‘Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted.’-A sign hung in

Albert Einstein’s office.

The majority of people live on their emotions. This leads to disturbance of their body hormones, as well as to economic and mental stress, all of which create imbalance in physico-physiological, physio-psychological and psycho-neurological systems.

In yogic science, the asanas and pranayamas are particularly helpful in generating and distributing life-saving energy wherever and whenever it is needed, so that each cell in the body revibrates with sound health, satisfaction, contentment, and a composed state of attention and awareness in the brain and mind. -B.K.S. Iyengar

Yoga and ArthritisCompiled by: Trisha LambLast Revised: April 18, 2006

© 2004 by International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT)

International Association of Yoga TherapistsP.O. Box 2513 • Prescott • AZ 86302 • Phone: 928-541-0004E-mail: mail@iayt.org • URL: www.iayt.orgThe contents of this bibliography do not provide medical advice and should not be so interpreted. Before beginning anyexercise program, see your physician for clearance.

2NOTE: See also the “Fibromyalgia” bibliography.

Books/Articles

American Yoga Association. Using yoga techniques to help with arthritis. Availableonline at http://members.aol.com/amyogaassn/Onesheets/03arth.htm.

Anandamitra Acarya, Avadhutika. The joints. In Avadhutika Anandamitra Acarya, Yogafor Health: Ananda Marga Yoga Exercises. Paco, Manila, Philippines: Ananda Marga

Publications, 1988, pp. 28-29.

Angus, Carrie. Don’t let osteoarthritis get the best of you. Yoga International, Feb/Mar1998, pp. 71-73.

Arthritis: Stretching and strengthening exercises. Article available online:http://www.wholehealthmd.com/hc/arthritis/howto_stretch/1,1767,,00.html.

Atre, Jaya A. Meditation for certain ailments through a yantra. In H. R. Nagendra, R.Ragarathna, and S. Telles, Yoga Research & Applications: Proceedings of the 5th

International Conference on Frontiers in Yoga Research and Applications. Bangalore,Vivekananda Kendra Yoga Research Foundation, 2000, pp. 289-290.

Ballentine, Rudolph M., Jr., M.D. Joints and Glands Exercises: As Taught by SriSwami Rama of the Himalayas. Honesdale, Penn.: The Himalayan International Institute,1977.

Bell, Lorna, R.N., and Eudora Seyfer. Gentle Yoga: Yoga for People with Arthritis,Stroke Damage, Multiple Sclerosis, in Wheelchairs, or Anyone Who Needs a Guide toGentle Exercise. Berkeley, California: Celestial Arts, 1982, 1987.

Berman, Brian M., R. Barker Bausell, and Wen-Lin Lee. Use and referral patterns for22 complementary and alternative medical therapies by members of the american collegeof rheumatology: Results of a national survey. Archives of Internal Medicine, 8 Apr2002, 162(7):766-770.Abstract: Background: This stud y was designed to determine rheumatologists’ selfreportedknowledge, perceptions of legitimacy, referral patterns, and use in practice of 22complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies. Methods: A survey wasmailed to a random sample of 2000 physician members of the American College ofRheumatology asking respondents which (if any) CAM therapies they (1) knew enoughabout to discuss with patients, (2) considered part of “legitimate medical practice,” and(3) “personally administered” to patients, or “referred patients to someone else” toadminister. The response rate was 47%. Results: On average, the respondents reportedknowing enough to discuss 10 of the therapies with patients, considered 9 to be part oflegitimate medical practice, and had referred patients to someone else for 8 of the 22therapies. Correlates of use and/or referral included sex, age, belief in the legitimacy ofthe therapies, and self-reported knowledge. Conclusions: These results providepotentially important preliminary data regarding rheumatologists’ responses to dramaticincreases in the use of CAM therapies among their patients.

Bhajan, Yogi. Arthritis. In Alice Clagett and Elandra Kirsten Meredith, eds., Yoga forHealth and Healing: From the Teachings of Yogi Bhajan, Ph.D. Santa Monica, Calif.:Alice B. Clagett, p. 53.

Bhat, Vasanthi. Arthritis. In Vasanthi Bhat, The Power of Conscious Breathing in HathaYoga. San Jose, Calif.: Vasanthi Bhat, 1997, p. 219.

Bhole, Dr. M. V. Cervical spondylitis. In Dr. M. V. Bhole, “Therapeutic applications ofyoga techniques,” Yoga-Mimamsa, Oct-Jan, 1984-85, 23(3 & 4).

Brown, Ellen Hodgson. Arthritis as energy blockage: The perspective of yoga. In EllenHodgson Brown, Healing Joint Pain Naturally: Safe and Effective Ways to TreatArthritis, Fibromyalgia, and Other Diseases. New York: Broadway Books, 2001, pp. 55-60.

Calman, Bette, and Joan Brodie. Yoga for Arthritis. Adelaide, Australia: Rigby, 1977.

Chakravarti, Sree. Bayau mudra (for joint pains). In Sree Chakravarti, A Healer’sJourney. Portland, Ore.: Rudra Press, 1993, p. 207.

Chang, Stephen T., with Richard Miller. Arthritis, rheumatism, bursitis. In Dr. StephenT. Chang with Richard Miller, The Book of Internal Exercises. San Francisco: StrawberryHill Press, 1978, p. 131.

Christensen, Alice. The Easy Does It Yoga Trainer’s Guide. Kendall/Hunt Publishing,1995.

___________. [20-minute workout for] joint disease or injury. In Alice Christensen, 20-MinuteYoga Workouts. New York: Ballentine Books, 1995, pp. 121-122.

___________. Chapter 4: Arthritis. In Alice Christensen, The American YogaAssociation Wellness Book. New York: Kensington Books, 1996, pp. 50-57.

___________. Easy Does It Yoga. New York: Simon & Schuster, 1999.

___________. Arthritis: The Powerful Program for Greater Strength, Flexibility, andFreedom. An American Yoga Association Wellness Guide. New York: KensingtonBooks, 2001.

___________. R. A. Yoga Program 1 CD. American Yoga Association. URL:www.americanyogaassociation.org.

From the website: “Exercise often feels like an impossible dream if you have rheumatoidarthritis, yet you know that exercise will often help you feel better. Here is an easy,enjoyable Yoga routine that provides all the right moves. All of the exercises can be donein a chair, and ma ny can even be done in bed. Program 1 is for those with mild tomoderate RA, and Program 2 is for those experiencing a flare-up of symptoms.”

___________. R. A. Yoga Program 2 CD. American Yoga Association. URL:www.americanyogaassociation.org.

From the website: “Exercise often feels like an impossible dream if you have rheumatoidarthritis, yet you know that exercise will often help you feel better. Here is an easy,enjoyable Yoga routine that provides all the right moves. All of the exercises can be donein a chair, and many can even be done in bed. Program 1 is for those with mild tomoderate RA, and Program 2 is for those experiencing a flare-up of symptoms.”

Coates, Ernest. Pawanmuktasana sequence. Yoga & Health, June 1998: 11. (Reproducedfrom Ernest Coates’s Living Yoga.) (The twenty exercises in the pawanmuktasana

sequence are described as “a sequence of ‘wind ejecting’ exercises, commonly known asthe anti-rheumatic stretches, which help to keep joints mobile.”)

Cooper, Deborah. Yoga: Relaxation and relief for arthritis sufferers. Available online:http://www.arthritissupport.com/library/showarticle.cfm?ID=209.

Coudron, L., and O. Coudron. Le yoga et les troubles du systeme osteo-articulaire. AnnIlle Colloque Yoga Sante, May 1987.

Dash, M., and S. Telles. Improvement in hand grip strength in normal volunteers andrheumatoid arthritis patients following yoga training. Indian Journal of Physiology andPharmacology, Jul 2001,45(3):355-360. PMID: 11881576.Abstract: The present study aimed at assessing the effects of a set of yoga practices onnormal adults (n = 37), children (n = 86), and patients with rheumatoid arthritis (n = 20).An equal number of normal adults, children, and patients with rheumatoid arthritis whodid not practice yoga were studied under each category, forming respective controlgroups. Yoga and control group subjects were assessed at baseline and after varyingintervals, as follows, adults after 30 days, children after 10 days and patients after 15days, based on the duration of the yoga program, which they attended, which was alreadyfixed. Hand grip strength of both hands, measured with a grip dynamometer, increased innormal adults and children, and in rheumatoid arthritis patients, following yoga, but notin the corresponding control groups, showing no re-test effect. Adult female volunteersand patients showed a greater percentage improvement than corresponding adult males.This gender-based difference was not observed in children. Hence yoga practiceimproves hand grip strength in normal persons and in patients with rheumatoid arthritis,though the magnitude of improvement varies with factors such as gender and age.

Dawson, Brian. Ayurveda, Yoga and joints: A seminar for Ashram Yoga TeachersTraining Course 1998. Article available online:http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Ithaca/9012/ttcsem.htm.

Dickinson, Pauline. How I came to yoga. Yoga & Health, June 1999, p. 22.

DiMartino, Christina. Let’s do yoga: Forget “pretzel proses.” You can do yoga yourway, the gentle way, to relieve stress, improve flexibility and strengthen muscles.Arthritis Today, Jul-Aug 2002, pp. 40-45.

Dobson, Brian. Ayurveda, Yoga and joints: A seminar for Ashram Yoga TeachersTraining Course 1998. Article available online:http://www.geocities.com/Athe ns/Ithaca/9012/ttcsem.htm.

Editors of Yoga Journal. Osetoarthritis care. Yoga Journal, Sep/Oct 2000, p. 60.(Critiqued by Matt Taylor, P.T., in subsequent letter to Yoga Journal. Copy on file withYoga Research and Education Center.)

Farhi, Donna. Arthr itis. In Donna Farhi, The Breathing Book. New York: Henry Holt &Co., 1996, pp. 205-206.

FIBROMYALGIA. See the “Fibromyalgia” bibliography.

Francina, Suza. Yoga techniques to prevent or overcome arthritis. In Suza Francina, TheNew Yoga for People Over 50. Deerfield Beach, Florida: Health Communications, Inc.,1997, pp. 163-183.

Gach, Michael Reed. Morning stretches for aching joints. Yoga Journal,September/October 1989: 19-28.

Garde, R. K. Arthritis. In R. K. Garde, Principles and Practice of Yoga-Therapy.Bombay, India: D. B. Taraporevala Sons & Co., 1972, 1984, pp. 53-54.

Garfinkel, M., and H. R. Schumacher, Jr. Yoga. Rheumatic Diseases Clinics of NorthAmerica, Feb 2000, 26(1):125-132.Abstract: Yoga is an ancient tradition that has been westernized and often practiced for itsproposed health benefits. Traditional texts describe its benefits for many types of arthritis.Two limited studies of yoga in osteoarthritis of the hands and carpal tunnel syndromeshow greater improvement in pain than in control groups. Yoga uses stretching andimproves strength so that it theoretically should be beneficial for some musculoskeletalproblems. Yoga merits further study into its cellular and physiologic effects.

___________, H. R. Schumacher, Jr., A. Husain, M. Levy, and R. A. Reshetar.Evaluation of a yoga based regimen for treatment of osteoarthritis of the hands. Journalof Rheumatology, December 1994, 21(12): 2341-2343. (Abstract available from Medlinedatabase, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed.)

Goff, Karen Goldberg. Yoga: Philosophy & fitness: Getting the mind and body to workin perfect harmony. Washington Times, 27 Feb 2000, Section: Family Times, p. D1.Forty-nine-year-old Yoga practitioner Dev Kar states that he has been able to cut hisarthritis medication in half because of Yoga.

Gordon, Ellen. Arthritis alternatives: Yoga. Available online:http://www.alternatives4arthritis.com/yoga.html.

Gotthardt, Melissa. The tao of pain: Get arthritis relief by mixing Eastern and Westernmedicine. AARP, Mar/Apr 2003, p. 24.Cites research on Yoga and arthritis by Sharon Kolasinski, M.D.

Haslock, I., R. Monro, R. Nagarathna, H. R. Nagendra, and N. V. Raghuram.Measuring the effects of yoga in rheumatoid arthritis. British Journal of Rheumatology,Aug 1994, 33(8):787-788.From a review by Robert Anderson in Townsend Letter for Doctors 7 Patients, May2002, no. 226, p. 39: “Twenty volunteers with severe rheumatoid arthritis requiringdisease modifying drugs were randomized to act as controls with routine treatment or toengage in 2-hr. sessions of yoga 5 times weekly for 3 weeks followed by one 2-hr.session weekly for 3 months supplemented with daily practice at home for 10-30 minutes.Exercises included asanas, pranayama, meditation, lectures on yoga philosophy andsessions to soften the emotions. Blind assessment was accomplished at 15 months. Lefthand grip strength rose from 141 mmHG to 204 vs. controls from 137 to 145 (P < 0.02).Right hand grip strength rose from 145 to 177 vs. 137 to 142 (NS). Left ring sizeimproved (NS) and Health Assessment Questionnaire scores rose (NS).

