .
Tapas (austerity) (austerity) : Burning desire for spiritual discipline.
Swadhaya ( study of scriptures) :
To study spiritual texts,
Bhagvad Gita, attend satsangs, lectures and associate oneself with the Divine, encourages positive thought process.
Ishvarapranidhana (surrender to God) :Total complete surrender to GOD. placing all the efforts made and all the work done at the feet of LORD.
The principles of Kriya Yoga envisaged in Sutra I of Chapter II (Sadhana pada) of Yoga Sutra Tapah: Swadhyaya Ishwar pranidhanani kriya yoga is a very useful aid towards self development. Self discipline, Self study & Study of Scriptures and devotion to Ishvara is Yoga of action (Karma Yoga). As materialism rules in modern times yoga addresses this issue and provides a way way of looking at life differently. It brings about a change in approach to life and one can call it a paradigm shift where in one can focus within oneself and the need to look for external gratification is diminished. Practicing Vairagya Vairagya as envisaged in the yoga sutras of patanjali helps in bringing about a transformation, not mere change which is temporary, a firm ground and foundation is created which lasts for a life time thereby enriching life. One can find serenity, solace and retain one‟s sanity in these chaotic times.
Swami Sukhbodhananda says
“external and internal is all stressed up, to live life joyfully and beautifully, change the internal climate more than external climate. To manage stress is a very skilful way of life we blame the external factors but fail to realize the internal is more responsible whether we are living in chaos or cosmos times.” times.” To manage stress is important important dimension of education we have to manage mind effectively.
One can learn to live in the present and make most of this valuable gift of life. Yogic practices are more than aptly applicable in modern times. Kriyas, Asanas Pranayama prepare the mind mind and body to deal with the stress created effectively. The philosophical philosophical aspects of yoga add true meaning to life and actually deal with the onslaught of today‟ today‟s
tiring times times which is more important than physical benefits.
Yogic
practices results in over identification of body and mind explicitly and one achieves egolessness, desirelessness implicitly. The basic problem for man in in todays world is isolation. When alone it is not necessary to be lonely. The spiritual foundation can be laid in oneself. The solitude is to enjoyed and used fully for personal growth. The main cause of all physical and mental problems are because of the disturbed mind. To clean the pond, first the inflow of dirty water has to be stopped, then the dirt has to be removed from the pond to get the desired effect. In Yoga one does not depend on outside factors or things to de stress. Yoga is self dependent and independent practice.
The physical postures
strengthen and purify the body while meditation breathing and faith in God focus the mind mind connect us with with our soul. Yoga has the capacity capacity to feed the soul on a deeper level that satisfies the longing that one has. Truly being-mind-body-spirit technique, yoga is calming and beneficial to the entire system.
According to Hindu Hindu psychology, stress producing
emotions are caused by attachment. In Vairagya Shatakam, an ancient book by Yogi Bhartri, in verse 31 beautifully expresses this idea, Says Bhartrihari: If a person be attached to physical enjoyment , he will have fear of disease, If he be attached to his social status He will be afraid of losing it. If he be attached to his wealth He will fear hostile kings who may snatch it away. If he be attached to honour He will be afraid of humiliation
If he be attached to power He will fear his enemies who may render him powerless. If he be attached to his beauty he will fear old age. If he be attached to his scholarship he will fear those who may challenge his erudition If he be attached to his good reputation he will fear the wicked who may defame him. If he be attached to his body he will be afraid of death. All the things of the world pertaining to man are fraught with fear Renunciation of attachment alone causes fearlessness
a) Better physical physical health health through Ahara (food) b) Better emotional health through Vihar (recreation) c) Better mental health health through Achar (routine) d) Better intellectual health through Vichaar (thought patterns)
AHARA (Food)
“ Annam Annam Brahma” (Food is Brahman). In yoga, food is equated with God. While eating mind should attend to the way food is being chewed, the subtle taste of different food items, and the way it goes down from the
oesophagus to the stomach. When food is eaten with this one pointed ness, the assimilation and absorption of food is at its best. Most physical ailments are caused due to unhealthy eating habits. Moderation is the key word. Eat food as a duty, and eat only as much as will make one hungry after four hours. The stomach should be half filled with food, and one fourth with water, the remaining one fourth should be left empty for proper movement of food and for formation of gases. Discipline and regularity regarding food must be maintained. Food is categorised into Rajhasik, Sattavik and Tamasik. Sattavik Ahar is recommended for yoga, as it is pure, light, and energy giving. Seasonal vegetables and fruits, non-refined flour, non-refined oil, non-refined sugar are Sattavik in nature, and very important from yoga and health point of view. Bio rhythm of the body should be maintained. According to traditions, one must eat keeping in mind waxing and waning of the moon. One must eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a pauper.
