YOGA FOR WOMAN
Mother Sitadevi
Application of Yoga
Though fostered in an atmosphere of sex prejudice, Yoga with its
universal outlook refused admission to none. Yoga may therefore be
practiced both by males as well as females. The yoga authorities go so
far as to state that even a prostitute can attain the highest objective
of life by following the course of practical Yoga. Thus, Practical Yoga
removed the bar against women. Though the yogic authorities are clear on
this issue, many asramas and institutions expected to teach yoga, refuse
admission to females and married men. That this should have happened in
the twentieth century is really surprising!
Again, since Yoga claims to be a positive science, it is foregone
conclusion that its various methods and exercises are undoubtedly
equally useful to both man and woman. As such it makes no distinction
between either caste, creed, nationality or, above all, between the two
sexes. I have already observed that practical Yoga does not close its
doors to women.
But as there are certain constitutional differences, both physiological
and psychological, between man and woman, it is essential that
preference be given to those yogic practices which fulfill her special
requirements. There are certain yogic exercises which are more suited to
physical and mental needs of a woman than other practices. From my own
experience of the past eight years, I have been able to select and
formulate a graduated course of practical training which is applicable
particularly to the growing needs of the modern woman.
What I have already observed in my previous statements may be
re-emphasized with advantage for the purpose of guiding the fair sex in
their study of Yoga. It is this: that the physical and mental training
of the two sexes must differ radically in order to harmonize it with
their special needs, to perfect what is best in each, and thus to fit
each for its own future life and environment.
While the culture of Yoga recognizes no difference between the sexes, it
is essential, however, in the interest and progress of Yoga, that a new
scheme of physical training for women be evolved in the light of our
modern knowledge upon this subject. One thing is certain that the yogic
physical training for women must not follow slavishly the scheme planned
for men. What is best for men may not be the best for women just because
it is the same. Those with fair knowledge of the physiology and
psychology of the weaker sex may easily realize how impossible a yogic
physical course on the same lines for both sexes.
Its aspect must differ for a woman's training should develop the
characteristics of beauty, growth, symmetry, poise, elasticity, besides
proper carriage and curves peculiar to her. If practical Yoga is to be
useful, it cannot with impunity ignore the psychological and
physiological differences between the boy and the girl and between man
and woman.
My experience is that the yogic exercises, since they are non-violent
and non-fatiguing are particularly suited to a woman and make her more
beautiful for real beauty is not confined merely to physical appearance
but in the perfect health symmetry both of the body and mind.
Need of Physical Education for Woman
Our body needs daily care, if good health is to be maintained. Modern
physical environments have made this doubly imperative for bodily
illness is becoming common while good health is rare. Over-activity and
inactivity are the two modern curses of civilization and, especially, in
countries with orthodox ideals, a woman gets the worst of it. Among the
poor, woman is overworked and needs more rest than exercise with better
facilities of sanitation, hygiene and other auxiliary means to healthful
living, while among the middle and well-to-do classes, usually the
educated-blessed with fair circumstances – she suffers from inactivity
and superfluity.
In all that concerns health, the modern educated woman labors under many
disadvantages. First, she is taught to value her education more than her
health. Secondly, with her progress in education she regards physical
work as degrading and believes that mental pursuits reflect refinement
and culture.
Thirdly, false notions of beauty and social etiquette make her more
unnatural and hypersensitive. Fourthly the strain of modern living adds
to the increasing demand on her nervous system. Thus, carelessness,
inactivity, restrain of emotions and natural calls added to nervous
irritation added to nervous irritation make good health virtually
impossible for her.
Advantages of the Yogic Exercises
Many women refrain from exercise because of the fear that they may
acquire bulky and muscular development. This again is erroneous because
of the fear that they may acquire bulky and rugged muscular development.
This again is erroneous because it is a well-known physiological fact
that there are fewer fatty globules in the tissues of a man than in a
woman, which offer her shape and symmetry by rounding into harmonious
curves every part of her body. Thus the fair sex does not develop like
that of the sterner sex.
But above all the yogic exercises differ fundamentally from the
hard-type muscular gymnastics. Through physical and mental poise, proper
carriage and movements of gentle stretching and exercising, the yogic
postures help to maintain normal elasticity of the muscles, uniformity
in circulation and thus to contributes to the health of all the
important internal organs and the nervous system. Yogic physical culture
keeps the body supple, slim, clean within and without. In short, yoga
beautifies the body by perfect symmetry and poise, besides promoting
physical well-being.
Published in the April 2010 edition of Yoga & Total Health Magazine.
The Official Blog of The Yoga Institute Santacruz East Mumbai.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BEING EDUCATED ABOUT YOGA
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BEING EDUCATED ABOUT YOGA
John Kimbrough
Most people will agree that any kind of education is of great use and
should provide them with a sense of joy, unless they are under a lot of
pressure from parents, teachers and themselves to succeed or are
learning about or acquiring a skill regarding something that they really
do not enjoy or that they really do not need.
But for most of us, it is the life that we live outside of the
classroom, school, college, institute, university or vocational training
center that is the most important thing to learn about and understand,
but we never do that.
We see examples of this in our own life, in the lives of those around us
and in the daily news report from all corners of the globe.
The rate of suicides among those who are presently attending
universities is alarmingly high and disturbing as these people are
already well on the path of life, involved with working and having a
family.
Many who have had a fine education and a distinguished career also are
caught up in a cycle of mental and emotional self–abuse and abuse to
others, while some are addicted to drinking and substance and drug use.
Marriages fail or in some cases lead to abuse and even death.
Many times we see these failures in people and lives and attribute it to
their lack of education, meaning their inability or lack of opportunity
to have attended school.
But in life it is not so much the formal education to gain knowledge and
skill tht is important but the ability to live a life based on a
foundation that is skilful and brings balance.
Yoga proclaims itself to be a science and discipline that does bring an
individual this foundation and balance.
Those who teach or have experience in practicing yoga will tell us that
it appeals to them for a number of reasons.
One is that it addresses all areas of one's life.
Another is that it gives them something to do that is physically
demanding and rewarding at the same time.
Many will say that its practice has given them insight about both
themselves and others that has resulted in very practical benefit, such
as greater self-confidence, understanding and energy.
Yoga does address all areas of one's life, giving us guidelines about
how and what we think and why, the importance of good habits and healthy
living, and insight about how to speak and act in a way that brings
benefits to both oneself and others.
The postures can be demanding, but many people enjoy this kind of gentle
workout and they sense the rewards in that when they are finished
attending such a class of practicing postures they feel more energetic
and relaxed at the same time.
Many people need to be more mindful about the importance of their habits
as regards sleep, diet and leisure activities and Yoga provides them
with guidelines about doing these things.
It is for these reasons and a host of more subtle ones that those who
are proponents of yoga say that there are great benefits for all people
in being educated about it
John Kimbrough
Most people will agree that any kind of education is of great use and
should provide them with a sense of joy, unless they are under a lot of
pressure from parents, teachers and themselves to succeed or are
learning about or acquiring a skill regarding something that they really
do not enjoy or that they really do not need.
But for most of us, it is the life that we live outside of the
classroom, school, college, institute, university or vocational training
center that is the most important thing to learn about and understand,
but we never do that.
We see examples of this in our own life, in the lives of those around us
and in the daily news report from all corners of the globe.
The rate of suicides among those who are presently attending
universities is alarmingly high and disturbing as these people are
already well on the path of life, involved with working and having a
family.
Many who have had a fine education and a distinguished career also are
caught up in a cycle of mental and emotional self–abuse and abuse to
others, while some are addicted to drinking and substance and drug use.
Marriages fail or in some cases lead to abuse and even death.
Many times we see these failures in people and lives and attribute it to
their lack of education, meaning their inability or lack of opportunity
to have attended school.
But in life it is not so much the formal education to gain knowledge and
skill tht is important but the ability to live a life based on a
foundation that is skilful and brings balance.
Yoga proclaims itself to be a science and discipline that does bring an
individual this foundation and balance.
Those who teach or have experience in practicing yoga will tell us that
it appeals to them for a number of reasons.
One is that it addresses all areas of one's life.
Another is that it gives them something to do that is physically
demanding and rewarding at the same time.
Many will say that its practice has given them insight about both
themselves and others that has resulted in very practical benefit, such
as greater self-confidence, understanding and energy.