“Comment: Some of the improvements seen here did not meet statistical significance.Left hand grip strength, however, and the improvement in right hand grip strength wasstill impressive (22%). Practices such as yoga and Tai Chi are very beneficial for patientswith arthritic changes of any kind, as well as demonstrating greater functionality foraging persons whether or not a pathological diagnosis has been made . . .”

Health Insider. Rheumatoid arthritis. Prevention.com. Available online:http://www.prevention.com/healing/living/980825.lvg2.html.

Iyengar, B. K. S. Arthritis of the lower back; Arthritis of the dorsal region; Arthritis ofthe shoulder joints; Lumbago. In B. K. S. Iyengar, Light on Yoga. Rev. ed. New York:Schocken Books, 1979, pp. 488-489; 501.

__________. Osteoarthritis (shoulders, elbows, wrists and fingers, hips, knees, ankles);Rheumatoid arthritis. In B. K. S. Iyengar, Yoga: The Path to Holistic Health.London/New York: Dorling Kindersley, 2001, pp. 306-318; 318-322.

Joseph, Joanna. Nick Duncan. Yoga Journal, September October 1988: 36-37.

Karmananda Saraswati, Dr. Swami. Arthritis. In Dr. Swami Karmananda Saraswatiunder the guidance of Swami Satyananda Saraswati, Yogic Management of CommonDiseases. Munger, Bihar, India: Bihar School of Yoga, 1983, pp. 147-155.

Keefe, Francis J., Glenn Affleck, John Lefebvre, Lynn Underwood, David S.

Caldwell, Jana Drew, Jennifer Egert, Jessica Gibson, and Kenneth Pargament.Living with rheumatoid arthritis: The role of daily spirituality and daily religious andspiritual coping. The Journal of Pain, Apr 2001, 2(2). Abstract available online at:http://www.jpain.org/scripts/om.dll/serve?action=searchDB&searchDBfor=art&artType=abs&id=a19296&nav=abs. See also brief article describing this study at:http://www.healthcentral.com/news/newsfulltext.cfm?ID=51513&src=n1.

Khanna, S. L. Rheumatism. In S. L. Khanna, Yogic Health Plan for Human Race. Delhi,India: B. Jain Publishers, 1995, p. 90.

Kin-yoga mailing list. Osteoarthritis of the knee thread. August 23-24, 2005. For Kinyogainformation, see http://listar.hi.is/mailman/listinfo/kin-yoga.

Kolasinski, S. L. Yoga for degenerative joint disease. Alternative Medicine Alert, 2001,4:28-31.

___________. Yoga for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee. Not yet published.URL: http://www.med.upenn.edu/rheum/rheum_bio_kolasinski.html.Program Summary: “Exercise has been recognized as an essential component of themanagement of patients with a variety of rheumatic diseases. Previous work hasdemonstrated that exercise can reduce the pain and disability of osteoarthritis, butcompliance with exercise programs can be difficult to maintain. Our preliminary workhas suggested that yoga has benefits in osteoarthritis management and we are continuingour investigations into the potential mechanisms that may be involved, including analysisof gait.”

According to an article in the Mar/Apr 2003 issue of AARP magazine, this preliminarystudy found that two months of yoga cut pain by 50 percent among patients with kneeosteoarthritis.

Kraftsow, Gary. Chapter 3: Common aches and pains. In Gary Kraftsow, Yoga forWellness: Healing with the Timeless Teachings of Viniyoga. New York: Penquin/Arkana,1999, pp. 135-201.

Kumar, Surendar. Yogic Cure for Rheumatic Arthritis (Jodon Ka Dard). Delhi, India:Books for All, n.d. Available from Nataraj Books, 7073 Brookfield Plaza, Springfield,VA 22150, 703-455-4996. (48-page booklet)

La Cava, Lyn. Arthritis relief from the East. DrKoop.com, 3 Nov 2000. Availableonline: http://www.drkoop.com/conditions/arthritis/library/arthritis_reliefeast.html.

Lakshmi, K. Vidya. Physiotherapy and yoga therapy for osteo-arthritis. In H. R.Nagendra, R. Ragarathna, and S. Te lles, Yoga Research & Applications: Proceedings ofthe 5th International Conference on Frontiers in Yoga Research and Applications.Bangalore, Vivekananda Kendra Yoga Research Foundation, 2000, pp. 230-232.

Lawrence, Ronald Lawrence, and Martin Zucker. Yoga section. In Ronald M.Lawrence, M.D., and Martin Zucker. Preventing Arthritis: A Holistic Approach to Lifewithout Pain. New York: G. P. Putnam’s Sons, 2001.

Letters to the editor. Time, 30 Dec 2002 – 6 Jan 2003.Three out of the seven letters written in response to Time’s 9 Dec 2002 cover story onarthritis state that Yoga has helped in their recovery, and a fourth, written by Yogateacher and postural alignment expert Jean Couch (author of The Runner’s Yoga Book)attributes much of arthritic degeneration to our cultural tendency toward curved, slouchedposture.

Macintosh, Sarah. Teaching tips: Aches & pains in yoga. Yoga & Health, Nov 1999, p.

Mamtora, P. S., M.D. Yoga for Back and Joint Disorders. Santacruz, Mumbai, India:Dr. Jayadeva Yogendra for The Yoga Institute, 1997.

Mehta, K. K. Nature cure for arthritis: Yoga therapy. Available online atwww.healthlibrary.com/reading/arthriti/yoga.htm.

Mehta, Silva, Mira Mehta, and Shyam Mehta. Arthritis and rheumatic conditions. InSilva, Mira, and Shyam Mehta, Yoga: The Iyengar Way. New York: Alfred A. Knopf,1992, p. 185.

Mishra, J. P. N. Arthritis. In J. P. N Mishra, Preksha Yoga Management for CommonAilments. New Delhi, India: B. Jain Publishers, 1999, pp. 197-199.

Monro, R., R. Nagarathna, and I. Haslock. Controlled trials on the use of yoga forrheumatoid diseases. Journal Rheum., Nov 1992.

___________, R. Nagarathna, and H. R. Nagendra. Rheumatism and arthritis. In R.

Monro, R. Nagarathna, and H. R. Nagendra, Yoga for Common Ailments. NewYork/London: Simon & Schuster, 1990, pp. 48-51. (Includes information on rheumatoidarthritis, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, and ankylosing spondylitis.)

Moore, Marcia, and Mark Douglas. Arthritis. In Marcia Moore and Mark Douglas,Diet, Sex, and Yoga. York, Maine: Arcane Publications, 1966, 1970, pp. 244-245.

Moorhead, Mary B. Try yoga to relieve pain of arthritis. Contra Costa Times, 13 Jul2002. Article available online:http://www.bayarea.com/mld/bayarea/entertainment/columnists/3655668.htm.

Motiwala, Sam N., and Rajvi H. Mehta. Treating chronic ailments with yoga: Cervicalspondylosis. Yoga Rahasya, 1996, 3(2):29-37.

Murphy, Erin. Therapeutic yoga. Yoga Journal, November/December 1988: 79-86.

Muzumdar, S. Lumbago; Rheumatism. In S. Muzumdar, Healthy Middle-Age ThroughYoga. Bombay, India: Jaico Publishing, 1960, 1993, p. 160.

Nagendra, H. R., and S. Telles. [Yoga research] parameters to be recorded for specificdiseases: Rehumatoid arthritis. In H. R. Nagendra and S. Telles, Research Methods.Bangalore, India: Vivekananda Kendra Yoga Prakashan, 1995, pp. 35-37, 41.

Padus, Emrika. Yoga for arthritis. Prevention, June 1977, pp. 89 ff.

Payne, Larry, and Richard Usatine. The musculoskeletal system: Back, knees, arthritis.In Larry Payne and Richard Usatine, Yoga Rx: A Step-by-Step Program to PromoteHealth, Wellness, and Healing for Common Ailments. New York: Broadway Books,2002, pp. 97-150.

Proof that meditation matters. Arthritis Today, March/April 1999, 13(2):22.

Quail, Marie. [Gives advice for a student with an arthritic hip.] Yoga BiomedicalBulletin, Spring 1997, no. 34, p. 4.

___________, and Ruth Gilmore. Yoga for Arthritis audiotape. Available online:http://freespace.virgin.net/yogabio.med/ (click on “Products,” then “Audiotapes”).

Rajesh, M. Yoga therapy for cancer, back pain, arthritis, headache, diabetes, and IHD.Vivekananda Kendra Yoga Research Foundation, 1991.

___________. Integrated approach of yoga therapy for cancer, IHD, back pain, arthritis &diabetes mellitus. Bangalore, India: Vivekananda Yoga Kendra Prakashana, 1992.

Raman, Krishna. Arthritis; Gout. In Krishna Raman, M.D., A Matter of Health:Integration of Yoga and Western Medicine for Prevention and Cure. Chennai (Madras),India: Eastwest Books (Madras) Pvt. Ltd., 1998, pp. 466-477, 482; 481. (See also thesections entitled “Immune System” and “The Joints, Muscles and Bones” in the chapterentitled “The Growing Years, the Aged and Yoga” and the section on arthralgia inwomen, pp. 142-143.)

Ranade, Subhash, and Sunanda Ranade. Arthritis. In Subhash Ranade and SunandaRanade, Ayurveda and Yoga Therapy. Pune, India: Anmol Prakashan, 1995, pp. 13-17.

Ravishankar, N. S. Arthritis; Gout; Rheumatic fever. In N. S. Ravishankar, Yoga forHealth: Curative Powers of Yogasanas. New Delhi: Pustak Mahal, 2001, pp. 136-137;150; 166.

Reeves, Ute. Post on rheumatoid arthrisits to KIN-Yoga mailing list 12 Oct 2002.“I have rheumatoid arthritis. I am doing quite well using an alternative treatmentprotocol—see www.rheumatic.org, which saves me from taking the heavy-duty drugs.It’s been a while since I had a flare-up, but I have a few hints concerning yoga.“It is advised to not do weight-bearing exercises on an inflamed joint.“Gentle joint opening exercises and range of motion movements are important. Duringserious flare-ups it is even advised to have someone passively move the joints to not loserange of motion. I’m not suggesting that yoga teachers do that, I just want to stress howimportant the range of motion part is, because it gets lost fast.“I have worked as yoga teacher (teaching 6-10 classes per week) even through somenasty flare-ups and can tell you that this has been my saving grace. Often I would havepreferred not to move at all because of the pain but did it because of my commitment tomy students and every time I felt better after yoga class than before.“Hot bath before class (that infra-red sauna sounds great!) helped and after it lots of iceon the inflamed joints. I would start a couple hours before class to be ready for it. I wouldalso splint or wrap flaring joints . . .“Then I am modeling to my students how to take care of my body by modifyingposes to my needs, while I am assisting them in doing the poses to their capacities. Itworks very well.“Rheumatoid arthritis can involve any joint (there are joints I never knew existed untilthey flared up) but frequently hands, wrists, shoulders, hips, knees, ankles, feet areinvolved. Modifications are needed to avoid weight bearing on the inflamed joint.

“Fatigue is a component of the disease, so restorative poses, shavasana, meditation canhelp. I don’t know if you get into it in your class, but diet is important. A sattvic diethelps and paying attention if any specific food causes a flare-up.”

Richmond, Sonya. Lumbago and sciatica; Arthritis and rheumatism. In SonyaRichmond, How to be Healthy with Yoga. New York: Bell Publishing, 1962, pp. 70-80;97-101.

Rothenberg, Robin. Therapeutic Yoga 101: A course in self-acceptance. InternationalJournal of Yoga Therapy, 2004, no. 14, pp. 29-34. Author email: info@yogabarn.com.Abstract: This article is a personal essay describing the methodology for and orientationto teaching therapeutic Yoga in a mixed milieu. Many of the students have complexconditions such as multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, orchronic fatigue. Others have suffered structural trauma from car accidents and arecontending with soft tissue injury and disc compression. In spite of the irrefutablechallenge of addressing these various conditions simultaneously, years of working in thisfield has convinced the author that not only is it possible to do so, but it is highlyrewarding for both the students and the teacher. It is the author’s hope that by sharing herexperience it will encourage other therapists to move beyond the container of a specific

pathology and reunite body, mind, and spirit in a healing, communal environment.

Ryder, Genevieve. Osteoarthritis of knee and hip. Structural Yoga Therapy ResearchPaper, Sep 2003. Author email: Ayurveda@comcast.net.

Sarkar, Shrii Prabhat Ranjan. Rheumatism. In Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar, YogicTreatments and Natural Remedies. 3d ed. Calcutta, India: Ananda Marga Publications,1993, pp. 43-45.