VIHARA (WALKING) VIHARA (WALKING)
Walking works as a natural treatment to relieve depression. It gives us time to think, help to clear the mind, elevates overall mood, and sense of wellbeing. A brisk walk on empty stomach in the morning, not only improves the metabolism, but also improves the state of mind. After a meal, a slow walk at least 100 steps is recommended. Relaxation: It Relaxation: It is an art, and contributes to a well-balanced personality. It helps correct the faulty pathway of psychological stress. Good sleep is needed for the body, for emotions and for the nervous system. Stress and tension leads to frizzy thought processes, emotions and feelings take over and one loses one‟s mental balance. Very often people seek relaxation from external stimuli like smoking, drinking, gambling and
many other vices. However, yoga believes in self-reliance and the art of conscious relaxation like Nishpandabhava, Shavasan, Makarasan, Dhradasan. Recreation: One should have an activity that rejuvenates the body and mind. Ultimately through these activities, one has to develop an attitude of taking things happily and joyfully. Hobbies release pent up emotions, and recharge the mind. On the contrary, entertainment like watching, TV, movies, partying etc. strains the senses and tires the mind.
ACHAR (ROUTINES)
A way of life. Once we have decided on our routine, they have to be carried out regularly and sincerely. One not only sets the goal, but having set the goal one must act on it not only once or twice but always. Once action is started, it gains momentum and continues for a long time, and results naturally occur. Positive tendencies have to be constantly repeated. Sporadic actions of good nature are not enough as long as one lives one has to go on cultivating these good tendencies. For example, the sun, the secret of its freedom lies in its regularity. Moderation and regulation in life also help to reinforce our routines. Routines should not be performed in mere mechanical way. We must bring in total attention and sincerity even in the ordinary things we do.
VICHARA (DISICIPLING THOUGHTS)
The great English poet John Milton said: “The mind in its own place can make heaven of hell and hell of a heaven.” If we can learn to handle our thoughts, we can reach great heights. Looking at things from a larger perspective can help in clear thinking. We must develop spectator attitude. During our interaction with the world, it is better to
function like a spectator to a play. We just watch and observe, we do not lose our balance. In this approach we can find a way out of difficulties and can easily resolve them. Pratipaksha Bhavanam is a practice of being aware, being a witness to positive and negative thoughts/action controlling the mind and gradually guiding it to check (badane) the vitarka(negativity) with positive thoughts and act in accordance with our goals or desires. Vichara shuddi is pratipaksha bhavana, bhavana is a state of mind. Vitarka badane is the result of pratipaksha bhavana. Pratipaksha bhavanam should fill the mind all the time then mind will become amalam (without malam/dirt) and will become clear and pure. Chittasya amalam happens only when one established onself through regular practice of yama and niyama. Yama and Niyamas have have to be be interwoven in life. Ashudhhishaya or removal of impurities of body and mind gives sound health and sound mind. Some thinking and contemplation can help to develop this approach.