Yoga does address all areas of one's life, giving us guidelines about
how and what we think and why, the importance of good habits and healthy
living, and insight about how to speak and act in a way that brings
benefits to both oneself and others.
The postures can be demanding, but many people enjoy this kind of gentle
workout and they sense the rewards in that when they are finished
attending such a class of practicing postures they feel more energetic
and relaxed at the same time.
Many people need to be more mindful about the importance of their habits
as regards sleep, diet and leisure activities and Yoga provides them
with guidelines about doing these things.
It is for these reasons and a host of more subtle ones that those who
are proponents of yoga say that there are great benefits for all people
in being educated about it
Published in the April 2010 edition of Yoga & Total Health Magazine.
IMPRESSIONS OF THE 7 DAYS RESIDENTIAL CAMP
IMPRESSIONS OF THE 7 DAYS RESIDENTIAL CAMP
Dr. S. Ghanekar M.S.(Surgeon)
My interest in yoga must have come as a Samskara from earlier births
since I am interested in this science right from childhood.
My association with The Yoga Institute was since June 1971 when Pt.
Shambhunathji conducted a 21 – day Better Living course in Goa.
But,later I was busy with my professional education and hence could not
think of devoting enough time for a deeper study of yoga.
Its only since the last four to five years that I have partly settled in
professional career and thought that I would learn more about yoga.
In November 1988 when I was on my trip to Bombay I visited The Yoga
Institute and came to know about the 7=day Health Camp. Ever since then
I was eager to come here. But, due to my professional commitments I had
to postpone my visit to June 1989. I am glad to renew my association
with the Institute.
I have learnt a lot every moment within a limited amount of time
directly from Shri Yogendraji – the Founder, Smt. Sita Devi – Mother,
Dr. Jayadeva and Smt. Hansaji. My teachers Shri Agarwal, Smt. Ratnaji
and guest speakers, as well as indirectly from all the other workers at
the Institute and through the group discussions with the participants of
7 month teachers course and other campers.
I am really impressed by all the activities of the Institute being
carried out in a Karma-yoga way. I feel that The Yoga Institute is like
an oasis for a weary traveler to satisfy his hunger and quench his
thirst for knowledge and a cozy place to relax and rest, awhile for
introspection into himself, the world and the supreme reality before he
resumes the journey towards self-realization. I envy those from Bombay
who can come here regularly and get enlightenment.
On the first day Smt. Hansaji mentioned "Fill your vessel with knowledge
which is available in plenty here. I have tried to fill my small vessel
with my limited strength. Now I have to rush home early before then holy
water of knowledge gets dried up by the bright sun of materialism which
is so powerful all over the world or before it gets emptied by the
pushes and pulls of the modern world.
The days spent here at the Asrama will be same of those cherished
moments of my life which will give me an inspiration to carry on the
work in a Karmayoga way. I pray to the Almighty to give me the strength
and ask for blessings from my teachers so that what I give will be a lot
more than what I take.
Published in the April 2010 edition of Yoga & Total Health Magazine.
Dr. S. Ghanekar M.S.(Surgeon)
My interest in yoga must have come as a Samskara from earlier births
since I am interested in this science right from childhood.
My association with The Yoga Institute was since June 1971 when Pt.
Shambhunathji conducted a 21 – day Better Living course in Goa.
But,later I was busy with my professional education and hence could not
think of devoting enough time for a deeper study of yoga.
Its only since the last four to five years that I have partly settled in
professional career and thought that I would learn more about yoga.
In November 1988 when I was on my trip to Bombay I visited The Yoga
Institute and came to know about the 7=day Health Camp. Ever since then
I was eager to come here. But, due to my professional commitments I had
to postpone my visit to June 1989. I am glad to renew my association
with the Institute.
I have learnt a lot every moment within a limited amount of time
directly from Shri Yogendraji – the Founder, Smt. Sita Devi – Mother,
Dr. Jayadeva and Smt. Hansaji. My teachers Shri Agarwal, Smt. Ratnaji
and guest speakers, as well as indirectly from all the other workers at
the Institute and through the group discussions with the participants of
7 month teachers course and other campers.
I am really impressed by all the activities of the Institute being
carried out in a Karma-yoga way. I feel that The Yoga Institute is like
an oasis for a weary traveler to satisfy his hunger and quench his
thirst for knowledge and a cozy place to relax and rest, awhile for
introspection into himself, the world and the supreme reality before he
resumes the journey towards self-realization. I envy those from Bombay
who can come here regularly and get enlightenment.
On the first day Smt. Hansaji mentioned "Fill your vessel with knowledge
which is available in plenty here. I have tried to fill my small vessel
with my limited strength. Now I have to rush home early before then holy
water of knowledge gets dried up by the bright sun of materialism which
is so powerful all over the world or before it gets emptied by the
pushes and pulls of the modern world.
The days spent here at the Asrama will be same of those cherished
moments of my life which will give me an inspiration to carry on the
work in a Karmayoga way. I pray to the Almighty to give me the strength
and ask for blessings from my teachers so that what I give will be a lot
more than what I take.
Published in the April 2010 edition of Yoga & Total Health Magazine.
YOGA AND SINUSITIS Dr. P.B. Rajput
YOGA AND SINUSITIS
Dr. P.B. Rajput.
There are about a dozen air sinuses in the human skull. Most of these
are so placed that they drain out in the nasal cavity by gravity only.
The large maxillary sinus has disadvantage; its ostium is small and is
placed in such a place that any defect in nasal cavity (e.g. defects in
mucosal lining, middle turbinate or nasal septum) will lead to closure.
Thus the maxillary sinus for its normal functioning requires two things
(1) good ventilation and (2) good blood supply to maintain cilliary
function. So it is that this maxillary sinus in return depends on
healthily maintaining nasal cavity.
Any defect in the nasal cavity, either due to deviated nasal septum,
hypertrophy of middle turbinate or mucosal collection will lead to
proper ventilation of the nasal cavity which in turn will lead to
maxillary ostium. Repeatedly poor drainage will leas to change of
ciliated epithelium pattern.
Mucosal lining of nasal and paranasal sinuses are under the supreme
control of the sphenopalatine ganglia, which in turn is a part of the
parasympathetic (autonomous) system. Infection, allergy, tension and
emotions are the important factors controlling Mucosa. Infection and
allergies are external factors whereas tension and emotion are internal
factors.
In acute infective case, if it is not complicated, recovery is complete
with medical line of treatment. In chronic state due to deviated nasal
system that blocks ostium, septum shuld be corrected by surgical means
which in turn will lead to reasonable recovery.
External factors like infection and allergy can be easily treated
through Yoga practices, which contribute to good health. The
psychosomatic practices, like Sukhasan, Nishpandabhava have an overall
effect on the body and the mind while Yogendra rhythm of breathing with
simple Asanas has good local effect. Though in acute infection practices
like Jalaneti and Sutraneti should be avoided for fear of spreading
infection to other sinuses. Besides the above constitutional procedures
and dietary changes (e.g. intake of more citrus fruits etc.) would also
help. Yoga practices would bring about recovery provided strict regime
is followed under guidance.
Internal factors like emotional tension can lead to sinuses following
repeated attacks of vasomotor Rhinitis. This condition is purely a
Vascular and secretory phenomenon and under the control of
sphenopalatine ganglia. Yoga practices are known to achieve great deal
of relaxation in such conditions through practices such as Pranayama I,
Savasana, etc. These are the conditions where yoga has much to offer.
I Acute Sinusitis :
Male aged 31 years presented with painful swollen right cheek with edema
of lower eyelid for 4 to 5 days. History of cold since a week. Now
difficulty in breathing through nose, feverishness headache etc. On
examination it was found that he had edematous inflammation of right
cheek with oedema of right lower eyelid.
Anterior rhinos copy revealed pus in both nostrils, Posterior's rhinos
revealed the same tenderness over both frontal and maxillary regions.
Investigations:
1. N. A. D .
2. Fasting Blood sugar 90 mgr %
3. X-ray sinuses 14-1- 72 Bilateral, frontal and Rt. Maxillary
sinusitis.
He was provided Yogic directions as mentioned earlier and in less than a
month improvement was noticeable. He started improving after 4 to 5
days. Swelling over right cheek and oedema of lower eyelid disappeared.
He was advised Jalaineti, Sutrneti after two weeks. After one month
nasal cavity appeared clean, X-ray of sinuses showed improvement.