Schatz, Mary Pullig, M.D. Yoga relief for arthritis: A pathologist and yoga teacheroffers comprehensive guidelines for restoring and maintaining joint health. Yoga Journal,May/Jun 1985.

___________. Yoga for arthritis. Yoga Journal, November/December 1997: 30.

___________. Yoga relief for arthritis. Yoga Journal, May/June 1985.

Schlorholtz, John. Ageless Yoga: Joint Freedom Standing & Chair Routines video. 30minutes. Available for purchase online:http://www.yoga.com/store/product.asp?Product_ID=2881.“John Schlorholtz is the principle yoga instructor for Harvard University’s Center forWellness. In this video, he shares yoga for people of all ages and types and those withinjury and illness. Lubricates, strengthens, and creates space in all the major joints. Goodfor arthritis, poor circulation, and preparing for or recovering from surgery.”

Shah, J. T. Arthritis. In J. T. Shah, Therapeutic Yoga. Mumbai, India: Vakils, Feffer andSimons Ltd., 1999, pp. xviii, 2-7, 12-17, 20-23, 32-37, 42-45, 48-51, 54-55, 58-59, 66-75,80-91.

Shivananda Saraswati, Srimat Swami. Arthritis; Rheumatism. In Srimat SwamiShivananda Saraswati, Yogic Therapy or Yogic Way to Cure Diseases. 7th ed. UmachalSeries no. 10. Guwahati, Assam: Shivananda Math, 1994, pp. 79-81; 302-306.

Silva, Mira, and Shyam Mehta. Arthritis. In Mira Silva and Shyam Mehta, Yoga: TheIyengar Way. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 1992, p. 185.

Singh, R. H., R. M. Shettiwar, and K. N. Udupa. Physiological and therapeutic studieson yoga. The Yoga Review, Winter 1982, II(4): (sections on rheumatoid arthritis) 196,199, 202, 204.

___________. Role of some hathayogic practices in the management of chronicrheumatic diseases. In Proceedings of the IX National Seminar on Rheumatic Disease,MML Centre for Rheumatic Disease, New Delhi, India, 1978.

Sinha, Phulgendra. Arthritis: Inflammation of joints. In Phulgendra Sinha, Yogic Curefor Common Diseases. New Delhi, India: Orient Paperbacks, 1980. Rev., enl., pp. 98-114. Available from Nataraj Books, 7073 Brookfield Plaza, Springfield, VA 22150, 703-455-4996.

Stacle, Mary. A house divided: Alienated from a body crippled with arthritis, one

woman finds her way home to wholeness through yoga. Yoga Journal,November/December 1997: 26-31, 156.

STATISTICS. Lawrence, R.C., C. K. Helmick, F. C. Arnett, R. A. Deyo, D. T. Felson,E. H. Giannini, S. P. Heyse, R. Hirsch, M. C. Hochberg, G. G. Hunder, M. H. Liang, S.R. Pillemer, V. D. Steen, and F. Wolfe. Estimates of the prevalence of arthritis andselected musculoskeletal disorders in the United States. Arthritis and Rheumatism, 1998,41:778-799.

Stewart, Mary. Arthritis. In Mary Stewart, Teach Yourself Yoga. Lincolnwood(Chicago), Ill.: NTC/Contemporary Publishing/London: Hodder Headline, 1998, pp. 128-129.

Stiles, M. Tom. Yoga therapy for shoulders. Yoga International, August/September1996: 77-80.

Stott, Sharon. Arthritis. In Sharon Stott, “Sarvangasana (shoulderstand) or candle pose,”Yoga & Health, Dec 1997, p. 21. (On contraindications for sarvangasana.)

Sukshma Vyayama. Available online:http://www.yogamedicine.com/sukshmavyayama.html.

Taylor, Matthew. Osteoarthritis. Available online:http://yogatherapy.com/examples.html.

Udupa, K. N. Stress and arthritis. In K. N. Udupa, Stress and Its Management by Yoga.Delhi, India: Motilal Banarsidass, 1985. 2d ed., pp. 321-325.“. . . we have treated nearly 50 cases of rheumatoid arthritis of various jointsincluding those of the spine with uniformly good results in almost all the cases within aperiod of six months . . . “

Weller, Stella. Arthritis (includes rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosingspondylitis, and gout); Autoimmune sisorders (includes arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis,lupus, and scleroderma); Immune system disorders (includes rheumatoid arthritis andlupus). In Stella Weller, Yoga Therapy. London: Thorsons, 1995, pp. 90-91; 92; 111-112.

White, Carrie. Some arthritis sufferers find yoga and diet can offer nonpharmaceuticalcomfort. East Valley Tribune (Scottsdale, Arizona), 3 Feb 2005.“Scottsdale rheumatologist Paul Howard doesn’t believe pharmaceuticals, by themselves,are the best way for people with arthritis to get better.“Rather, Howard sees treatment for the disease—joint inflammation affecting nearly 70million Americans—as involving a combination of exercise, supplementation, diet and, ifneeded, weight loss. His patients bear out his approach.“Peggy McKee, 76, of Scottsdale first visited Howard’s office three years ago with anarthritis flare-up shortly after the death of her husband and a daughter. McKee, whosuffers from rheumatoid arthritis, received a prescription for yoga. ‘I sometimes wonderif I still have arthritis,’ McKee says with a chuckle. McKee, who attends yoga class twicea week at a studio set up by Howard for arthritis patients, says the gent le form ofstretching ‘has done wonders for me. I don’t take nearly the amount of medication I usedto.’

“Winifred Doane, 75, received a prescription for yoga after Synvisc injections in the kneefailed to help her osteoarthritis. ‘Yoga remade my whole life,’ says Doane, who attendsyoga class twice a week at Arthritis Health in Scottsdale. Not only has her physical healthimproved, she says, but her mental well-being has, too. The Arizona State Universityprofessor emeritus is completely off medications, with the exception of glucosamine withMSM. And her bone density is back to normal after a diagnosis of osteopenia, a precursorto osteoporosis.

“Ginnie Livingston, a certified yoga therapist, oversees five levels of yoga at ArthritisHealth. Livingston, a faculty assistant at ASU’s College of Nursing, says the hugechanges she sees yoga making in the lives of arthritis patients is inspiring. She sees yogaas a great alternative or adjunct to pharmaceuticals as it does not mask symptoms butincreases balance and strength and elevates mood.“‘It really improves quality of life,’ she says . . .”

Widdowson, Rosalind. Rheumatism and arthritis. In Rosalind Widdowson, The Joy ofYoga. Garden City, N.Y.: Do ubleday and Co., 1983, pp. 61-63.

Yocum, D.E., W. L. Castro, and M. Cornett. Exercise, education, and behavioralmodification as alternative therapy for pain and stress in rheumatic disease. RheumaticDiseases Clinics of North American, Feb 2000, 26(1): 145-159, x-xi. MEDLINE®PMID: 0010680202.Abstract: Stress and pain mechanisms are complex and share many central nervoussystem pathways. Both are critical issues for patients with rheumatoid arthritis and otherconnective tissue diseases. The link between stress and neuroendoimmune functionsuggests that alternative therapies focusing on improved psychologic and metabolicfunction could significantly change patients’ pain outcomes. Programs using alternativetherapies such as tai chi and meditation in combination with traditional medicationsappear to be beneficial for patients with arthritis. These individuals appear to live betterlives and may have better long-term outcomes.

Yoga Biomedical Trust Survey. Statistics on arthritis and rheumatism and Yoga.Number of cases: 589; percent claiming benefit: 90%. See: http://urt.org/recovery.html.

___________. Arthritis classes. URL: http://freespace.virgin.net/yogabio.med/ (click on“Yoga Therapy & How to Try It,” then click on “Index-Alphabetical,” then click on“Arthritis”).

The Yoga for Health Foundation. Yoga for Arthritis classes. For more information,contact: The Yoga for Health Foundation, Ickwell Bury, Ickwell Green, Biggleswade,Beds. SG18 9EF, Great Britain, tel: 01767 627261, fax: 627266, URL:http://www.yogaforhealthfoundation.co.uk/remedialyoga.ht m#arthritis.

Videotapes and Audiotapes

Adams, Jenni. Befriend Your Arthritis audiotape. Torquay, Devon: Mind Your BodyCassettes. (Address: 5 Thurlow Road, Torquay, Devon TQ1 3DZ, England)

Focuses on “legs, hips, neck, wrists, shoulders and balance. Includes fourteen postures,two link movements, pranayama (expansion and awareness of breath), deep relaxation

and visualization.”

Crotzer, Shoosh. Yoga for MS and Related Conditions video (previously titled PathwaysExercise Video for People with Limited Mobility). Mobility Limited. 48 minutes. URL:http://www.mobilityltd.com/pathways.htm, tel.: 800-366-6038, 805-772-9253.This tape is for “anyone with limited mobility, including those with: multiple sclerosis,mild arthritis, chronic illness or pain, post-polio syndrome, chronic fatigue, . . . seniorsand anyone with daily stresses, as well as people who are overweight or temporarilylimited.” Comes with a 56-page instruction guidebook.

Sidelman, Shelley. Yogability and You video or DVD. 60 minutes. URL:www.yogabilityandyou.com.From the website: “Shelley’s approach to yoga combines soft and gentle stretchingexercises (no pretzel postures!) with simple breathing and relaxation techniques. It is boththerapeutic and rehabilitative, as well as ‘heart healty’ and helps to gentle some of thetumbling thoughts that clutter your mind.“Whether you have multiple sclerosis, arthritis, Parkinson’s, or fibromyalgia or you arerecovering from an illness, accident or surgery, Yogability and You is designedspecifically to enable you to reduce pain, increase circulation, and improve flexibility.”

Yogic Sciences Research Foundation. Flexibility (anti-rheumatoid) video. EastLansing, Mich.: Yogic Sciences Research Foundation. Email: reschbach@yahoo.com,URL: http://www.geocities.com/yoga20012002/products.html.

Of Related InterestDavis, Mary C., Alex J. Zautra, John W. Reich. Vulnerability to stress among womenin chronic pain from fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis. Annals of Behavioral Medicine, Aug2001, 23(3):215-226.Abstract: In two investigations, we studied vulnerability to the negative effects of stressamong women in chronic pain from 2 types of musculoskeletal illnesses, fibromyalgiasyndrome (FMS) and osteoarthritis (OA). In Study 1, there were 101 fema le participants50 to 78 years old: 50 had FMS, 29 had OA knee pain and were scheduled for kneesurgery, and 22 had OA but were not planning surgery. Cross-sectional analyses showedthat the three groups were comparable on demographic variables, personality attributes,negative affect, active coping, and perceived social support. As expected, FMS and OAsurgery women reported similar levels of bodily pain, and both groups scored higher thanOA nonsurgery women. However, women with FMS reported poorer emotio nal andphysical health, lower positive affect, a poorer quality social milieu, and more frequentuse of avoidant coping with pain than did both groups of women with OA. Moreover, theperception and use of social support were closely tied to perceived social stress onlyamong the FMS group. In Study 2, we experimentally manipulated negative mood andstress in 41 women 37 to 74 years old: 20 women had FMS, and 21 women had OA.Participants from each group were randomly assigned to either a negative mood inductionor a neutral mood (control) condition, and then all participants discussed a stressfulinterpersonal event for 30 min. Stress-related increases in pain were exacerbated bynegative mood induction among women with FMS but not women with OA, and painduring stress was associated with decreases in positive affect in women with FMS but notwomen with OA. These findings suggest that among women with chronic pain, thosewith FMS may be particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of social stress. Theyhave fewer positive affective resources, use less effective pain-coping strategies, and

have more constrained social networks than their counterparts with OA, particularly thosewho experience similar levels of pain. They also seem to experience more prolongedstress-related increases in pain under certain circumstances, all of which may contributeto a lowering of positive affect and increased stress reactivity over time.

Ezzo, Jeannette, Victoria Hadhazy, Stephen Birch, Lixing Lao, Gary Kaplan, MarcHochberg, and Brian Berman. Acupuncture for osteoarthritis of the knee: A systematicreview. Arthritis and Rheumatism, Apr 2001, 44(4):819-825.From a review at HealthCentral.com: “Ezzo and her colleagues looked at seven studiesincluding nearly 400 patients with knee arthritis, one of the most common sites for thejoint disorder. Although the investigators deemed only three trials to be of ‘high quality,’they found that those studies’ results were strong enough to suggest acupuncture providesat least short-term relief from knee pain. The three studies compared ‘sham’ acupunctureto ‘real’ acupuncture. Two of the studies compared acupuncture with physical therapyand showed no advantage of one over the other.“Acupuncture was first practiced in China more than 2,000 years ago. According totraditional theory, the human body has thousands of acupuncture points along pathwayscalled meridians, and these pathways conduct energy throughout the body. Acupunctureis believed to keep this energy flow moving smoothly. Alternatively, some Westernscientists speculate that the needle therapy helps release certain pain-killing chemicalsfrom the central nervous system.