It is very true that we have multiplicity in all world religions. There are so many separate, slightly different and very different streams. Pluralism here is diversity. Just as disagreements exists within the members belonging to a family, in the same way there are differences, controversies between various religious groups. The differences should be resolved by dialogue, give and take and peaceful disagreement. In the name of religion people of different countries and communities are waging a war amongst themselves. The solution for strife in modern times lies lies in Patanjali‟s Yoga sutra I.33 “through cultivation of friendship compassion, joy, and forbearance respectively towards the happy, the miserable, the virtuous virtuous and the wicked. wicked. The mind becomes purified”. In
"Like the bee gathering honey from the different flowers, the wise person accepts the essence of the different scriptures and sees only the good in all religions" Mahatma Gandhi
life one meets four kinds of events. They are pleasurable, miserable miserable virtuous and sinful. One often fails to have the right attitude towards these situations.
This creates conflicts. 1. 1. Maitri (friendship) : Most
problems begin due to unfriendly attitude towards other fellow beings, friendliness with the happy is to be cultivated. 2. 2. Karuna (compassion) Compassion towards the suffering. Sympathetic attitude towards the sufferings of others. 3. Mudita 3. Mudita : Its feeling of joy in doing virtuous deeds, benevolent , social service etc. . One should cultivate the habit of of being happy in other happiness without the feeling of jealously, displeasure and other negative feelings. The happiness of others becomes the joy of life. 4. Upeksha (indifference): Indifference towards others vices.
By
cultivating friendliness towards all beings who are happy, compassion towards the unhappy, joy towards the meritorious and forbearance towards the wicked one becomes serene and one pointed and attains a state of steadiness. This would would help in minimizing minimizing the animosity and attain tolerance towards one and all.
There is only one highest reality and many teachers
All human human arise from one and the same source
All countries, religions and institutions arise from that
There are many books of wisdom wisdom from many ages
Thinking that there is only only one way way comes from ignorance ignorance
Goal of life is gound within and not in institutions institutions
Wisdom , joy and freedom come from inner stillness
Love all as we are all waves of one ocean
Personal experiences: experiences: how yoga helped me My tryst with Yoga began with reading books. I was leading a fast paced life, with all the trails and tribulations of a typical working mother of two daughters. Mine was not a nine to five job, and at times I had to put in late hours depending on my posting. I had to undergo hysterectomy at the age of 42 due to multiple fibroids. Thus began the down slide of both my physical and mental health. I had done short courses on yoga on and off, but was not disciplined enough to take out time to practice it earnestly. In January 2010, I woke up one day to the horror of having lost partial vision in my right eye. I was told by the doctors it was due to high blood pressure occlusion cystoid macular ocdema had occurred i.e. retinal vein had burst. I was prescribed Intravitral Avastin injections to be injected in the eye. Laser was ruled out, as the problem was on the retina. I endured all the routine tests. On recommendation of a family friend, I consulted an eye specialist operating from a small clinic in Bhandup without any fancy hospital exactly in contrast with my earlier doctor. He advised that I bring down my blood pressure, do yoga and let take nature take its own course and he advised against any further treatment of the eye except regular check ups. I started medication for my cholesterol and high blood pressure, and took leave from office for a month and joined the Yoga Institute at Santa Cruz. I benefited immensely both physically and mentally from the asanas, asanas, pranayam and pranayam and last but not the least nishpandabhava and nishpandabhava and yoni mudra. mudra. My eye problem was solved without the help of any high end medications or injections, and my vision was back to normal. I completed Diploma in Yoga (Foundation) of Mumbai University in 2011 and went on to join the Advance Diploma Course in Yoga. Yoga . Here I got introduced to the subtle