Unfortunately he left the treatment and a follow up with final X-ray
could not be carried out.
II Chronic sinusitis
A man aged 19 years was suffering from cold for many years. He would
start with sneezing, running nose in the morning etc. He was unable to
concentrate on study and he was hard of hearing for which he is using
hearing aid.
He was seen by quite a few E.N.T. specialists and had 4 times been
punctured and consumed various drugs. The specialist he saw advised him
bilateral, lateral, surgical treatment (Cald-Wel-Luc operation).
He attended my clinic on 18-11-71. Anterior rhinos copy revealed pus.
R.L. septum fairly straight, hypertrophy both inferior turbinates : post
rhino copy revealed collection of mucopus. Otherwise, larynx appeared
normal and conductive deafness in both ears.
Investigations X-ray issues revealed bilateral maxillary sinusitis R.L.
After one month of daily yoga practices such as Sukhasana,
Kapalrandhradhouti, Suryadhyan, Talasana with Yogendra Rhythm,
Yogamudra with Yogendra Rhythm, Pranayamas nos. I and IV and
Nishpandabhava etc. felt better. Anterior rhinos copy revealed marked
improvement in absence of pus; interior turbinates were almost back to
normal size.
Published in the April 2010 edition of Yoga & Total Health Magazine.
Dr. P.B. Rajput.
There are about a dozen air sinuses in the human skull. Most of these
are so placed that they drain out in the nasal cavity by gravity only.
The large maxillary sinus has disadvantage; its ostium is small and is
placed in such a place that any defect in nasal cavity (e.g. defects in
mucosal lining, middle turbinate or nasal septum) will lead to closure.
Thus the maxillary sinus for its normal functioning requires two things
(1) good ventilation and (2) good blood supply to maintain cilliary
function. So it is that this maxillary sinus in return depends on
healthily maintaining nasal cavity.
Any defect in the nasal cavity, either due to deviated nasal septum,
hypertrophy of middle turbinate or mucosal collection will lead to
proper ventilation of the nasal cavity which in turn will lead to
maxillary ostium. Repeatedly poor drainage will leas to change of
ciliated epithelium pattern.
Mucosal lining of nasal and paranasal sinuses are under the supreme
control of the sphenopalatine ganglia, which in turn is a part of the
parasympathetic (autonomous) system. Infection, allergy, tension and
emotions are the important factors controlling Mucosa. Infection and
allergies are external factors whereas tension and emotion are internal
factors.
In acute infective case, if it is not complicated, recovery is complete
with medical line of treatment. In chronic state due to deviated nasal
system that blocks ostium, septum shuld be corrected by surgical means
which in turn will lead to reasonable recovery.
External factors like infection and allergy can be easily treated
through Yoga practices, which contribute to good health. The
psychosomatic practices, like Sukhasan, Nishpandabhava have an overall
effect on the body and the mind while Yogendra rhythm of breathing with
simple Asanas has good local effect. Though in acute infection practices
like Jalaneti and Sutraneti should be avoided for fear of spreading
infection to other sinuses. Besides the above constitutional procedures
and dietary changes (e.g. intake of more citrus fruits etc.) would also
help. Yoga practices would bring about recovery provided strict regime
is followed under guidance.
Internal factors like emotional tension can lead to sinuses following
repeated attacks of vasomotor Rhinitis. This condition is purely a
Vascular and secretory phenomenon and under the control of
sphenopalatine ganglia. Yoga practices are known to achieve great deal
of relaxation in such conditions through practices such as Pranayama I,
Savasana, etc. These are the conditions where yoga has much to offer.
I Acute Sinusitis :
Male aged 31 years presented with painful swollen right cheek with edema
of lower eyelid for 4 to 5 days. History of cold since a week. Now
difficulty in breathing through nose, feverishness headache etc. On
examination it was found that he had edematous inflammation of right
cheek with oedema of right lower eyelid.
Anterior rhinos copy revealed pus in both nostrils, Posterior's rhinos
revealed the same tenderness over both frontal and maxillary regions.
Investigations:
1. N. A. D .
2. Fasting Blood sugar 90 mgr %
3. X-ray sinuses 14-1- 72 Bilateral, frontal and Rt. Maxillary
sinusitis.
He was provided Yogic directions as mentioned earlier and in less than a
month improvement was noticeable. He started improving after 4 to 5
days. Swelling over right cheek and oedema of lower eyelid disappeared.
He was advised Jalaineti, Sutrneti after two weeks. After one month
nasal cavity appeared clean, X-ray of sinuses showed improvement.
Unfortunately he left the treatment and a follow up with final X-ray
could not be carried out.
II Chronic sinusitis
A man aged 19 years was suffering from cold for many years. He would
start with sneezing, running nose in the morning etc. He was unable to
concentrate on study and he was hard of hearing for which he is using
hearing aid.
He was seen by quite a few E.N.T. specialists and had 4 times been
punctured and consumed various drugs. The specialist he saw advised him
bilateral, lateral, surgical treatment (Cald-Wel-Luc operation).
He attended my clinic on 18-11-71. Anterior rhinos copy revealed pus.
R.L. septum fairly straight, hypertrophy both inferior turbinates : post
rhino copy revealed collection of mucopus. Otherwise, larynx appeared
normal and conductive deafness in both ears.
Investigations X-ray issues revealed bilateral maxillary sinusitis R.L.
After one month of daily yoga practices such as Sukhasana,
Kapalrandhradhouti, Suryadhyan, Talasana with Yogendra Rhythm,
Yogamudra with Yogendra Rhythm, Pranayamas nos. I and IV and
Nishpandabhava etc. felt better. Anterior rhinos copy revealed marked
improvement in absence of pus; interior turbinates were almost back to
normal size.
Published in the April 2010 edition of Yoga & Total Health Magazine.
INDIFFERENCE
Stories that stir
INDIFFERENCE Dr. Patanjali J. Yogendra
Satan is once briefing his lieutenants on the techniques of tempting men. He tells his men that the object of this exercise is not teaching men to be just indifferent, nor persuading them to be evil, but the intention is to persuade them to do nothing at all.
The important thing Satan says is to keep the men comfortable. Let nothing upset or disturb him. If he becomes even a little concerned about any vital area, distract him by reminding him of good food and importance of maintaining good health to enjoy good food.
"I" said the Satan, "will always see to it that there are bad men. Your job is to provide me with men who do not care".
Published in the April 2010 edition of Yoga & Total Health Magazine.
CAN ONE ENJOY GOOD HEALTH IN MODERN TIMES
CAN ONE ENJOY GOOD HEALTH IN
MODERN TIMES
MODERN TIMES
Shri Yogendraji
In the ancient period the laws of nature were universal, but even though the laws have remained the same there is a change in the situation. This has made the difference in the application of yoga because in the past the environment was such that it helped the students to continue the study and keep healthy, The ecological factors today have become so harassing that it is a problem today even to maintain good health. A student of yoga who follows the Yogic practices and techniques regularly will be able to maintain good health. To what extent is this possible is the question. With all the factors against man as they are today, to what extent can yoga help in this matter? Man lives at many levels for example physical, moral, emotional. Let us take physical good health.
Are we having the same environmental factors as we had in the past? Even as normal good health can be maintained through the environmental factors, yoga may add a little to it or better it. We may say that in the past there was better sunshine than the crowded houses as we see today, the atmosphere was not as polluted as at present, the water much cleaner, the food not adulterated. So the situation arises that under the changing circumstances how man, even though doing yoga practices, can keep good health. Our needs are increasing. Old diseases are wearing out because of medicines available for controlling them. On the other hand new diseases are cropping up which are difficult to control and which affect man not only at the physical level but also the emotional level.
With the conditions that prevail, if a student of Yoga comes to this institution, learns the yoga practices which are supposed to give him good health, to what extent can yoga help in the present conditions? For a living man needs air, water, food which are his basic needs. As the scientists say, the air is being increasingly polluted today. In Japan drug stores have oxygen rooms. When a person feels tired and exhausted, he goes into these rooms for a few minutes and comes out feeling much refreshed. If a person practices yoga breathing exercises here he will die of polluted air! How can yoga help?
Water is also polluted. It is purified with large doses of chlorine in it, which is not good for the body. In India it is not even sufficiently oxygenated. With such type of water, lifeless as it is, what can a Yogi do? If he does not drink water he will be dehydrated. If he drinks water he will be putting dirt into his body. So, instead of having good health he will be busy taking something unnatural and then fighting to remove it. .