“According to the Arthritis Foundation in Atlanta, there is enough evidence to suggestacupuncture relieves pain for some arthritis sufferers. It has proven least effective againstimmune system- related arthritic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.”

Ivanhoe Newswire. Exercise helps arthritis. Winter Park, Fl.: Ivanhoe Broadcast News,19 Aug 2002. For more information on this article, contact Peggy Nigh, University ofMissouri, Dept. of Physical Therapy, 106 Lewis Hall, Columbia, MO 65211, email:nighm@health.Missouri.edu, URL: http://www.hsc.Missouri.edu/~arthritis/index.html.

“Marilyn Bagnell learned [the] lesson when she joined [physical therapist Marian]Minor’s research program at age 75 with osteoarthritis. She says, ‘I happened into it byaccident and I found out how much good it does me. I find if I miss a class I haveproblems with stiffness, so isn’t that an incentive to keep going?’

“Different exercises seem to help different pain. For example, strengthening the legs canhelp pain from knee arthritis. Exercise in warm water reduces stiffness from rheumatoidarthritis and aerobic exercise reduces joint swelling.

“Minor says, ‘Just knowing a few general exercises to do and how to do them can make ahuge difference in your function and your comfort.’

“It made all the difference in Bagnell’s life. It improved the arthritis in her hands. ‘In twoweeks, I doubled my time at the organ to 30 minutes and now I can play as long as I wantto,’ she says.

“It also increased her energy. Now, there’s no stopping her.”

LeBovidge, Jennifer Soriano, John V. Lavigne, and Michael L. Miller. Adjustment to

chronic arthritis of childhood: The roles of illness-related stress and attitude towardillness. Journal of Pediatric Psychology, 2005 30(3):273-286. Author email:jennifer.lebovidge@childrens.harvard.edu.

Abstract: Objective: To examine the relationship of psychosocial stress and attitudetoward illness to psychological adjustment among youth with chronic arthritis. Methods:Seventy-five youths withchronic arthritis aged 8-18 years were administered a semistructuredinterview assessing illness-related and nonillness-related stressors in importantlife domains. Children also completed measures of attitude toward illness, depressivesymptoms, and anxiety. Parents completed a measure of child psychosocial adjustment.Results: Higher levels of illness-related and nonillness-related stress were associated withhigher levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms and parent-reported adjustmentproblems, while a more positive attitude toward illness was associated with lower levelsof anxiety and depressive symptoms. Attitude toward illness moderated the relationshipbetween stress and depressive symptoms. Conclusions: Results suggest the importance ofassessing life stress and attitude toward illness among youth with arthritis and developinginterventions to help children cope with arthritis-related stressors and promote a morepositive attitude toward illness.

Lumsden, D. B. Tai chi exercises improve strength, range of motion in osteoarthritispatients. Modern Medicine, Apr 1998, 66(4):23.

Pennix, Brenda W. J. H., Stephen P. Messier, W. Jack Rejeski, Jeff D. Williamson,

Mauro DiBari, Chiara Cavazzini, William B. Applegate, and Marco Pahor. Physicalexercise and the prevention of disability in Activities of Daily Living in older personswith osteoarthritis. Archives of Internal Medicine, 22 Oct 2001, 161(19):2309-2316.Author email: bpennix@wfubmc.edu.

Conclusion: Aerobic [walking] and resistance exercise may reduce the incidence of ADLdisability in older persons with knee osteoarthritis. Exercise may be an effective strategyfor preventing ADL disability and, consequently, may prolong older persons’ autonomy.

Reuters Health. Acupuncture shown to reduce arthritis pain. 23 Feb 2001. Availableonline: http;//www.healthcentral.com/news/newsfulltext.cfm?ID=48920&src=n1.

Reuters Health. Tai Chi may ease arthritis pain in elderly. 20 Mar 2001. Availableonline: http://www.healthcentral.com/news/newsfulltext.cfm?ID=50064&src=n1.“Elderly people with painful arthritis may find relief in an ancient Chinese exercise thatcombines slow movement with meditation, preliminary study findings suggest.”

___________. Aging US population increasing arthritis burden. 3 May 2001. Availableonline: http://www.healthcentral.com/news/newsfulltext.cfm?ID=52381&src=n1.

“An estimated 43.1 million Americans of all ages report having arthritis, and of those anestimated 7.8 million report that arthritis limits their daily activities in some way,according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia .

. . The data, from 1997, also indicate that the number of people with arthritis hasincreased by 750,000 people per year since 1990, and the CDC predicts that by 2020,

11.6 million Americans will be limited by arthritis. The federal agency reports the figuresin the May 4th issue of the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.”

Suttona, A. J., K. R. Muirb, S. Mockettc, and P. Fentemd. A case-control study toinvestigate the relation between low and moderate levels of physical activity andosteoarthritis of the knee using data collected as part of the Allied Dunbar NationalFitness Survey. Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, Aug 2001, 60:756-764.Correspondence to: ajs22@le.ac.uk.

BACKGROUND: Physical activity is being recommended as an intervention forseemingly almost universal improvements to health. A potential concern with thisrecommendation for increased exercise is that some believe increased levels of activitymay lead to increased incidence of osteoarthritis of the knee (knee OA), as a result ofaccelerated “wear and tear” of the major joints.OBJECTIVE: To investigate the hypothesis that the occurrence of knee OA may berelated to the duration of participation in some forms of sport and active recreation.METHODS: The relation between habitual exercise, reported by a cross section of peoplesurveyed in England, and self reported knee OA was investigated. Data were derivedfrom the Allied Dunbar National Fitness Survey (1990-91). A matched retrospectivecase-control design was used and a new exposure classification system which categorizeddifferent grades of activities for different time periods for each subject’s lifetimeparticipation in regular physical activities was developed. Additional data on kneeinjuries sustained and bodily composition were also included in a multivariate analysis.RESULTS: From 4316 people originally interviewed, 216 eligible cases (66 men, 150women) were identified (mean age 57.1). Each case was matched to four controls. When habitual sport/exercise participation were examined during a subject’s life, only exposureto regular long walks and being physically active between the ages of 20 and 24suggested any association with developing knee OA later in life. The only strongassociation found was a greatly increased risk of knee OA having previously sustained aknee injury (p<0.01, odds ratio 8.0 (95% confidence interval 2.0 to 32.0)).

CONCLUSIONS: There was little evidence to suggest that increased levels of regularphysical activity throughout life lead to an increased risk of knee OA later in life.Previous knee injury was associated with an increased risk of knee OA. Additionally,most injuries were caused through participation in physical activities. Hence, whendeciding on participation in activities, it is worth taking the likelihood of joint injury intoconsideration, as the chance of injury is greater in some activities than others.

Tetley, Michael. Instinctive sleeping and resting postures: An anthropological andzoological approach to treatment of low back and joint pain. British Medical Journal, 23-30 Dec 2000, 321:1616-1618.

Ongoing ResearchArthur J. Barsky, M.D.Professor of PsychiatryBrigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School75 Francis StBoston, MA 02115617/732-5236Investigating relaxation response, somatic style, and rheumatoid arthritis. Funded by NIH

(NIAMSD).

Measuring the power of positive outlooks. Ongoing research at the University ofWisconsin-Madison on the science of emotions. For details, see:http://www.news.wisc.edu/packages/emotion/.“Diagnosis with a serious illness can be overwhelming, but some people make aremarkable adjustment and manage to sustain a positive outlook and a sense ofpsychological well-being. This study compares symptoms and physiology in women withtwo debilitating conditions, fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis, with the goal ofdetermining the benefits of maintaining a positive emotional outlook. In a second phaseof the study, half the women in each group will be taught a special type of meditation.Differences will be compared between the two groups in pain sensitivity, immuneresponse and measures of psychological health.”

SECTION 3 : MEDICAL APPLICATIONS OF YOGA3.1 KEYNOTE ADDRESSYOGA IN HEALTH AND DISEASEDr Nagarathna R, Dr Nagendra H R, Dr Telles SVivekananda Kendra Yoga Research Foundation, Bangalore.ABSTRACTTo date large number of publications are available studying various aspects of yoga in health anddisease. Self-rated hostility and depression (Schmaling et al. 1997) and higher degree of frustratingsituations in their life (Berezin et al. 1997) were found to be associated with decreased pulmonaryfunction, blood immunoglobulin levels and clinical state of the disease. Khalsa et al (1996) tried theefficacy of a specific yoga breathing pattern on 8 subjects with obsessive compulsive disorder withsignificant improvement on OCD, as measured by anxiety and global severity indices. Several otherstudies (Sahay et al 1986, Jain et al 1993) have shown the beneficial effects of yoga in NIDDMthrough reduction in hyperglycemia and the need for oral hypoglycemic agents. Role of yoga inmechanical back pain, carpel tunnel syndrome, cervical spondylosis, fibromyalgia and chronic painhave been studied by many workers. The role of yoga in rehabilitation, promotion of positive healthat physical, mental, emotional and spiritual levels have been reviewed by my colleague by Dr.Malathi in the session on other applications of yoga.The modern medical system has replaced almost all the traditional systems of medicine in differentparts of this globe because of its rational basis. It has proved itself most effective in saving manfrom the fatal hands of contagious andinfectious diseases. However, rapidly increasing incidence ofstress related ailments is posing a great challenge to the modern medical system . It is here thatYoga appears to make a vital contribution to the modern medical system.CONCEPT OF HEALTH AND YOGAAccording to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the state of Health is defined as a state ofcomplete physical, mental and social well being and not merely an absence of disease or infirmity.WHO also suggests a fourth dimension i.e. "spiritual well being". It is clear from this definition thathealth and ill-health are not two discrete entities as commonly understood but it is conceived as acontinuous function indicating the state of well being In the diagram (fig 1), the lower quadrant,'health', represents what we normally designate as 'sickness'. Below this level, man acts instinctivelyand is akin to an animal. The first quadrant, the region marked as 'normal man', indicates the state

of normal health. As he moves along the line further up, he becomes healthier, featured by manydormant faculties expressing more vividly. This is shown as the region of'superman'. In this stage,the limitations of normal man, namely, the strong urges of thirst, hunger, fear and sex are reducedgreatly and are fully under control. According to the concept of Sri Aurobindo, the new faculties ofdeeper perceptions of the world beyond the five senses emerge in this phase of superhumanexistence. Further, growth leads man to unfold the deeper layers of consciousness and widen thespectrum of his knowledge to move towards divinity or perfection. Yoga is a systematic consciousprocess for accelerating the growth of a human being from his animal level towards the ultimatestate of divinity (Swami Vivekananda). It is a systematic methodology for an all-round personalitydevelopment i.e. physical, mental, intellectual, emotional and spiritual components of man. Thus,Yoga in its general methodology for the growth of man towards divine heights includes techniquesuseful for therapeutic applications in making man healthier.According to the tradition of Yoga and Upanishads, man has five bodies or kosas (sheaths) which isgraphically represented in fig 2. The first and the grossest, the physical body, is called "Annamayakosa". The next subtler body is the Pranamaya kosa featured by the predominance of prana, the lifeprinciple. Controversies apart, Kirlian photography triggered the interest of a large number ofscientists and technologists all over the world. The scientific study of the Human Aura by Tart,delineates the following aspects of the human aura; the physical aura, psychological aura, psychicalaura and the projected aura. Manomaya Kosa or the psychical body is responsible for the functionsof mind, namely perception, analysis, memory and also the emotions. The Vijnanamaya kosacharacterised by discrimination and a capacity to judge, is aimed at channelising human behaviortowards perfect health, in tune with nature. In the Anandamaya state, man is established in perfectharmony and balance of all his faculties and is featured by total mastery, bliss and freedom fromfear.YOGIC CONCEPT OF ILLNESSESThe root cause of Stress induced ailments is the imbalance at the Manomaya Kosa. Amplified likesand dislikes at the manomaya kosa results in distressful emotional surges called 'Aadhi'. The lifestyle gets disturbed because of long standing uncontrolled surges of stressful reactions like intensedesire (Kama), anger (Krodha), fear (Bhaya), jealousy (Matsarya) etc., These agitations cause violent

fluctuations in the flow of prana in the 'nadis' which are said to be the channels distributed all overthe body through their branching system. Each and every cell in the body, the components ofannamaya kosa, requires right quota of its pranic energy to carry on its biochemical processes in anefficient way. The example is that of uninterrupted power supply necessary for every electricalgadget in right quantities. Just as these equipments would fail if there is any irregularity in thepower supply, human organ systems fail to function if they do not get the right quantum of prana.Thus the disturbances in the Manomaya kosa percolate into physical body (Annamaya Kosa)through disturbed prana flows. Hence the management of these stress induced ailments shouldcorrect imbalances at all these levels (physical, prana and mind) and help the patient establishhimself in his Vijnanamaya and Anandamaya Kosa which is the state of freedom from illness. HenceYoga techniques are offered at all these levels, to correct the imbalances through a set of yogapractices which we have termed as Integrated approach of yoga therapy (IAYT). The following arethe practices, to correct the problem at various levels:Annamaya Kosa: Kriyas (Traditional voluntary internal cleansing techniques), Yogasanas (bodypostures) and Savasana (Relaxation posture),Pranamaya Kosa: Five types of systematic regulated slow deep breathing practices with or withoutbreath holding, called Pranayama.Manomaya Kosa: Meditation (Dharana and Dhyana) and devotional session (Bhakti yoga),Vijnanamaya Kosa: Understanding the nature of ones problems in the light of Indian thinkingthrough self analysis (Jnana yoga),Anandamaya Kosa: Practice joy under all circumstances (Karma yoga). Try to touch the inner coreof one self in solitude and establish in the experience that Ananda is the basic fabric of this universeincluding the self.SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH ON MEDICAL APPLICATIONS OF YOGATo date large number of publications are available studying various aspects of yoga in health anddisease. Let us look at these under two major categories namely (a) application of yoga in diseaseincluding rehabilitation and (b) in promotion of positive health at physical, mental, social andspiritual levels.YOGA IN STRESS RELATED DISEASESThe increasing awareness that many of the common psychiatric and psychosomaticproblems have stress as the basic underlying factor, has led to many studies trying to applytechniques of stress management in these ailments with encouraging results. 'Yoga', which is anexperiential science provides a systematic methodology with its firm roots in a holistic philosophywhich is in total harmony with nature. This science is the offshoot of thousands of years of internalresearch by Indian sages.