nuances of the yoga. The next step was not to confine myself to the physical aspects of the profound science but to actually acquire insights into the philosophy of yoga. The theory part of yoga philosophy reveals that there is much more than merely physical or mental aspects, it encompasses the methods of spiritual development of man. This theory totally based on the Yoga Sutras of Sage Patanjali was an education for the understanding of the Self. I learnt that yoga education is apara para gyanam and that it brings about full knowledge of this inner dimension of personality with regard to the spiritual reality. The most important aspect of yoga education which was very relevant was overcoming the antarayas and ways ways to get rid of these obstacles. This brought out positive energy and a zest to study the inner self. I also learnt that by regularly following the yamas and yamas and niyamas impurities, which cover the pure nature of the Self, can be removed. Mere reading would have not exposed me to the joy of perceptive wisdom, the systematic coverage given to all the topics and the excellent methodology adopted by all the dedicated teachers of Mumbai University bestowed upon me infinite joy each time I understood a complex subject matter. I benefited immensely from these great tools for self development. a) Pratipaksha Bhavana Bhavana taught me being in awareness, being a witness to the positive and negative feelings and how to arrest the negative thoughts and replace them with positive ones. Pratipaksha bhavana has resulted in drastically reducing the swift reactions to situations which result in lot of negativity. Over the time, the process of slowing down thoughts, speech actions, carefully considering the thoughts and words and deeds became more intuitive and arises
naturally with little effort. I have learned to respond to situations and people in a positive manner. I have become more tolerant and I have adopted a soft approach towards people. b) Anitya Bhavana brought about lot of clarity. Most of the memory about every day happenings is lost due to clutter. Smriti sadhana brought about the role of being a witness to everyday happenings. This practice brought a lot of realization regarding time wasted and flaws in my working, for which I could take corrective actions to rectify the same. Contemplation on ANITYA on ANITYA and and dwelling on the impermanence of nature seemed to lighten my burden. I chose to take things one at a time as and when they came without any anticipation and expectation. Reflection upon the changing nature and transitory nature of the world actually brought lot of hope that these trying times shall pass and tomorrow will be a new day. It has formed a protective aura through which nothing negative can penetrate or even if it does it does not leave its impression. c) Cittaprasadana is attitude training through Maitri, Karuna, Mudita and Upeksha. This attitude training with help of these four virtues helped me in bringing a meaningful approach in maintaining and cultivating relationships. Maitri, Karuna, Mudita and Upeksha gave me clarity and balance in my social interactions with people. Maitri: Cultivating friendliness with people, feeling happiness for others without having element of attachment and without having any envy. This helped me in expressing myself more openly. K a r u n a : Feeling the pain for people in sorrow, who are undergoing lot of suffering in life, I learnt to be there supporting without being judgemental about their situations they are in. Taking joy in others virtues rejoicing with achievements of M u d i t a : Taking
others without a trace of envy brought a sense of wellbeing, by hearing the good deeds and thinking of virtuous people I feel very inspired. U p e k s h a : Tranquil or neutral feelings towards negative people. I learnt
to curb reactive tendencies and fault finding. I benefited from being pleasant minded and by not attempting to reform I saved myself from generating lot of negativity. These four virtues helped me to distinguish between the right and wrong even the difficult grey areas, I could use my feelings of compassion and empathy rightly. I could cultivate the right attitude towards the different kinds of people I come across in life. This made me aware and conscious about my feelings of envy, anger etc and helped me to remove these negative traits. This practice also gave me a energy boost to my practice of Pratipaksha Bhavana. e) Asanas in yoga not being merely postures, I learnt that they are very important for advancement in yoga as they give complete control over the body and they prepare the body for higher states, to endure hours of sitting or standing to attain higher reality. Mastering a posture for meditating for long hours was the aim of asanas, as the physical benefits were experienced by all more emphasis on asanas or yogic postures is seen world wide. I had a very stiff body slouching over the computer desk and was leading sedentary lifestyle for last few years.