In the field of food. A scientist analyzed the foods that we eat and found out that only 18 percent of what we eat is good food and the rest is the kind that he himself does not know. If a man knows only that much of what he is eating, how can he have good health? It is said that yoga was very difficult to follow in the old days but I say that it is so even more today. In the past we had favorable environmental factors. A man got enough energy and health drinking cool and sweet water. Today a person could die eating bad food!
How much then can a student of yoga expect from yoga? The general expectation would be that as soon as one takes up yoga and follows the practices, he would be completely free from all diseases. We live in a congested area and most people around us are suffering from some disease or the other. A person next to you might be suffering from respiratory complications and is severely coughing. Ordinarily the sun would destroy the bacteria but in a modern city with its congestions even this is not possible. So a student of yoga doing his practices should not expect perfect good physical health. It is not possible in modern conditions. He has to therefore satisfy himself in maintaining good health as best as possible. No amount of effort by any government or society can give you a long life or good health so long as industrialization continues and the forces of nature are affected by it.
It is better to live away from congested cities even though there may be some inconvenience n traveling. Many years ago a fifteen year old American came to learn yoga. Today he is an engineer. When I inquired about him he said that the city in which he lived and worked is so congested that he bought a cottage and a farm outside the city and is now living there. A university professor from Japan said that he understood everything. So when he went back to Japan what should he do. So, when he went back to Japan he bought a place away from the city congestion and though he had to drive daily to the city for his work, he said that he enjoyed some good health.
When we were on the lookout for a plot of land for the institute, Dr. Jayadeva had gone to a place near Daman. He found a place which was nice with hills around and a river nearby. Later he met a friend of his and told him of the plot he had seen. The friend told him that a paper factory was to be shortly constructed near that land and that it would not be advisable to build an institution there. Thus the physical environment is against all human beings and quite contrary to what a Yogi requires to live.
However, the knowledge of yoga can help the student to escape from the calamity of death in case of or due to bad environmental factors, but I cannot promise him absolute good health.
Another factor that affects us emotionally is work. There is injustice and inhuman treatment meted out. People under such circumstances also behave a little indifferently. Politics has entered the soul of man. The mind of every individual has reached a stage where we cannot be sure how he will behave or react..
Published in the April 2010 edition of Yoga & Total Health Magazine.
AWARENESS IS THE KEY
AWARENESS IS THE KEY
Anil Peter
Awareness is the ability, to stand back and watch one's mental and
physical activity. So what's unique about this phenomena? Well, the
fact of the matter is very few of us are aware. Most of the time, we
have so completely identified ourselves, with our body, mind, work,
habits etc. that we get lost in them. And yet, this quality called
awareness is unique to the human species.
Plants have feelings, but no mobility, Animals have both feeling and
mobility. Man also has this but at the same time he has this extra
attribute awareness. Man has this extra and all important ability to be
able to know his consciousness, and to allow it to manifest and blossom
to its fullest potential. This consciousness, the underlying life
principle in every atom, is the same in all things, but its expression
can be different. In plants and bacteria, this consciousness is
expressed at a very rudimentary level, while in man it is expressed at a
far more complex level.
So where does all this get us as far as our daily life is concerned?
If one looks at the nature of the mind, one can immediately see that its
essential nature is movement. By being aware, one watches this movement
of the mind. A very beautiful story would illustrate this point.
There once lived a king, with a beautiful, but rampantly wild horse.
The king promised, that he would handsomely reward anyone, who could
subdue his horse. A contest was therefore arranged, where many tried
mounting this horse, only to be thrown off it. Finally, one rather weak
looking individual volunteered. He escorted the wild horse out, and
returned a while later, seated astride on the horse, with the horse
obeying his every instruction. The king was amazed, and wanted to know
how this man had succeeded, when so many others had failed. To this the
horse tamer replied, "Instead of fighting your stallion, I let him run
freely to his hearts content, following his own impulses. Eventually he
became fatigued and submissive. It was then no problem, to befriend
your horse and gain command".
It is the same with the mind, if we fight and wrestle with the mind, we
will never achieve mastery over it. The method to adopt is similar to
the wild horse tamer, let the mind follow its impulses and tendencies
without restriction, until it becomes ready to accept your authority,
give the mind free run. Don't suppress it, but merely watch and get to
know it.
Through increased awareness, we start responding to situations instead
of reacting to them. That is, by watching the life process, the
activities around oneself as well as one's mental activities, this
divine intelligence in us, the consciousness, is better able to express
itself. As a result of which we become better communicators, salesmen,
research scientists, family men etc. As one starts responding to the
environment, one starts living in greater harmony with it.
Awareness is a quality that can quite easily be developed. It is in
fact a quality, we always have possessed, but have forgotten it, because
of wrong thinking. Awareness is in fact a process of letting go. We
let go of our dogmas, ideas, concepts, and try seeing things as they
are.
Published in the October 2010 edition of Yoga & Total Health Magazine.
Anil Peter
Awareness is the ability, to stand back and watch one's mental and
physical activity. So what's unique about this phenomena? Well, the
fact of the matter is very few of us are aware. Most of the time, we
have so completely identified ourselves, with our body, mind, work,
habits etc. that we get lost in them. And yet, this quality called
awareness is unique to the human species.
Plants have feelings, but no mobility, Animals have both feeling and
mobility. Man also has this but at the same time he has this extra
attribute awareness. Man has this extra and all important ability to be
able to know his consciousness, and to allow it to manifest and blossom
to its fullest potential. This consciousness, the underlying life
principle in every atom, is the same in all things, but its expression
can be different. In plants and bacteria, this consciousness is
expressed at a very rudimentary level, while in man it is expressed at a
far more complex level.
So where does all this get us as far as our daily life is concerned?
If one looks at the nature of the mind, one can immediately see that its
essential nature is movement. By being aware, one watches this movement
of the mind. A very beautiful story would illustrate this point.
There once lived a king, with a beautiful, but rampantly wild horse.
The king promised, that he would handsomely reward anyone, who could
subdue his horse. A contest was therefore arranged, where many tried
mounting this horse, only to be thrown off it. Finally, one rather weak
looking individual volunteered. He escorted the wild horse out, and
returned a while later, seated astride on the horse, with the horse
obeying his every instruction. The king was amazed, and wanted to know
how this man had succeeded, when so many others had failed. To this the
horse tamer replied, "Instead of fighting your stallion, I let him run
freely to his hearts content, following his own impulses. Eventually he
became fatigued and submissive. It was then no problem, to befriend
your horse and gain command".
It is the same with the mind, if we fight and wrestle with the mind, we
will never achieve mastery over it. The method to adopt is similar to
the wild horse tamer, let the mind follow its impulses and tendencies
without restriction, until it becomes ready to accept your authority,
give the mind free run. Don't suppress it, but merely watch and get to
know it.
Through increased awareness, we start responding to situations instead
of reacting to them. That is, by watching the life process, the
activities around oneself as well as one's mental activities, this
divine intelligence in us, the consciousness, is better able to express
itself. As a result of which we become better communicators, salesmen,
research scientists, family men etc. As one starts responding to the
environment, one starts living in greater harmony with it.
Awareness is a quality that can quite easily be developed. It is in
fact a quality, we always have possessed, but have forgotten it, because
of wrong thinking. Awareness is in fact a process of letting go. We
let go of our dogmas, ideas, concepts, and try seeing things as they
are.
Published in the October 2010 edition of Yoga & Total Health Magazine.
WILL POWER
WILL POWER
H. Sequiera
Through the practice of yoga, one can strengthen one's will power.
One does not have to do heroic things to develop one's will power.
Doing some simple yoga practices, regularly and with devotion can
enhance one's will power. Some selected Pranayama also do the same.
Keeping the mind one pointed, while doing the yoga practices, followed
by focusing the mind on a candle light, or on one's breath or doing any
concentration-centering practice also helps.
This enhanced will power then can be applied to the daily chores.
Without delay and procrastination it one does the entire chores one has
to do willingly and with attention also enhance the will power.
Improving one's self control in all dealings during the day, by control
of thought and speech also helps. Holding one's tongue (metaphorically
that is), also helps one to develop will power and thus control the
mind. A short period of 'mauna' (inner and outer silence) greatly helps
to develop our will.