YOGA IN RESPIRATORY ALLERGIESThere are several publications to demonstrate the role of emotions in asthma and also to validatethe efficacy of different yoga practices in bronchial asthma. Some are well designed controlledstudies whereas many of the earlier studies were observations on uncontrolled groups.Negative emotions and psychosocial pathology are found to be related to severe asthma (Friedman,1984; Carswell, 1985; Carson and Schauer, 1992). Miller et al (1994) demonstrated that sadness wasassociated with greater heart rate variability and instability of oxygen saturation compared withhappiness. There was mixed results for mixed happiness and sadness. Self-rated hostility anddepression (Schmaling et al. 1997) and higher degree of frustrating situations in their life (Berezin etal. 1997) were found to be associated with decreased pulmonary function, blood immunoglobulinlevels and clinical state of the disease. Alexander (1972) demonstrated the effect of systematicrelaxation on flow rate in asthmatic children in whom emotional factors were prominent. Wilson etal (1975) evaluated 21 asthmatics after the practice of TM for 6 months with crossover at 3 months,indicating that transcendental meditation is an useful adjunct in treating asthma. Goyeche (1982)published his work on the integrated yoga approach to asthma with beneficial results. Singh et al(1990) studied 18 subjects with mild bronchial asthma after 2 weeks of practice of yogic pranayamaby the use of a breathing device called pink city lung exerciser (PCL). Slow mouth breathing throughthis device simulates yogic pranayama with a ratio of 1:2 between inhalation and exhalation. Thiswas compared with breathing through a placebo device. In this randomised, double blind, crossoverplacebo controlled study they observed greater degree of improvement in PCL group than thecontrol group on FEV1, PEFR, symptom score and inhaler usage. Fluge et al (1994) in a controlledstudy on 36 asthmatics followed up for 4 months concluded that breathing exercises had anadditive effect when used in combination with Albuterol inhalation therapy. Vedanthan et al (1998)studied the effect of yoga practices on 17 students in the age group of 19-52 years in an universityset up. Daily symptom score, medication score, AM and PM PEFR, weekly questionnaires and lungfunctions were measured. The subjects in yoga group reported significant degree of relaxation,positive attitude and tendency for lesser usage of inhalers.YOGA IN ANXIETY NEUROSISVarious yoga practices such as asanas, meditation, pranayama, savasana are now recognised asrelaxation techniques comparable to many behavioral modification techniques like biofeedback and

progressive muscular relaxation based on the famous work of Wallace (1970) who showed that thepractice of Transcendental Meditation (TM) brings about signs of overall psychophysiologicalrelaxation. Anxiety neurosis recognized as an exaggerated form of stress response with sympathetichyperreactivity, could therefore benefit through any one of these relaxation therapies. (Udupa,1972; Rapp et al. 1984), Norton & Johnson (1983), DeLuca & Holborn (1984), Tarrier & Main (1986)have demonstrated the comparative efficacy of different types of muscle relaxation therapies(taped instructions or applied relaxations) in different types of anxiety of both cognitive andsomatic type such as snake phobia, nail biting, hair pulling, panic attacks as well as general anxiety.Tyrer et al (1988) in their randomised control study on 210 subjects demonstrated that self helpgroup fared better than the diazepam group and consumed less psychotropic drugs. Further Rabatet al (1992) showed the effect of mindful meditation to reduce stress, anxiety, depression, panicand also the panic of agrophobia. Gagne (1990) compared the effect of therapeutic touch &relaxation and concluded that they could be palliative adjuncts in anxiety. Khalsa et al (1996) triedthe efficacy of a specific yoga breathing pattern in 8 subjects with obsessive compulsive disorderwith significant improvement on OCD, as measured by anxiety and global severity indices. Crisan(1988) observed reduction in scores on Max Hamilton's a anxiety scale, general healthquestionnaire, heart rate, urinary level of VMA and a rise in galvanic skin resistance in 19 patientswith generalised anxiety neurosis after 8 weeks of pranayama practice.YOGA IN DIABETESIn both IDDM and NIDDM physiologically demanding stressful situations like infection, pregnancyetc. are known to increase the demand for insulin. Similarly emotional stresses also contribute tothe irregular control of diabetes. Relaxation therapies using biofeedback or taped instructions havebeen reported to be useful in better control of diabetes (Me grady et al. 1991). Jobson et al (1991)in a well planned controlled study showed that although there was demonstrable physiological rest(reduced muscle activity and skin resistance) the progressive relaxation training and biofeedbackgiven once a week did not help in improving diabetic control in 20 patients with type II diabetes.Monro et al (1992) carried out a controlled trial on 21 subjects with NIDDM. Fasting blood glucoseand glycosylated haemoglobin reduced significantly (p<0.05) in the group of 11 who practised theintegrated programme of yoga as compared to a matched control group of 10 who did not practiceyoga. Several other studies (Sahay et al 1986, Jain et al 1993) have shown the beneficial effects ofyoga in NIDDM through reduction in hyperglycemia and the need for oral hypoglycemic agents. Rice

et al (1992) observed increased peripheral blood circulation in lower extremities as measuredthrough toe temperature and blood volume pulse in 40 diabetes in the age range of 17 to 73 yearsafter biofeedback assisted relaxation training.YOGA IN HYPERTENSIONAs early as nineteen thirties Swami Kuvalayananda of Kaivalyadhama started studying the effects ofyogic practices on blood pressure, heart rate etc, in yogis. Datey and his coworkers (1969) showedthe beneficial effect of savasana in mild hypertensives who were not taking medication. Patel(1973,75) has shown the beneficial effects of savasana in hypertension in her year long follow-upcontrol study. In an open study comprising 23 hypertensive patients Sachdeva et al (1994) observedreduction in systolic blood pressure from 134.5 ± 16.01 to 125.1 ± 9.60mm of Hg and diastolic bloodpressure from 88.5 ± 9.42 to 81.62 ± 6.48mm of Hg respectively after 2 months of yogic life stylechange.Talukdar (1994) noted statistically significant changes in cell membrane enzymes after yogapractices in hypertensives. 10 to 12 weeks of practising certain yogasanas increased serum HDLlevels and caused a trend of reduction in serum cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL and VLDL(Bhaskaracharyulu et al, 1996). Though its beneficial role in mild hypertension has beendemonstrated, more in-depth study is required to document the effect of different forms of yogaon patients with moderate and severe hypertension and also the mechanisms have to be workedout through studying autonomic status, renin-angiotensin mechanism and platelet aggregation etc.YOGA IN CORONARY HEART DISEASECoronary heart disease being one of the major killers of mankind even today, the role of life stylemodification to take care of all the risk factors to prevent CHD cannot be overlooked.Greenwood et al (1996) reviewed the literature and showed that both social support and lifestresses influence the incidence and mortality of coronary heart disease, the latter more so thanthe former. The emotion support had the largest effect. Orth Gomer et al (1997) analysed the heartrate variability from a bolter record during transient myocardial ischeamia and observedsuppression of the efferent vagal activity and suggested that this vagal blockage may be aforerunner to onset of ischaemia. Winneberg (1997) found positive correlation between collageninduced platelet aggregation and outwardly expressed anger as measured by anger expressionscale. The work of Ornish et al has become a major land mark on this path of preventive cardiology.Gould, Ornish and coworkers (1995) studied the changes in myocardial perfusion by positronemission tomography (PET) after 5 years of intense risk factor modification. The experimental groupof 20 followed a programme of very low fat vegetarian diet, mild to moderate exercise, stressmanagement and group support. The abnormalities on rest-dipyridamol PET abnormalities of

ventricular perfusion showed significant change in the experimental group (-5.1 ± 4.8% normalisedcounts) while the control group who continued under family physicians care with antianginaltherapy had worsening of size, severity of PET abnormalities (10.3 * 5.6%). Although there was asignificant degree of improvement observed in the percent diameter stenosis on coronaryangiography in the experimental group as compared to control group, greater degree of changeswere observed in ventricular perfusion and the measurement of area of LV with less than 60%activity in PET.YOGA IN RHEUMATOID ARTHRITISStress could be a major triggering or aggravating factor for the autoimmune inflammation inrheumatoid arthritis has been understood. Haslock (1994) reported the beneficial effect on gripstrength and Stanford health assessment questionnaire disability index in 10 severe rheumatoidarthritis subjects, as compared to 10 matched controls who participated in a programme of IAYT.Role of yoga in mechanical back pain, carpel tunnel syndrome, cervical spondylosis, fibromyalgiaand chronic pain have been studied by many workers.YOGA IN REHABILITATIONYoga practices have been tried in the rehabilitation of various socially disadvantaged groups likeinmates of jails, drug abusers, alcoholics, congenitally blind, mentally retarded and children fromcommunity (remand) homes. In all these socially disadvantaged groups, either due to repressedanger or depression or anxiety, a heightened state of mental arousal could be a common underlyingfactor, that can interfere with their efficiency in any new learning for better living or for improvedperformance.YOGA IN COMMUNITY HOMESChildren in community homes although physically normal were socially and emotionallytraumatized (Ahvenainen, et al 1990) Significantly higher level of sympathetic arousal as seen byheart rate, respiratory rate, skin resistance was seen in community home girls in Bangalorecompared to regular school children (Telles, Naveen & coworkers 1997). In a comparative study, we(Narendran & Raghuraj, 1997; Raghuraj & Telles 1997) showed significant reduction in breath rate,skin resistance, performance on muscle power, dexterity skill and visual perception in the yogagroup compared to the group practising games in 14 pairs of girls in the age group 12-16 years,from a community home.YOGA FOR THE BLINDNaveen et al (1996) on repeated recording of middle latency auditory evoked potentials (AEPMLR)demonstrated that the information processing in the auditory pathways was much better in thecongenitally blind than normally sighted children showing better sensitivity in hearing enablingthem to use echoes to perceive spatial position. Greater anxiety and higher heart rates were notedin the blind compared to matched normal children (Ollendick et al. 1985 & Wycherley 1970).YOGA FOR MENTALLY RETARDEDSpecial education for the mentally retarded has now been well streamlined and these children are

getting integrated into general education. Yoga has been tried out as an adjunct in education ofchildren with mental retardation, learning disabilities and attention deficit hyper activitysyndromes. Krishnamacharya yoga mandiram (1983) documented and reported subjectiveimprovements and also described the practices of yoga adopted for these children. We (Uma et al1989), in our matched control studyon 90 retarded children practising IAYT for one hour daily for one academic year as an adjunct tothe standard techniques of special education have shown significant improvement in IQ (BinetKamat's test) and social adaptation (Vineland social maturity scale) in addition to improvement inlocomotor skills (Siguine form board) in those with mild and moderate degree of retardation.Improved attention span after IAYT may be the mechanism that promotes learning.YOGA FOR PSYCHOSIS AND CHEMICAL ABUSEThere are several reports of the use of TM in the rehabilitation of drug abusers and alcoholics(Shafi, 1974; Brautigam, 1972; Benson et al. 1972). We observed the beneficial effect of IAYT in therehabilitation of schizophrenics (Telles, 1997) in a long stay home.YOGA FOR PROMOTION OF POSITIVE HEALTHApplication of yoga for the first component (absence of disease) of the WHO definition of healthhas been highlighted. Let us now look at the other components namely promotion of positivehealth at the physical, mental, social and spiritual level.YOGA FOR POSITIVE PHYSICAL HEALTHPositive health at physical level includes normalcy of body mass index (Height weight ratio),flexibility of joints, supple but strong muscles, skill in motor performance, resistance in infectionsand tolerance to environmental variations.Large number of studies were reported by the TM group demonstrating improved physical healthmeasured by motor and perceptual ability, athletic performance and reaction time (Shaw & Kole,1971), and also by better performance of perceptual motor tasks (Karene, 1971). Six months ofyogic asanas was shown to increase hip and shoulder flexibility in the middle-aged men whereasphysical exercises had no such effect (Ray et al. 1983).YOGA IN PHYSICAL EDUCATIONNayar et al. (1975) demonstrated improvement in cardiorespiratory functions in NBA cadets trainedin yogic practice as compared to those undergoing physical training, The body flexibility and themuscular efficiency improved after six months of yogic training (Ray et al. 1986). The improvementin muscular efficiency was reflected as an increase in endurance time probably due to alternaterecruitment of motor units. Telles et al (1993) studied 40 senior physical education school teacherswho were doing diverse physical activities for 8.9 ± 5.8 years after 3 months of integrated yogaprogramme. There was a significant increase in PFR (6%),,FEV1 (16%), FVC (18%), breath holdingtime (40%) and a significant reduction in heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, body weightand the number of errors made in the steadiness test reduced significantly. The galvanic skinresistance increased reflecting reduction in sympathetic tone.