In the
mornings I could not go about my tasks with ease, however with practice of asanas I could find relief in stiffness and my posture has also improved. The practice of Prarthanasan for is a excellent practice for posture and maintaining balance at the same time it is a meditative posture also. It instils discipline for body and mind and one can gain control over both. Tadasan and its variation, Utkatasan, Trikonasan and
its
variations,
Ekpadasan,
Chakraasan,
Sukhasan,
Vajrasan,
Ardhapadmasan (asanas with specification as a meditative posture) Ushtrasan,
Pashchimotanasan,
Bhadrasan,
Vakrasan,
Ardhamatsendrasan and Dhanurasan (Asanas for f or the spine). Practice of these asanas along with non specific stretches has had therapeutic effects on my body and mind. d) Pranayama is the is the restrain of breath, and the regulation of breath is yogic pranayama. The equal breathing created awareness and helped in concentration. Ratio breathing prolonging breath at will and restraining breath at will helped in control of the mind over the senses, imbalances are corrected. The tridoshas kapha, pitta and vatta are in balance there by giving immunity to the body against illness. The blood circulation is in order. The benefits of pranayama are multifold and have helped me as a mental stress reliever. Anulom vilom pranayama has been a excellent practice for calming the mind. e)
Shuddi Kriyas: i) Kapalbhati ii) Kapalarandhra Dhouti iii)
Karanarandhra Dhouti iv) Jeevamoolashodhana v) Jalaneti vi) Sutra neti vii) Trataka These kriyas part of shatkarmas which have important place in niyamas of Ashtanga yoga. They are extremely relevant in the polluted city atmosphere. I have experienced the wondrous wondrous benefits these have in removing the impurities accumulated due to the fast paced city lifestyle. The entire body is benefited by these practices. Sutra neti and jalneti have had curative effects on the nasal passage and destroys phlegm. I have also experienced that a good practice of kapalbhati enhances meditation. I have experienced Nasika Trataka and candle gazing both a
very deep spiritual practices. Though I had vision problems in the past I could feel that these practices are beneficial . f) Mudras : udras : i) Akasha Mudra ii) Bhoochari Mudra iii) Shanmukhi Mudra iv) Yoga Mudra v) Ashwini Mudra vi) Vipiritakarni Mudra. Mudra means symbol direct attention to the inner. They are rich in practice and generate wholesome attitude. The practice of the mudras, which are subtle attitude training they have helped me to calm the mind by bringing emotional stability and reduces agitation.
Shamukhi mudra or yoni
mudra helped becoming aware of the inner by drawing the senses inwards and quieten the mind. Mind has windows that are the senses, by regulating the senses by yoni mudra and nishpanda bhava pratyahara can be achieved.
By practice of Yoga mudra the attitude of
surrenderfulness with humility and submission to the higher reality is experienced. g) OM Chanting (Pranava Japa): OM represents the nirguna and saguna saguna aspects of ISHVARA. Constant chanting of syllable AUM long pronunciation and short pronunciation leads to control of senses. OM chanting and reflecting on the meaning helps in bringing calmness and equanimity.
OM chanting takes the mind to higher
level of
concentration. h) Swadhaya : Study of spiritual texts and scriptures very important niyama. I have gained new insights and better understanding with study of Yoga Sutras and Bhagavad-Gita and I am able to reflect on the teachings. i) Ishvarpranidhana: The Ishvarapranidhana is placing all the efforts made and all the work done at the feet of LORD. I have inculcated this karmayoga attitude to do the best best and leave leave the rest. If I attain success
it is also not attributed to me nor is my failure, all is samarpan to samarpan to Ishvara, this attitude represents detachment, a state of ego but without being an egoist. The Advance diploma in yoga opened new doors and took me to level of understanding the profound yoga philosophy along with the Jnana, Karma and Bhakti Yoga of the Bhagavad-Gita. The study of consciousness in context with the yoga philosophy, eastern philosophy, western philosophy and the neurobiological studies undertaken left me astounded. The topics of Advaita Vedanta, Kashmir Shaivism, Kundalini Yoga, Buddhist philosophy, Jaina philosophy, Vipassana and Preksha meditation has kindled my interest and zest for more knowledge. I would like to sum up by stating that Ashtanga Yoga when applied in day to day life brings awareness in all spheres. Yama and Niyama of the Ashtanga Yoga is attitude training which sharpens senses and one attains focused mind. mind. Self enquiry and self assessment is achieved by which one can take remedial measures to overcome stress and lead a good quality life. In today‟s fast paced competitive times yoga is all the more relevant.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
The Yoga of Patanjali - M.R.Yardi Meditation Mind Mind and Patanjali‟s YogaYoga- Swami Bhaskarananda
Notes from Yoga Institute Santa Cruz
References from the Internet (www.swamij.com)
Notes from Diploma in Yoga (Foundation)
Notes from Advance Diploma in Yoga