Control on one's diet is also helpful. Eating at fixed times, foods
that enhance one's mental energy is a good way to develop the will.
This control also extends to the quantity of food.
Going to bed early and getting up early helps one to plan one's day and
then apply one's will power to do all things well, with attention and
precision.
Thus Yoga provides us a framework to improve our will - drop by drop -
and develop our will.
To develop the will one does not have to do heroic things or think too
much; just do it.
H. Sequiera
Through the practice of yoga, one can strengthen one's will power.
One does not have to do heroic things to develop one's will power.
Doing some simple yoga practices, regularly and with devotion can
enhance one's will power. Some selected Pranayama also do the same.
Keeping the mind one pointed, while doing the yoga practices, followed
by focusing the mind on a candle light, or on one's breath or doing any
concentration-centering practice also helps.
This enhanced will power then can be applied to the daily chores.
Without delay and procrastination it one does the entire chores one has
to do willingly and with attention also enhance the will power.
Improving one's self control in all dealings during the day, by control
of thought and speech also helps. Holding one's tongue (metaphorically
that is), also helps one to develop will power and thus control the
mind. A short period of 'mauna' (inner and outer silence) greatly helps
to develop our will.
Control on one's diet is also helpful. Eating at fixed times, foods
that enhance one's mental energy is a good way to develop the will.
This control also extends to the quantity of food.
Going to bed early and getting up early helps one to plan one's day and
then apply one's will power to do all things well, with attention and
precision.
Thus Yoga provides us a framework to improve our will - drop by drop -
and develop our will.
To develop the will one does not have to do heroic things or think too
much; just do it.
Published in the October 2010 edition of Yoga & Total Health Magazine.
DRAWING A LINE
DRAWING A LINE by Sudha N. Desai
Rani's husband used to admire her qualities of cleanliness and
meticulousness. He often praised her in front of his friends and
colleagues. She used to keep the house spic and span. Everything would
be in its place. Clothes neatly ironed, the children's toys properly
kept in the cupboards, the kitchen clean and the toilets dry. She was
as if obsessed with this cleanliness.
Over a period of time her husband started getting irritated with this
obsession of his wife. He would come home tired from work and would
wish to relax for sometime, but Rani would insist on his removing his
shoes outside the house and washing and drying his feet before entering.
Even after this, she would not like him to rest his feet on the table.
Every time he put down the newspaper after reading it, Rani would insist
that he folds it neatly and keeps it serially on the cupboard. She
would not let him lie down on his bed until he changed into his night
clothes.
She would be so busy cleaning and keeping things in order that she would
not even sit by her husband's side when he had his dinner. Rani's
children too found it very difficult to keep up to her standard of
cleanliness and orderliness. Her husband started getting irritated with
her obsession as a result of which, he started staying away from his
house for longer periods of time. He spent more time with his friends
and would come home late. Gradually things came to such a pass that he
was unable to even stand the annoying look that his wife gave him every
time he did something that was not to her liking. He was looking for a
way to get out of this.
Fortunately for him, one of his friends suggested to him to visit The
Yoga Institute and meet Smt. Hansaji. He accepted the suggestion and
took an appointment with Smt. Hansaji. He brought his wife Rani along
for the meeting and explained the entire situation.
Smt. Hansaji wanted to speak to Rani in private and asked her husband to
wait outside. She told Rani to close her eyes and relax for sometime.
She then told her to visualize her house – all neat and clean, spic and
span, everything in order, everything all right except, that she was the
only on living there and her husband and children were absent. The
smile that had begun to come upon Rani's face slowly faded away. Smt.
Hansaji next told her to visualize her house – slightly untidy, messy
and not up to her standards, but, with her husband and children happily
living with her. Smt. Hansaji now asked Rani to open her eyes and to
narrate her feelings.
While narrating her feelings Rani broke into tears. She realized how
difficult and foolish she was behaving. She said that she valued her
family more than her cleanliness. She realized that cleanliness is
good, but one has to draw a line a and know one's limit. Inspite of all
the dusting and cleaning in one's house, it is bound to get dirty again.
One cannot keep cleaning it the whole day. Smt. Hansaji explained to
her that what is more important is cleanliness at the mental level.
Obsession about external cleanliness, beyond a point, makes the mind
negative, which in turn makes others around you unhappy. On the other
hand, a positive and clean mind ensures happiness all around.
Thus, Rani learnt a simple lesson from Smt. Hansaji, which saved her
marriage and family from breaking down.
Published in the October 2010 edition of Yoga & Total Health Magazine.
Rani's husband used to admire her qualities of cleanliness and
meticulousness. He often praised her in front of his friends and
colleagues. She used to keep the house spic and span. Everything would
be in its place. Clothes neatly ironed, the children's toys properly
kept in the cupboards, the kitchen clean and the toilets dry. She was
as if obsessed with this cleanliness.
Over a period of time her husband started getting irritated with this
obsession of his wife. He would come home tired from work and would
wish to relax for sometime, but Rani would insist on his removing his
shoes outside the house and washing and drying his feet before entering.
Even after this, she would not like him to rest his feet on the table.
Every time he put down the newspaper after reading it, Rani would insist
that he folds it neatly and keeps it serially on the cupboard. She
would not let him lie down on his bed until he changed into his night
clothes.
She would be so busy cleaning and keeping things in order that she would
not even sit by her husband's side when he had his dinner. Rani's
children too found it very difficult to keep up to her standard of
cleanliness and orderliness. Her husband started getting irritated with
her obsession as a result of which, he started staying away from his
house for longer periods of time. He spent more time with his friends
and would come home late. Gradually things came to such a pass that he
was unable to even stand the annoying look that his wife gave him every
time he did something that was not to her liking. He was looking for a
way to get out of this.
Fortunately for him, one of his friends suggested to him to visit The
Yoga Institute and meet Smt. Hansaji. He accepted the suggestion and
took an appointment with Smt. Hansaji. He brought his wife Rani along
for the meeting and explained the entire situation.
Smt. Hansaji wanted to speak to Rani in private and asked her husband to
wait outside. She told Rani to close her eyes and relax for sometime.
She then told her to visualize her house – all neat and clean, spic and
span, everything in order, everything all right except, that she was the
only on living there and her husband and children were absent. The
smile that had begun to come upon Rani's face slowly faded away. Smt.
Hansaji next told her to visualize her house – slightly untidy, messy
and not up to her standards, but, with her husband and children happily
living with her. Smt. Hansaji now asked Rani to open her eyes and to
narrate her feelings.
While narrating her feelings Rani broke into tears. She realized how
difficult and foolish she was behaving. She said that she valued her
family more than her cleanliness. She realized that cleanliness is
good, but one has to draw a line a and know one's limit. Inspite of all
the dusting and cleaning in one's house, it is bound to get dirty again.
One cannot keep cleaning it the whole day. Smt. Hansaji explained to
her that what is more important is cleanliness at the mental level.
Obsession about external cleanliness, beyond a point, makes the mind
negative, which in turn makes others around you unhappy. On the other
hand, a positive and clean mind ensures happiness all around.
Thus, Rani learnt a simple lesson from Smt. Hansaji, which saved her
marriage and family from breaking down.
Published in the October 2010 edition of Yoga & Total Health Magazine.
Talk by Judge Shri Dharmadhikari
Talk by Judge Shri Dharmadhikari
I have a liking for Yoga, I have less of an understanding of Yoga. I do
find some time to study Yoga and practice it. My people at home do keep
telling me that if the judge does not remain poised everything will go
haywire. And to keep the judge in a state of equipoise, Yoga is a must.
This much I can say with my own experience and the experience of others.
When I was informed that Truth was my subject of presentation today, I
was in a way relieved because Truth was your subject of presentation
today, I was in a way relieved because Truth is intimately connected to
Justice with which I am connected.
In one of his Ashram talks Gandhiji said that Yoga brings about
equipoise in man and take him towards Aparigraha and he is prevented
from hoarding things beyond his immediate needs and all these are
following the path of truth.
Friends, it is very easy to talk about Yoga, but to follow it in
everyday practice is extremely difficult.
Today if there is any leading light for our judges, advocates and courts
it is Mahatma Gandhi. You will also find reference to him in many of
the judgments of the Supreme Court and the High Courts. You should
understand that this is because truth has a lot of bearing on the
administration of justice.