YOGA AND IMMUNE SYSTEMPsychological stress is thought to undermine host resistance to infection through neuroendocrinemediator changes in immune competence. 236 preschool children in the age group of 3 to 5 years,were studied by Boyce et al (1995). They compared the effect of laboratory stress of performingdevelopmentally challenging task with two measures of environmental stress at the child carecenter and assessed the cardiovascular reactivity, incidence of respiratory illnesses, CD4, CDS &CD19 cell counts, lymphocyte mitogenesis and antibody response to pneumococcal vaccine. Theyshowed that the incidence of illness was related to an interaction of child care stress and meanarterial pressure reactivity (measure of psychobiologic reactivity to stress). They also observed aninteraction between stressful life events and CD19 reactivity during stress of entering school.Klemons (1972) in their controlled clinical study assessed the degree of gingival inflammation (GI) in46 TM meditators compared with 26 non meditators. Improvement of GI was noted in 74% of themeditators Vs 15% in non meditators. Practice of IAYT by patients with open tuberculosis in asanatorium through controlled studies showed faster recovery in their general health, X-raychanges and sputum positivity. Allergies, autoimmunity and cancer are other immune systemdisorders where the role of yoga has been experimented upon.YOGA FOR POSITIVE MENTAL HEALTHA positive mental health would be achieved by sharpening of perception of information arriving tothe brain through all our special senses, better analytical faculty (IQ), sharper memory and on theoverall improvement in personality characteristics. Emotions being the major component of humanbehavior, mastery over the upsurges of emotion is considered as the sign of better health ratherthan just a sharpening of emotions. The capacity to replace instinctual violent emotions like angeror fear by soft emotions like love, sympathy, peace and contentment indicates higher levels ofemotional health.YOGA FOR PERCEPTIONMeditation has been described as a training in awareness, which when kept over long periodsproduces definite changes in perception, attention and cognition (Brown, 1977). Significant changeswere reported in the visual perception of advanced meditators, who were able to distinguish subtledifferences in color and shade. They were more perceptually sensitive to detect shorter light flashesand required a shorter interval to differentiate between successive flashes correctly (Brown et al.1980,1984). It has also been shown that processing of sensory information at the thalamic level isfacilitated during the practice of pranayama (Telles et al. 1992) and meditation (Telles & Desiraju,1993). These two practices, along with IAYT were found to bring about an improvement in hand

steadiness in college students following 10 days ofpractice (Telles et al. 1993). This improvement was believed to be due to improved eye-handcoordination, better attention, concentration and relaxation.We (Telles et al 1995) tested the visual discrimination in two groups of 18 college students (age 17-22 years) each, by their ability to detect intermittent light of fixed luminance at varying frequencieson a Critical Flicker Fusion apparatus. The initial values were 37.6±0.7 and 37.9±0.6 which changedto 42.6±1.6 (p<0.01) and 36.4 ± 0.7 (p<0.5) in Yoga and control groups respectively demonstratingsharper perceptual ability after yoga. In another study (Ramanavani 1997) in adults (25 to 39 years),we observed that the improvement in Critical Flicker Fusion in yoga group occurred after 20 days ofyoga instead of 10 days unlike in children where the changes were demonstrable within 10 days.It has been shown that training in focusing the gaze on the stimulus reduces the optical illusion by79% (Hochberg 1984). The degree of illusion was measured on Muller Lyer apparatus where thelines although of equal length, appear unequal due to the two different types of arrows drawn atboth ends of the line (<—>), the close ended (<—>) or open ended (<—>). There was a 86%reduction (Tukey test, p<0.001) in degree of illusion in the group of 30 subjects after 30 days ofintegrated yoga practice where as the control group did not show significant change (Telles et al.1997).YOGA FOR LEARNING AND INTELLIGENCEShecter (1975) showed significantly greater improvement on measures of creativity (match problemtest), Intellectual performance (Raven progressive matrices) and personality (Jackson personalityinventory) with a reduction in their anxiety (Lickert scaled questionnaire) after practice oftranscendental meditation (4 days ) and science of creative intelligence (14 weeks) Program in 60high school students. Collier (1973) and Heaton et al (1974) demonstrated the improvement inperformance and achievement in university students after transcendental meditation. In 1989 we(Uma et al) demonstrated the role of integrated approach of yoga in improving IQ in specialchildren.YOGA IN MEMORYImproved information processing at thalamo-cortical pathway, better attention, concentration andemotional stability forms the basis for better registration and retrieval. Abrams (1972) showed adirect relationship between transcendental meditation, quicker acquisition and higher recallperformance in 14 subjects. Effect of breathing through a particular nostril on selective memorytest for 'right' (spatial) and 'left' (verbal) brain functions (Telles et al 1997) were studied. 108 schoolchildren with an age range of 10 to 17 years were randomly arranged to 4 groups. Each group

practiced a specific yoga breathing technique namely (a) right nostril breathing (SAV), (b) left nostrilbreathing (CAV), (c) alternate nostril breathing (NS), (d) breath awareness without manipulation ofnostrils. Yoga training caused an increase in verbal and spatial memory scores within 10 days. For allgroups there appeared to be more marked improvement in right brain functioning. A marginaldifference was obtained between the scores of the SAV and the CAV groups, suggesting anipsilateral beneficial effect.YOGA FOR EMOTIONAL STABILITYModern day living style in laden with the ill effects of stress. Stress according to yoga is anuncontrolled surge of emotions like intense desire, anger, anxiety etc. When the stress is prolonged,the person loses his capacity to come out of the clutches of the loop of intensely heightened activitythat shows up as imbalances in the function of the autonomic nervous system. This shows up asgeneralised complaints like anxiety, fatigue, addictions etc. or as localised problems (asthma). Roleof yoga to reduce the force and speed of these violent surges of emotions has been validated bymany workers through psychophysiological studies.In early 1970's, the epoch making study of Wallace (1970) showed that the practice ofTranscendental Meditation brings about a unique "hypometabolic physiologic wakeful state" withoverall signs of psychophysiological relaxation. A study from DIPAS (Delhi) showed that six monthstraining in asanas (physical postures), pranayama (breathing practices), and meditation broughtabout definite physiological changes in normal volunteers, viz. an increase in orthostatic toleranceand an overall shift in the autonomic equilibrium towards parasympathodominance, as was shownduring Transcendental Meditation (Selvamurthy et al. 1983). Further studies (Telles et al 1995) onOM meditation showed significant reduction in heart rate with an increase in cutaneous peripheralvascular resistance which is a sign of increased mental alertness even while physiologically relaxed.Telles et al (1994) published their interesting observation that breathing exclusively through rightnostril (Surya anuloma viloma) showed a 37% increase in basal oxygen consumption, as compared18% and 24% increase after alternate nostril (nadi suddhi) or left nostril (Chandra anuloma viloma)breathing. This suggested that breathing through right or left nostril breathing may have activatingor relaxing effect on the sympathetic nervous system. This was supported (Telles 1997) by changesin systolic blood pressure and digit pulse volume suggesting the sympathetic stimulating effect ofright nostril breathing.

YOGA FOR SOCIAL HEALTHBetter adaptability when exposed to varying sociocultural situations is an important faculty which isgenerally measured through various personality tests. According to yoga the most importantparameter of positive social health is "Tatsukha Sukhitwam" which means joy in the joy of others.Movement from selfishness to selflessness is considered as the measure of growth of social health.At the negative spectrum of the social health one could consider antisocial behaviors like crimes,accidents etc. that show up because of increasing degree of selfishness with total lack of socialawareness and civic sense.In 1976 Borland et al. published their interesting paper on "Maharshi effect" wherein theydemonstrated a sudden downward shift in the trend of increasing crime rate when about 1% of thecity population had begun the TM technique. A comparison of 11 US cities with population over 25,000 with 0.97% or more of their population practising TM with 11 matched control cities showedthat the mean change in crime rate from 1972-1973 among the control cities had increased by 8.3%as compared to a decrease of 8.2% in cities with 1% meditators, the difference being statisticallysignificant.YOGA FOR SPIRITUAL HEALTHTexts on Yoga and Upanishads describe the criteria of spiritual health as self awareness of one'snatural state of contentment. The joy or happiness is independent of any external agency. Such aperson's activities are not motivated by the need for material gains of money, name or fame andthey function in the society totally in tune with cosmic order charecterised by simplicity,truthfulness and confidence. This is a state of eternal bliss and contentment, undisturbed by theups and downs of the life.The nearest measure of such a state described by the modern psychologists could be that of "selfactualization". Many studies were conducted on transcendental meditators to show improvedscores on self actualization values, spontaneity, self regard, self acceptance, synergy, acceptance ofaggression, capacity for intimate contact in meditation as compared to non meditators (Hielle 1974,Davis et al. 1984 and Nidich et al. 1973). This was measured by Shostrom's personal orientationinventory of self actualization.Triguna questionnaire which is based on Satva, Rajas, and Tamas type of personality described inBhagavad Gita and other Indian texts may prove to be a good tool for measuring the spiritualgrowth of the individual. Studies on higher states of consciousness (Orme Johnson 1976), newtheories in physics defining consciousness as the base of all being (Goswami 1993), research in ESP,telepathy, rebirth and Psychoneuroimmunology are all opening up newer avenues of understandingof the subtler aspect of positive health, which were not in the perview of science until recently.

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ABSTRACTIt is good that humanity has rejected the narrow view of health, as merely the absence of ill-healthor disease just as Life is not merely the absence of death. Life, in fact is much larger than death.Rightly, it has been said that health is not everything, but everything without health is nothing. Thisstate has been mentioned as 'Cit-Ananda'by ancient Indians. Health was defined as 'A state ofcomplete physical, mental and social-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity'.Health, therefore, should be considered as the key for the achievement of the goal of life and notmerely a tool to satisfy the desires of man.No matter which way we look at health, all the great religious philoosphies identify the final goal oflife either as attainment of emancipation, liberation from the cycle of life and death. Nirvana,salvation of Final Beatitude or something similar. All, one way or the other mean something similar.This state is described wherein all desires, egos, pain and pleasure cease to exist and where one'ssoul is engulfed in a supreme bliss of the highest pleasure. This state has been mentioned as 'citananda' by ancient Indians. This was, thus, a state of extreme well-being.The ancient dawns of human knowledge have left with us their witness to this constant aspiration:"Today we see a humanity satiated but not satisfied by victorious analysis of the externalities ofnature, preparing to return to its primeval longing. The earliest formula of wisdom promises to beits last God, Light, Freedom, Immortality". Health, therefore, should be considered as the key forthe achievement of the goal of life and not merely a tool to satisfy the carnal desires of man.Seventh of April of 1948 was a red-letter day for the humanity, because on that day, theConstitution of the World Health Organization came into force and a momentum was given tohuman history, to go ahead with a universal joint movement for the achievement of health of themankind. Health was defined as "a state of complete physical, mental and social-being and notmerely the absence of disease or infirmity".It is significant to note that the definition of health confined to only three dimensionsof physical, mental and social. Spiritual health was conspicuous by its not being mentioned at thattime.CONSIDERATION OF SPIRITUAL HEALTH BY WHOThis proposition took the form of a resolution on the spiritual dimension of health at the ThirtysixthWorld Health Assembly in 1983. There could indeed be a spiritual dimension of man, but couldthere be a spiritual dimension in health care programme? The matter of defining the spiritualdimension of health was referred again to the Executive Board.Based on further deliberations in the Executive Board, the Thirty-seventh World Health Assemblyadopted a resolution to the effect that spiritual dimension should be added to the scope of health.