You just mentioned that when we go to court, we swear that we shall
speak the truth and nothing but the truth. But in practice what is said
is all quite apart from truth.
You keep inquiring as to how long it takes for the truth to come out.
But the reason for the delay is because while demanding the
administration of justice, the man seeking it wants that his opponent is
punished properly and taught a lesson of his life. And though this may
be the legitimate concern of the person approaching the court, the judge
cannot simply restrict himself to this aspect alone, but has to
administer justice and that means to try to get to the truth at all
times.
The Indian Evidence Act is our path-finder. The evidence is something
you see as a matter of fact or reality. Now see how close the connection
is to what one has seen and what one is supposed to come and deposit
before the court. The judge is not a witness to the crime and to remove
the darkness with which he is covered he needs the help of all those who
know the truth. So only depending upon truth on which our evidence act
is based is our administration of justice.
The act is in force since 1872. Some find it very troublesome and
unwieldy. And what is truth. Evidence is proof and proof is truth.
The work of a judge is the work of a judge is the work of God and truth.
And why is it so said? You will see that our supreme court has twice
explained it by giving even proper quotations. The court has said,
"Justice is constant and perpetual will to render to everyone that to
which he is entitled. How will you do this? Take for instance the case
of a person who is poor and downtrodden and another with abundant of
riches. Both come before the court because they had to suffer some
injustice. In this case in whose favor is justice to be seen? In case
the truth is in favor of X or Y, and injustice is done to him, then that
has to be found out.
So justice has to be administered and we are told that justice is a
constant and continuous endeavor to search the truth. Otherwise what
will be the result?
You will therefore see that a judge has been called today to give you
this talk because he has to face the biggest untruth.
Friends my name does incorporate an element of truth in it and I used to
practice law earlier and our J. Krishnamurthy, with whose name you may
be familiar, used to remark that we pray in the morning and go to the
temple and then in the afternoon go and practice law and so big we were
and I
Too have come from this environment and so you should not given me
credit merely by looking at my bio-data, because in the bio-data lot of
things are written and got interpolated and it is also at times based on
untruth.
Today if you see any importance of truth and justice, you will be
required to help and uplift all such institutions like the present one,
where truth and justice alone are practiced.
If in the land of Mahatma Gandhi who used to practice and experiment
only with the truth, we are required to debate about the very truth, it
is worthwhile thinking as to why that truth has become a subject of
debate today and not of interaction amongst people.
Article from the Yoga & Total Health Magazine of August 2010
Stress Study By Dr. Shetty
A STUDY
by Dr. Shetty
A Research was conducted in 2008 by The International Board of Yoga
entitled 'Stress Management through Yoga or Mothers of Students
appearing for Competitive Examination.' The study was conducted at an
Educational Institution of Upnagar Shikshan Mandal. The aim of the
study was to show how Yoga intervention group can manage stress better
than the non interventional group. The study was based on the concept
of 'Bhavas'.
Method
All the study mothers were randomized with the help of random number
chart to one of the study groups to receive Yoga Therapy or without Yoga
as per schedule.
A special case record form (CRF) was designed to record the demographic
profile, clinical details, results of investigations and treatment
related data. Investigators or Scientific Officer assessed all these
informations at baseline and followed up 3 and 6 months for evaluation
of efficacy.
Analysis
The collected data was tabulated, compared and analyzed statistically
using appropriate tests of statistical significance.
Results and Discussion
Demographic Profile of the population under study
In all, 108 cases, 60 in the Study Group and 48 in the Placebo group
completed the study. The mothers or guardian in both the groups were in
the age range of around 35 to 50 years with their mean age 40.75 years
in Study and 30.07 years in Placebo. Mean weight and height of the
study cases were comparable. Both the groups were comparable as there
was not statistically significant difference between the two groups on
the demographic parameters, or other demographical profile like
Educational status.
Occupation of study population, mother tongue, habits, family type,
previous yoga knowledge was comparable in both the groups and difference
was not statistically significant.
Efficacy Assessment
As evident from results a statistically significant improvement in the
nutritional parameters – weight, waist circumference, HIP / waist ratio,
total calories, carbohydrates, proteins and fats observed in study group
but in placebo change was minimal and in comparison change was
significantly more among Study mothers than Placebo. No statistically
significant among laboratory investigations and in systolic or diastolic
blood pressures were observed at baseline.
But in laboratory investigations like Lipid profile that is Total
Cholesterol, LDL, HDL, VLDL and LDL / HDL ratio had significant change
in study group as compared to placebo; only TGL did not show any change
in both the groups.
Important efficacy variable that is salivary cortisol were comparable at
baseline in both the groups, after therapy salivary cortisol levels had
significant fall of 29.1% in study and only 4.8% among placebo by
comparison fall were significantly more (p=0.05) in study than placebo
group.
It is evident from other efficacy observations mentioned in protocol
that is anxiety rating scale, proactive coping inventory, self esteem
score and WHO well being index score had significant change at the end
of six months therapy in study group and improvement was significantly
very high as compared to change in placebo group.
Conclusion
From the above-mentioned results, it may be concluded that participation
in a structured planned yoga class can lead to significant reduction in
perceived levels of anxiety, proactive coping inventory levels, self
esteem and WHO well being index in women whose child was either studying
10th or 12th class.
Recommendations
Based on the result of this research we have following recommendations:
Determining precisely the different types of problems like, anxiety,
self esteem, well being and their sources.
Performing further more details with covering good population from
different schools with the aim of determining impact of yoga on all
problems.
by Dr. Shetty
A Research was conducted in 2008 by The International Board of Yoga
entitled 'Stress Management through Yoga or Mothers of Students
appearing for Competitive Examination.' The study was conducted at an
Educational Institution of Upnagar Shikshan Mandal. The aim of the
study was to show how Yoga intervention group can manage stress better
than the non interventional group. The study was based on the concept
of 'Bhavas'.
Method
All the study mothers were randomized with the help of random number
chart to one of the study groups to receive Yoga Therapy or without Yoga
as per schedule.
A special case record form (CRF) was designed to record the demographic
profile, clinical details, results of investigations and treatment
related data. Investigators or Scientific Officer assessed all these
informations at baseline and followed up 3 and 6 months for evaluation
of efficacy.
Analysis
The collected data was tabulated, compared and analyzed statistically
using appropriate tests of statistical significance.
Results and Discussion
Demographic Profile of the population under study
In all, 108 cases, 60 in the Study Group and 48 in the Placebo group
completed the study. The mothers or guardian in both the groups were in
the age range of around 35 to 50 years with their mean age 40.75 years
in Study and 30.07 years in Placebo. Mean weight and height of the
study cases were comparable. Both the groups were comparable as there
was not statistically significant difference between the two groups on
the demographic parameters, or other demographical profile like
Educational status.
Occupation of study population, mother tongue, habits, family type,
previous yoga knowledge was comparable in both the groups and difference
was not statistically significant.
Efficacy Assessment
As evident from results a statistically significant improvement in the
nutritional parameters – weight, waist circumference, HIP / waist ratio,
total calories, carbohydrates, proteins and fats observed in study group
but in placebo change was minimal and in comparison change was
significantly more among Study mothers than Placebo. No statistically
significant among laboratory investigations and in systolic or diastolic
blood pressures were observed at baseline.
But in laboratory investigations like Lipid profile that is Total
Cholesterol, LDL, HDL, VLDL and LDL / HDL ratio had significant change
in study group as compared to placebo; only TGL did not show any change
in both the groups.
Important efficacy variable that is salivary cortisol were comparable at
baseline in both the groups, after therapy salivary cortisol levels had
significant fall of 29.1% in study and only 4.8% among placebo by
comparison fall were significantly more (p=0.05) in study than placebo
group.
It is evident from other efficacy observations mentioned in protocol
that is anxiety rating scale, proactive coping inventory, self esteem
score and WHO well being index score had significant change at the end
of six months therapy in study group and improvement was significantly
very high as compared to change in placebo group.
Conclusion
From the above-mentioned results, it may be concluded that participation
in a structured planned yoga class can lead to significant reduction in
perceived levels of anxiety, proactive coping inventory levels, self
esteem and WHO well being index in women whose child was either studying
10th or 12th class.
Recommendations
Based on the result of this research we have following recommendations:
Determining precisely the different types of problems like, anxiety,
self esteem, well being and their sources.
Performing further more details with covering good population from
different schools with the aim of determining impact of yoga on all
problems.
Article from the Yoga & Total Health Magazine of August 2010
CAN YOU MANAGE YOUR EMOTIONS
CAN YOU MANAGE YOUR EMOTIONS
- B. L. Agrawala
There is general misconception that "Yoga stands for Physical Culture",
that is, certain physical exercises like stretching, bending,
compressing etc. Also that one can keep fit by exercising one's legs,
hands, body or by making certain body movements like jumping, jogging,
walking, swimming etc.
Yoga recognizes that it is not a body, it is not a mind, it is not a
soul that we are training. "It is the man that we are training, we must
not divide him." The human body is made of a physical body, a mind and a
spirit, and the three parts are so dependent on each other that any
disturbance in one part effects the whole system.
Very often the "mental part" i.e. emotions are ignored. At the Ochsner
Clinic in New Orleans a report was published reviewing 500 consecutive
admissions to that institution – 77% of the patients were sick with one
disease, usually called "Psychoneurosis" – now known as "Psychososomatic
Illness."
Psychosomatic illness results from the circumstances of daily living.
There are people who are attacking themselves continuously with
emotional bombardments like cares, difficulties, troubles and never try
to rise above into a realm of joy and pleasure. Such people are more
prone to psychosomatic illness.
A friend of mine built a beautiful bungalow amidst natural surroundings
of Sahyadri Hill at Khandala, which was meant to be used for weekend
holidays. I drove past one summer day and I thought to myself, "That
bungalow ought to make Patel happy. So I said later, "That's a wonderful
bungalow" and Patel said "Yes, but the caretaker does not maintain it
properly. Every week I have to send my nephew to get it cleaned and keep
it fit before we plan a weekend holiday." Once I happened to take Patel
to the bungalow unplanned on a sudden visit. He hesitated but made it.
When we reached there we found that the place was kept perfectly in
order. "See how nicely the place is maintained. You need not send your
nephew in future to see it in order before you come here." And he said,
"Oh the caretaker was specially interviewed by me and recommended by my
in-laws and you know how much he costs me."
People like Patel invariably get a psychosomatic illness and when they
get it they are invalid for the rest of their lives. You can do nothing
about it.
Then there are people who keep on being too concerned about each and
everything, anxious, worrying all day about something or the other. If
there is nothing to worry about business or at home they worry about
Miss. Bela, down in the same lane. Why does she come home late? How does
she afford so many fashionable clothes or make-up? What is going to
happen to this girl? Who will marry her?
Lastly there are people who are entrapped into some type of mess ,
financial loss, domestic troubles, loss of some kith and kin.
How does this worrying bring illness? We normally suppose that "thinking
is a process that takes place in the brain only." But it is not true,
thinking involves the entire body and a number of nerve impulses
centering in the brain. Particularly it is true when an emotion colors
our thinking. Psychologist William James defines "Emotion" is a state of
mind that manifests itself as a perceptible change in the body.
It need not be told that when a man is angry, his face gets red, eyes
widen, muscles tighten up. That is the state of mind manifesting itself
by a perceptible change in the body. Most of our negative emotions
produce muscle tightness. It begins to hurt. It produces pain. Tension
is shown in the back muscles of the neck, upper end of esophagus causing
intolerable pain like ulcer, sometimes muscle spasm can occur in any
part of the colon and sometimes intestinal tract or covering of blood
vessels respond to emotional stimuli which may even cause skin diseases.
Skin reacts to anxiety, worry or disgust and the serum is actually
squeezed out through the wall of blood vessel and into the skin.
Muscle tension is just one of the symptoms in a psychosomatic illness.
Another way is the effect on endocrine system. Sometimes we start
breathing fast, heart starts beating fast and we get a little faint.
Acute fear in the mind produces these bodily changes. An impulse is sent
to adrenal glands which squeeze adrenalin into blood stream which
accelerates the heart or affects the respiratory centre in the brain and
leads to gasping and we feel like fainting.
There are other organic effects of the psychosomatic illness. If it
happens to be the blood vessels on your heart that squeeze down every
time you get excited or angry, it is dangerous.
We may find many victims of the psychosomatic disorders up and around,
in hospitals, bed ridden at home and so on.
Yoga believes that in order to prevent psychosomatic illness one must
think right. We must learn to live a better life. Learn to accept facts
of life as they are. Learn to accept adverse situations. Learn to love
people. Learn to like work. Learn to quit frequent analysis. Have a
hobby. Learn to smile. Learn to relax. Divert when confused. Develop
faith in a higher reality. Learn to solve your problem by taking right
decisions.
- B. L. Agrawala
There is general misconception that "Yoga stands for Physical Culture",
that is, certain physical exercises like stretching, bending,
compressing etc. Also that one can keep fit by exercising one's legs,
hands, body or by making certain body movements like jumping, jogging,
walking, swimming etc.
Yoga recognizes that it is not a body, it is not a mind, it is not a
soul that we are training. "It is the man that we are training, we must
not divide him." The human body is made of a physical body, a mind and a
spirit, and the three parts are so dependent on each other that any
disturbance in one part effects the whole system.
Very often the "mental part" i.e. emotions are ignored. At the Ochsner
Clinic in New Orleans a report was published reviewing 500 consecutive
admissions to that institution – 77% of the patients were sick with one
disease, usually called "Psychoneurosis" – now known as "Psychososomatic
Illness."
Psychosomatic illness results from the circumstances of daily living.
There are people who are attacking themselves continuously with
emotional bombardments like cares, difficulties, troubles and never try
to rise above into a realm of joy and pleasure. Such people are more
prone to psychosomatic illness.
A friend of mine built a beautiful bungalow amidst natural surroundings
of Sahyadri Hill at Khandala, which was meant to be used for weekend
holidays. I drove past one summer day and I thought to myself, "That
bungalow ought to make Patel happy. So I said later, "That's a wonderful
bungalow" and Patel said "Yes, but the caretaker does not maintain it
properly. Every week I have to send my nephew to get it cleaned and keep
it fit before we plan a weekend holiday." Once I happened to take Patel
to the bungalow unplanned on a sudden visit. He hesitated but made it.
When we reached there we found that the place was kept perfectly in
order. "See how nicely the place is maintained. You need not send your
nephew in future to see it in order before you come here." And he said,
"Oh the caretaker was specially interviewed by me and recommended by my
in-laws and you know how much he costs me."
People like Patel invariably get a psychosomatic illness and when they
get it they are invalid for the rest of their lives. You can do nothing
about it.
Then there are people who keep on being too concerned about each and
everything, anxious, worrying all day about something or the other. If
there is nothing to worry about business or at home they worry about
Miss. Bela, down in the same lane. Why does she come home late? How does
she afford so many fashionable clothes or make-up? What is going to
happen to this girl? Who will marry her?
Lastly there are people who are entrapped into some type of mess ,
financial loss, domestic troubles, loss of some kith and kin.
How does this worrying bring illness? We normally suppose that "thinking
is a process that takes place in the brain only." But it is not true,
thinking involves the entire body and a number of nerve impulses
centering in the brain. Particularly it is true when an emotion colors
our thinking. Psychologist William James defines "Emotion" is a state of
mind that manifests itself as a perceptible change in the body.
It need not be told that when a man is angry, his face gets red, eyes
widen, muscles tighten up. That is the state of mind manifesting itself
by a perceptible change in the body. Most of our negative emotions
produce muscle tightness. It begins to hurt. It produces pain. Tension
is shown in the back muscles of the neck, upper end of esophagus causing
intolerable pain like ulcer, sometimes muscle spasm can occur in any
part of the colon and sometimes intestinal tract or covering of blood
vessels respond to emotional stimuli which may even cause skin diseases.
Skin reacts to anxiety, worry or disgust and the serum is actually
squeezed out through the wall of blood vessel and into the skin.
Muscle tension is just one of the symptoms in a psychosomatic illness.
Another way is the effect on endocrine system. Sometimes we start
breathing fast, heart starts beating fast and we get a little faint.
Acute fear in the mind produces these bodily changes. An impulse is sent
to adrenal glands which squeeze adrenalin into blood stream which
accelerates the heart or affects the respiratory centre in the brain and
leads to gasping and we feel like fainting.
There are other organic effects of the psychosomatic illness. If it
happens to be the blood vessels on your heart that squeeze down every
time you get excited or angry, it is dangerous.