It may be recalled that at the World Health Assembly in 1974, Member States of the World HealthOrganization adopted a resolution emphasizing the need to explore the role of psychosocial factorsaffecting health and human development.It was decided to initiate programs concerning the role of psychosocial factors and their influenceon health in general, and mental health in particular, and on the part that these factors play in thefunctioning of health services (WHA 27.53). Two years later, in 1976, the World Health Assemblyresolved to apply existing knowledge in the psychosocial field to improve health care, particularlyfor those most in need; to develop methods so that relevant psychosocial information is madeavailable to health planners; and to acquire new knowledge on which health action can be based(WHA 29.21).The milestone towards a new definition of health was created in 1978, when, on the initiative of theIndian representative in the Executive Board of WHO, it was proposed that the definition of healthbe enlarged to cover spiritual well-being, in addition to the physical, mental and social well-being.Finally, at the Thirty-sixth World Health Assembly, held in Geneva in 1983, a number of countriesproposed a resolution concerning the spiritual dimension of health in Committee 'A' of theAssembly, which ran as follows :"The Thirty-sixth World Health Assembly, pursuant to the objective of WHO spelt out itsConstitution, namely the attainment by all peoples of the highest possible level of health;Considering that a spiritual dimension is implicit in such a concept of health;Recognizing the major importance of the spiritual dimension in providing the best possible healthcare to the peoples:1. Affirms the importance of spiritual dimension in providing health care to peoples;2. Requests the Director-General to take the spiritual dimension into consideration in thepreparation and development of primary health care programs aimed at the attainment of the goalof health for all, by the year 2000."Whether there could be a spiritual dimension in health care programme, he was not sure. Based onfurther deliberations in the Executive Board, the Thirty-seventh World Health Assembly adopted aresolution (WHA 37.13) to the effect that spiritual dimension should be added to the scope ofhealth. The resolution contains an affirmation that ennobling ideas have not only stimulatedworldwide action for health, but have also given to health an added spiritual dimension.THE THIRTY-SEVENTH WORLD HEALTH ASSEMBLYHaving considered the Director-General's report on the spiritual dimension in the Global Strategyfor Health for All by the year 2000 and the recommendation of the Executive Board, thereoncontained in resolution EB73.R3;

Understanding the spiritual dimension to imply a phenomenon that is not material in nature butbelongs to the realm of ideas, beliefs, values and ethics that have arisen in the minds andconscience of human beings, particularly ennobling ideas;1. Thanks to the Director-General for his report and the Executive Board for its recommendation;2. Concurs with the reflections contained in the report;3. Notes that ennobling ideas have given rise to health ideals, which have led to a practical strategytowards 'health for all', that aims at attaining a goal that has both a material and nonmaterialcomponent;4. Recognizes that if the material component of the strategy can be provided to people, thenonmaterial or spiritual one is something that has to arise within people and communities inkeeping with their social and cultural patterns;5. Considers that the realization of the health ideals that form the moral basis of the goal of healthfor all, by the year 2000, will itself contribute to people's feelings of well-being.6. Recognizes that the spiritual dimension plays a great role in motivating people's achievement inall aspects of life;7. Affirms that ennobling ideas have not only stimulated worldwide action for health but have alsogiven to health, as defined in WHO'S Constitution, an added spiritual dimension;8. Invites Member States to consider including in their strategies for health for all, a spiritualdimension, as defined in this resolution, in accordance with their social and cultural patterns.In response to the above. Regional Director, SEAR requested the writer to prepare a paper which isannexed (see Annexure).In concluding para, it sums up thus: There has been commendable research work to determine arelation between consciousness and awareness, utilizing the animal model to fit in with the humanbeing. Neither the study of physics nor chemistry, or its interpretation into the life sciences, canexplain this phenomenon and that is the reason why it has been said that only man himself can bethe real basis of the study of man. This can be achieved only be "self awareness", as Schuhmachercalls it, or "self-realisation", as Sri Aurobindo puts it. For this, it is necessary for man to transcendbeyond the physical, mental and social parameters and deal with the qualitative values of life; the'spiritual aspect, - "Factor X", which convincingly differentiates a human being from an animal.ETYMOLOGY OF THE WORD HEALTH'The word "health" appears to have derived from the Sanskrit word "swasth". This word is made upof two parts, "swa" and "asth". "Swa" means self and "asth" means existence. Thus, when anindividual is capable of existing by oneself, without being dependent on any one, he is consideredswasth or in health. With the passage of time and as the language spread further west, as "Sindh"became "Sind", then "Hind" and later "Ind" on account of the phonetic differences in the Middle

East where "SA" is often pronounced as "HA" "Swasth" became "Health". In this context, healthshould also represent a state in which one is fully capable of existing by oneself; and does not haveto depend upon other external support.EVOLUTIONARY PHASES OF MANKINDFrom inert matter to vital, from vital to mental and from mental to still higher planes, are the stagesperceived by seers, as stages of evolution.".t is also recognized that each stage has its own evolutionary force and consciousness. It isimportant to conceive that as physical is something that responds to physical forces and has in itselfa physical consciousness, vital is something that responds to vital or bioforces and has in itself avital consciousness; mind is therefore that which responds to mental forces and has its ownconsciousness. Similarly, "spiritual" as a part of cosmic existence will respond to cosmic forces andwill have its own cosmic consciousness. It should be appreciated that diverse forces play positiveand negative roles in enhancing and maintaining good health or inducing ill health. The spiritualdimension of health, focuses and addresses this aspect of health.SPIRITUAL HEALTH AS A PART OF INTEGRAL HEALTHHolistic approach or integral approach, therefore, assumes great importance.The aim of healthy living cannot be divorced from the general aim of nature in us. To do that wouldbe to place man as a phenomenon apart from nature, leading to an inevitable conflict between himand the forces of nature, both tangible and intangible. If we carefully observe, we shall find thatthrough aeons nature has been toiling to find forms more and more fit to manifest higher andhigher levels of energy substance. Finally, in a fully developed man, the body becomes capable ofexperiencing and expressing forces of knowledge, as thought forms and higher aesthetics. Theprevious faculties not only undergo a sublimating change but also partly lose their capacity properto a lower form of body. Animals have a spontaneous capacity to heal the body. In man, this facultyis half lost but then man gains a new capacity - that of modifying, if not fully determining the courseof physical processes and ailments. In general, the gist of both these emerging lines of evidence isto show that in man the mental energy and substance can manipulate the physical substance in away, as to alter, govern and even determine its processes. "A logical conclusion of this evolutionaryhypothesis of our body is that this body is that this body will go on evolving under the pressure ofthis urge. Under the pressure of evolutionary forces, nature enters into rapid experiments, like theformation and dissolution of links and the emerging of intermediate species.A sick body or a sick mind or a sick soul, cannot exist in isolation. The concept to true and totalhealth will therefore depend upon body and mind and soul harmony and equilibrium of body, mind

and soul.UNDERSTANDING 'SPIRIT OR 'SOUL'Before we deliberate in any detail about spiritual health, it is essential that we deal with "spirit" and"spiritual" in larger detail. "Spirit" and "Spiritual" have been described in the dictionaries as follows:Chamber's - Twentieth Century Dictionary describes it as: "Vital principle; the principle of thought;the soul; a disembodies soul, an incorporeal being, ghost" and "Spiritual" as "pertaining to spiritincorporeal ecclesiastical etc." When we talk of body-mind-soul complex, an often asked question is- what is the necessity of bringing in soul when everything can be explained by mind itself such as,morality, ethics etc. Can all the higher qualities and attributes be included into human mind itself?Human brain is considered as the organ of the body, responsible for its mental attributes. Theprinciple of reincarnation, therefore, is inherent in itself and the-almighty God is the regulator of allsouls; although each soul is independent to whatever "karma" or action, it wishes to perform. Thethird view of the interrelationships of body, mind and soul, came up in the form of the theory of "allpervading consciousness", a view propounded and dealt extensively by Sri Aurobindo. In theAurobindan philosophy, all pervading "consciousness" is the sheet(6) anchor of the understandingof the very existence. For Aristotle, mind was "noys intellect", the only part of the soul to survivedeath. There is thus a lot in common with what mind has been described and the soul or the spirit."Spirit" is higher or deeper than "mind". It is the "soul" that governs the mind and its actions aremanifested through the medium of our body, which is composed of matter. According to Upnishadswhich explain Vedas, spirit comes from the higher spirit or as they call the Atman, comes fromParamatman and therefore, it is part and parcel of the highest spirit and yet is not the same. This"spirit" or consciousness" even resides in the matter in unmanisfested form and as life or vital"consciousness" enters into the matter and gives it life. This forms the base for the mentalconsciousness, which forms the base for supramental consciousness and it is perceived that infurther evolutionary phase, it will form the base for universal, cosmic or highest consciousness tobecome one with the supreme spirit from which it originated. This has been called the "cycle ofsoul".Let us consider as to what we understand as the anatomical basis of consciousness. Reptilian brain -consisting of life-sustaining activities such as breathing, eating, self-protection, mating etc.Mammalian brain - one above plus complex emotional behaviour. Human cortex - one and twoabove plus "reasoning brain".It is almost impossible to say with confidence, as to where mind or spirit resides, but one of theviews is that it resides in the cortex of the brain and forms the basis of consciousness. Aurobindo

describes various levels of consciousness - what happens to the spirit? The Soul, the Atman, thePsychic self, the innermost awareness?It is perhaps best to reiterate certain basic principles of eschotology as defined by the Vedas andexpanded by rishis in Brahmanas and Upanishads, in the post-Vedic era.1. There is only one single entity, "superconsciousness", known as God by various names. Eachname describes a particular aspect or quality. He is responsible for the creationof the universe andthe seat of all pervading power, energy and holder of all" souls" and imparts to each soul fruits of itsKarma or actions.2 Each individual man, animal, plant and all living matter contain its own Soul and consciousness.3. "Matter" "soul" and "God" have neither beginning nor end.4. "Soul" is independent in the performance of its "karma" or actions and reaps the results of such"Karma".5. The aim of life every individual is fourfold - the attainment of Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha -by following the path of rightousness to acquire material wealth, satisfy desires and finally achieveemancipation and get rid of the cycle of birth and death.Spirit is thus the highest level of mind. As per Sri Aurobindo, "matter" has its own consciousness notperceived by us and it becomes the base for vital or life consciousness and in its yet to bemanifested state, it will become the base of overmind and supermind and in its highest level duringthe process of evolution, will become the base for the highest plane of cosmic consciousness, whichwe may call Godhead.SPIRITUAL HEALTH - ILL HEALTHSo far what we have discussed perhaps raises more questions than what can be convenientlyanswered. Some of the issues which need be focussed are as follows:1. Can mind, and therefore, mental health, or ill-health be separated from spiritual health or illhealth?Thus, what are the manifestations of spiritual health?2. As when mind is affected, leading to signs and symptoms of ill-health, similarly can "spirit" bealso affected leading to symptoms and signs?3. Can preventive measures be undertaken to improve spiritual health; what about therehabilitation of persons with spiritual ill-health?4. If mankind or humankind is continuously evolving into a higher and deeper superstate orconsciousness, in what way spiritual health or higher levels of consciousness can come to play withthe spiritual levels.5. Can 'spiritual' health be generalised at a community level or should it be only considered at anindividual level?6. Can we consider various human organizations, institutions such as schools, colleges, governmentsetc. in terms of spiritual health?