We may find many victims of the psychosomatic disorders up and around,
in hospitals, bed ridden at home and so on.
Yoga believes that in order to prevent psychosomatic illness one must
think right. We must learn to live a better life. Learn to accept facts
of life as they are. Learn to accept adverse situations. Learn to love
people. Learn to like work. Learn to quit frequent analysis. Have a
hobby. Learn to smile. Learn to relax. Divert when confused. Develop
faith in a higher reality. Learn to solve your problem by taking right
decisions.
Article from the Yoga & Total Health Magazine of August 2010
ENCOURAGEMENT Dr. Patanjali J. Yogendra
Section of Stories that Stir
ENCOURAGEMENT
Dr. Patanjali J. Yogendra
A psychology professor was invited to the home of a student. While
chatting with the family members after dinner, the student's little
sister, bubbling with excitement, ran up to the professor and showed him
the school assignment she had just completed. He took a quick look at
the sheet and noticed that not a word was spelt correctly.
However, he turned to the child and said in an encouraging tone, "This
is beautiful. The margins are nice and neat, your handwriting is so
clean and readable. "Thank you uncle" broke out the girl beaming, "I
have been working real hard on it. Next time I am going to work on my
spelling.
Criticizing someone is easy. However a little encouragement goes a long
way. Surprisingly it is equally easy to encourage someone. No, you don't
have to lie. It just involves a change in perception, a different way of
looking at things, trying to see the other person's point of view –
trying to see good.
ENCOURAGEMENT
Dr. Patanjali J. Yogendra
A psychology professor was invited to the home of a student. While
chatting with the family members after dinner, the student's little
sister, bubbling with excitement, ran up to the professor and showed him
the school assignment she had just completed. He took a quick look at
the sheet and noticed that not a word was spelt correctly.
However, he turned to the child and said in an encouraging tone, "This
is beautiful. The margins are nice and neat, your handwriting is so
clean and readable. "Thank you uncle" broke out the girl beaming, "I
have been working real hard on it. Next time I am going to work on my
spelling.
Criticizing someone is easy. However a little encouragement goes a long
way. Surprisingly it is equally easy to encourage someone. No, you don't
have to lie. It just involves a change in perception, a different way of
looking at things, trying to see the other person's point of view –
trying to see good.
Article from the Yoga & Total Health Magazine of August 2010
CARE OF THE EYES
- An interview with a Leading Ophthalmic Surgeon
It was a wet and chilly day. A middle aged man with a pleasant
appearance came to the doorstep of Institute wiping his glasses and
soaking to the skin. "Can we help you?" asked the attendant at the desk.
A mild smile, and then, "I was called today. I am Dr. Dave", said the
visitor. The person at the desk courteously led him to Shri Yogendraji,
The Founder of The Yoga institute. The bond seemed to be instantaneous
of two simple great men. After exchanging a few pleasantries an informal
discussion ensued. Shri Yogendraji in his vibrant tone said, "I came
across a book by Bates, Sight without Glasses and I became intrigued
that people did not know about the yogic way for restoring eyesight. So
I wrote down in my Yoga Personal Hygiene book how to look after the eyes
and other organs of the body by ancient methods. People were amazed to
see in our country and in other lands that there was so much that the
Yogi knew about internal cleansing and they were able to look after
their bodies perfectly well. The doctor said he was not very much
acquainted with yogic methods of eye care. We had requested the doctor
to clarify a few points which were claimed in Yoga. We inquisitively
asked the doctor whether they are valid according to modern physical
science. A question-answer session followed between the doctor and some
of the Institute's teachers.
Hansaji: We know today that therapy has advanced much in the treatment
of the eye. In Yoga we do certain fixation practices. We would like to
know from you which muscles of the eyes can be helped.
Dr. Dave: There are two types of the muscles of the eye – voluntary and
involuntary. The two sets of muscles work in a team. One set of muscles
on one side and the other on the opposite side to create a balance.
There are six voluntary muscles – up, down, both the sides and for
rotation. These muscles can be helped with the yogic practices. There
are two types of muscles in the iris also. You know that you tend to
close your eyes when there is a sudden flash of light. The iris muscle
contracts and less light penetrates through the pupil. The light comes
in parallel waves and to do reading the light waves have to be focused
at a certain point so that there is more strain in reading. The muscles
get strained and therefore it has been noticed that after 40 years many
people who do a lot of reading have to wear glasses.
Hansaji: It has been claimed that with the eye exercises a person canget
rid of the glasses. If he is middle aged or older.
Dr. Dave: Sometimes the grandfather is a pride of the grandchildren as
he is not wearing glasses whereas the younger ones are! This might be
that due to certain sclerosing of the lens the person can see better at
that point. But that does not mean that his eye is definitely better.
Also it has been claimed that the number of the glasses changes, but I
feel that many times the number of the glass which changes is due to a
physiological defect in the size of the eye ball. The corrective lens
makes the light fall on the retina at the proper angle and this
physiological handicap, I believe, cannot be rectified with the
exercises.
Mrs. Nutan: "Dr, my child had a 0.25 number and after the exercises the
number gradually vanished."
Dr. Dave: This is a very small number and perhaps fo those who have very
small numbers it can work, but I am open to claims and experiments of
Yoga teacher who says that the number can be reduced. They may come to
me for a check-up before they begin the exercises and after, and I will
examine and give my report.
Mrs. Desai: In certain yogic practices, the eye gaze is fixed on a
certain place for a long time. Would these practices be contraindicated
for any eye disorder e. g. detachment of the retina."
Dr. Dave: "In detachment of the retina there is contraindication for
jerky movements and I do not think that while you are doing your eye
practices there are any jerky movements. So these eye practices can be
done safely. A person who has a high number though should maintain
caution in doing these practices fo a long time, as too much fixation at
one point without blinking can create a strain."
Pt. Shambhunath: "If the person feels no strain and does palming after
the practices, could it be safe/"
Dr. Dave: "Yes, that is right."
Mrs Desai: "Dr. Dave, it has been noticed in yogic literature and even
Shri Yogendraji relates during his training that he had to sit in
Trataka (fixation practices) for a long time. Do you think that was
harmful?"
Dr. Dave: I am not sure and wonder how one could sit without blinking
for such a long time. But the eye might become dry when it was kept open
for a long period without blinking."
Mrs. Desai: "It has been stated that frequent blinking while reading is
good. True?"
Dr. Dave: The purpose of closing the eye is to keep it wet so that the
eye gets some relief. In a healthy body natural glands are functioning
well and the eye keeps wet normally. It is only when in certain diseases
like Trachoma or certain other condition which affects the body that the
eyes should be kept wet by the addition of certain drops."
Pt. Shambhunath: "Can certain muscles of the eye be trained?"
Dr. Dave: "Yes. Many times if a person cannot do the shoulder gazing on
a certain side till the end of the shoulder, that side may be the weaker
side. So you have to try and make him do the exercises on that side
first and then the other.
Hansaji: "It has been claimed in Yoga literature that 50% of the body is
conserved when we close eyes. Is there any scientific truth in this
statement?"
Dr. Dave: "Every time we see something the mind vibrates and starts
thinking and that makes us lose energy. So every time we close the eyes,
so much less thinking is done and the senses are less stimulated and
that conserves the energy. It has been noticed that the blind many times
have more strength because they are conserving energy as the mind is not
being visually stimulated so much.
Dr. Dave made a clear statement: "Each organ in our body has a certain
life span. As long as it is kept healthy and preserved it can give its
optimum life, just like a motor, if one looks after it well it can give
a long life."
Pt. Shambhunath: "Is there a direct relationship between good general
health and health of the eye?"
Dr. Dave: There is definitely a relationship. No part of the body works
in complete isolation and the eye being a part of the body, if the
general health of the person is maintained at an optimum level the eye
will be equally good."
Pt. Shambhunath: "Is there any value in sun gazing?"
Dr. Dave: "At sun rise and at sunset when the rays of the sun are very
mild, there is no harm if sun gazing is done, but it should not be done
when the rays are hot. When the rays are mild at sunset and sunrise the
effect on the mind too can be soothing and that has a value
psychologically to yield a feeling of quietude."
An article from the Yoga & Total Health Magazine of August 2010
Dishonesty is not the best policy - Dr. Jayadeva Yogendra
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