7. How can one monitor or measure the level of spiritual health or, for that matter integral health,as discussed earlier.8. What type of futuristic human being is expected to evolve? Can we individually or collectivelyparticipate actively in this drama of human evolution? What type of teaching, training andeducational institutions would be developed today, to give an impetus and direction so that thehuman being evolves into a Divine man and not into a devilish monster, who will destroy himselfand his environment altogether?9. What role international institutions like UNICEF, WHO and UN bodies need to play today for abetter tomorrow and the day after to usher an accelerated evolution in the right direction?10. Let us deal with these issues as an approach rather than as answers. We cannot consider anysingle dimension of health in isolation. Each aspect of health always influences the other. As amatter of fact, there is no human activity either individual or collective, which does not have someeffect upon health. Health percolates through all our activities.If physical health influences mental health and mental health social health and vice versa, spiritualhealth will similarly be affected. If the collective spiritual health of a society is good, its individualhealth will also be better. And thus, the integral model of health achieves great importance.Dr. Kapoor in his deliberations mentioned the following characteristics (symptomsand signs) of a spiritually ill person:-(a) He is greedy. He is willing to take from the others what does not belong to him.Not only from fellow men but also from nature. The bigger the implements he possesses, morequickly does he divide and degrade the environment of its vegetation and all animal forms of life. Itdoes not mater to him if the life process itself stopped as long as the cross-sectional speck that he isgetting his fill.(b) He is violent. In his greed, he is willing to hurt, maim or kill. The bigger the greed, the bigger theviolence and tendency to kill becomes bigger than him. It does not matter if it takes his life, as well.Thus, the craze for acquiring more and more lethal weapons of war and destruction.(c) He is afraid to loose what he has. He therefore protects himself so closely that the inputs whichhelp the living system continuously above must be maintained at all costs. Often he becomesalienated, withdrawn and is unable to give or receive love.(d) He always doubts. Does not believe in any one. Has no confidence, either in himself or in others.He is truly isolated in paid and pathos.(e) He has intense desires, is in anger, is intensely 'attached' and when he is so involved, he losesperception of the 'self.What we must realise is that what is true for an individual, is equally applicable to a community, aninstitution or a state.In the light of the above manifestations of spiritual ill-health, we can identify a number ofparameters as indicate of good spiritual health of an individual, institution, community or state.Some of these are as under:

(a) No. of crimes (b) No. of violent acts (c) Denudation of nature (d) Pollutions (e) Differentialmortality and morbidity in a society(f) Terrorism, battles, war (g) Differential distribution of wealth - prevalence of poverty andsectarian affluence; (h) Animal welfare and biodiversity.These are but negative parameters of spiritual health. We can, on the similar lines, create positiveindicators such as:(a) Universal love and care of the sick and aged, in a society (b) Distribution of national wealth (c)Nutrition and Education (d) Shelter and clothing(e) Coming together in the event of natural disasters (f) Faith and temper conducive to acts ofbravery (g) Better quality of life itself, both of an individual and the society (h) Interdependence inthe community. Joint action against adversities.It is thus realised that spirituality cannot and should be perceived in isolation. It is an integral part ofthe total health and it percolates through all types of health. And yet, we can make a conduciveenvironment for a person or a society to achieve the highest levels of spiritual health, such as(a) Environment for learning, teaching and performing and appreciating art and literature, whichreally enrich our minds and souls.(b) Training of people in Yoga, aesthetics, social interaction and meditations.(c) Beautification of the environment.(d) Avoidance of all types of pollution, land, water, air and not in the least noise pollution.(e) Creation of centres for spiritual retreats.Earlier, we mentioned that what is in the cosmos is also found within an individual. On similar lines,what is true for the health of an individual, is true also for an Institution and any other organizationunit of people, such as a State or a country or even the world as a whole.STRATEGIES FOR ENHANCING SPIRITUAL HEALTHIn order to achieve the highest level of human health, we have to create new institutions orreorient the existing ones so that they can meet the needs of tomorrow and the day after and bepart of that unique human evolutionary process, which will enable the man of today to become thedivine human being of tomorrow.UN and its agencies, such as UNICEF and WHO, will have to orient themselves and become moreeffective in the realization of its aim and goal of ushering in the universal peace, prosperity, goodhealth and education.At man's level, some of the strategies that need to be followed are as under:(a) Awareness that inculcation of spiritual health is the basis of good social, mental and physicalhealth.(b) This has to be inculcated through all educational systems, right from early childhood andtherefore parents must be made aware of the need and importance of spiritual health.(c) Biologists, psychologists and sociologists should emphasize that "man" is being evolved. He hasaim and goal and its achievement is of primary importance. He has to be prepared to receive the

highest consciousness unto him and he must become an active partner in the evolutionary process.(d) The teaching of meditations, asanas, pranayama and other yoga exercises which are essentialfor all, throughout the life.(e) Health care should be in the hands of those who are well versed in spiritual dimension of health.(f) Health must be taught as a "dynamic equilibrium" and balance in all its dimensions - spiritual,social, mental and physical.(g) Centres of spiritual (dimension) "Health" should be created, supported, and they should beintegrated into general education. These should undertake research and developmental activitiesconducive to the furtherance of "spiritual health".(h) Work, wisdom and experiences of ancient rishis, seers and mystics should be appropriatelyrecorded and not be confined to only a few individuals but should be adopted for the commongood of mankind.(i) India, from time immemorial, has been a country which has given to the universe the highestform of wisdom through its Vedas, Upnishads, Brahmanas, Aurveda etc. India should take up thecentral role of the development of an international "spiritual grid" for coordinating spiritualactivities and information dissemination. One such institution has been started at Pondichery theabode of Sri Aurobindo, one of the greatest philosopher of modern time, where "studying andunderstanding health in depth in all its dimensions, with a new and total awareness of the humanbeing, so as to build a universal movement towards the realization of integral health by the HumanKind" has been started. This is aptly named after him, and is named as "Sri Aurobindo InternationalInstitute for Integral Health and Research". It is the good fortune of the writer to have beenassociated with the institution from its very inception.LOOKING FORWARDBefore we conclude, it is better that we reiterate the story of human evolution and surmise on thefuture evolution of mankind.According to Indian mythology, there are ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu. This aptly describes thevarious stages of the human evolutions in a story form, which are highly symbolic. The series startswith matsya (fish) which denotes the life originating in water. The next is kurma (Tortoise). Life triesto enter the 'Land'. Next is varah (Boar) which is symbolic of a new manifestation of vital force -gearing the earth and digging into it. The next is Narasimha (man lion) which is symbolic of halfanimal half human. The next is Parashuram (the axe man) which denotes the earliest of humanbeing with a stone "axe" for his survival and the use of a tool for his protection; however, stillviolent in a violent world full of huge animals. The next is Lord Rama who truly reflects a genuinehuman being full of ethics, morality and capacity to conquer his own emotions.Next is Lord Krishna and his brother Balaram. Their symbols are chakra and a plough which denote

dominion of agriculture and the wheel of power with ability to govern and destroy all that is evil.Next is Lord Buddha, who chalks out a way to achieve "Nirvana" on realization of the deeper self,who reiterates that the cycle of birth and death, can come to an end by achieving this Nirvanathrough enlightened soul. What an excellent concept of things? The last of the incarnations is saidto be Kalki, who has yet to manifest; who will put an end to all barbaric elements in man and willlead humanity towards the glorious path of spiritual realization. This tenth incarnation is promisedbut has not yet been manifested. However, when we look around us and see that man is makingendeavors to put an end to barbarism in different forms, and is organising himself in various waysbut with similar aims, we can safely assume that our Kalki has already been born in the hearts andsouls of mankind and that future will see that man does achieve - his goal and aim for which he hasbeen evolved from the lowest to the highest form of life.We started our theme with quotation from Sri Aurobindo as Man's 7 aspirations. Based on histeaching we can summarize the various evolutionary phases of manas:1. Physical man 2. The vital man 3. The mental man 4. Psychic man; and finally 5. Spiritual man.Different aspects of the phases have been beautifully described in poetic form by Norman C.Dowscott from Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Pondichery and are reproducedhere:PHYSICAL MANLabour with longing,Labour with might,Labour all daytime,sleep deep in the night,Plough the green valleysand scatter the seed,Climb the Red mountain,feel proud of the deed,Fear not thy longing,ask and demand - The beast of thefields are thine to command.Call on the elements,Conjure the fire,Master thy nature, conquer desire, Then when thy labours havefashioned a man,fashioned the best, that labouring can, Break all forms that upheld it, the ritual facade, Theappearance that man andsociety made;Break the yoke of your ploughing -earth'sprison bars; lift your eyes to the sun and thebeckoning stars.MENTAL MANTo know, is to be- unalarmed, unafraid, unashamed

To know is to be- fearless in darkness, faithful in doubt and more substinate thandesireI would recapture experience through the memory of my mindCapture the form of the Formless, analyse class and kind.I would arrange and assemble feelings and thoughts that aboundInto their place - the senses must rise to a higher ground,I would enquire and discover where true energy lies,Discover the truth of the world and why an eagle flies:I would search for the reason of colour, light and soundWhether they truly exist or only in sense are found1 would seek the meaning in Matter, its elements I would unfoldI would search the secrets of Nature to find the Alchemist's gold. I would fashionnewways and new methods and organise. Time and Space. I would believe in a Godabovewhen I meet him face to face,I would seek for the truth and the purpose in Matter, Life and Mind,And I would rather challenge creation than remain a mortal blindBut lastly, I would truly know myself, the truth of I, the symbol of my birth, This secret sense ofimmortality that is in me and in this blessed earth.VITAL MANI live in a world of action and strifethe warrior fighting for his lifeWars and battles rage in my breast - Untamed is the conflict and the unrestAnd yet I see a vast beauty aroundThe flight of the birds, the wonder of sound. The green of the grasses, the high blue ofthe sky, the dawn of the sunset that says, "I am I" the power which runs through the blood in myveinsThe threat of the thunder, the voice that remains. The thrill of energy out of desire-The knowledgethat I am born of the Fire. Deep in my darkness, grim passions arise, Yet will I offer them up to theskies. I will use my power to climb the sleep way and mount up to that glorious Summit of Day.PSYCHIC MANMy hearts rose up within me, like the dawn of day, And everything around me was a means of say :Fire flowering into flame, sweet, blessed earth, waters sacred name,and Air's Name and Air's new birth - Manifest the bliss that would be born wonderous Sun oh happysmiling morn!SPIRITUAL MANTo be, in its essence, is to be at peace, in silence, at rest in actionIn love with Life and Nature and GodI bow to the rising Dawn, and the new day's beginning with a great joy in the heart!I bow to all these wonders of the earth! My lord is the creatorI adore the sun and the moon and the stars and my hearth is aflame!I faint not for His strength is with me and His energy sustains the worlds.I grieve not thought he sufferings of the world I have known - His peace is upon

me.I rejoice for the Wisdom of the Lord is with me as I breathe His name. I enter inthe secret of my being that the true self may emerge - Oh great unfolding Love!I venture out, in the cosmic worlds. To widen the reaches of my mind - vast is theknowledge Thou wouldst show to meI aspire, above the Powers beyond, that they may here descent into this labouring earthSUPREME IS THY ENERGY 'OH' LORD1 manifest the truth of Thy Joy! ,1 manifest the knowledge of Thy Bliss!1 manifest the power of Thy Delight!We conclude here with the ardent hope that this article will be able to stimulate thereader to become an active comrade and a participant in the pursuit of human "Truehappiness" the Chidananda which is the ultimate goal of both ' Life' and 'Health'.ACKNOWLEDGMENTThe writer records with gratitude the kind permission given by the editor to extensively quotefor Namah, A journal of Sri Aurobindo International Institute for Integral Health andResearch" He sincerely thanks the Regional Director, WHO South-East Asia Region, Dr. UtonMuchtar Rafei and the staff of WHO, specially Dr Mochny of SEARO for their kind supportand assistance.REFERENCES1. The Life Divine - Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Pondichery2. The Spiritual Dimension of Health -Dr D.B. Bisht3. NAMAH, Vol. 4, Issue No. 2, pp. 51-524. NAMAH, Vol. I, Issue No. 4, pp. 17-195. NAMAH, Vol. 5, Issue No. I, pp. 45-536. The Light of Truth - Swami Dayanad, pp. 203-226—ANNEXURE —BACKGROUND DOCUMENT PREPARED BY DR D.B. BISHT FORCONSIDERATION BY THE EXECUTIVE BOARD AND WHOCONSEQUENT TO EB.74.R3It is rightly said that health may not be everything, but everything without health, is nothing. TheConstitution of the World Health Organization defines health as a "state of complete physical,mental and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease or infirmity". It is necessary,therefore, for health to be perceived in a more human perspective subjectively involving thequalitative values of life. Ignoring the semantics of the word, it can generally be conceded thatthere is "something" that makes us human beings, and hence, differentiating us from a pack ofwolves. Perhaps only then would it be possible to achieve the near perfect health as a state ofcomplete well being. Health can only be considered as a means to achieve the highest goal of lifeitself, and to consider health itself as a goal, is quite ambiguous in the evolution of humandevelopment. Achievement of "health" on the contrary should be the means to create a group ofhuman beings with all humane qualities. Thus, as life can only manifest out of a material base andthe mind out of a life base, so the spiritual can only manifest itself on a mental base or as a thinkingof the mind. The question for us is: How are we preparing ourselves to facilitate the emergence of

this spiritual man? This factor is of paramount importance. Blaise Pascal had said: "Man wishes tobe happy and only exists to be happy and cannot wish not to be happy? Using traditional wisdom,we can arrive at a reassuringly plain answer: Man's happiness is to more 'higher'; to develop his'highest' faculties.In his analysis of this concept, E.F. Schuhmacher has summarised the four levels of being as:Mineral = mPlant = m +xAnimal = m+x+yMan = m+x+y+zWhere m = inanimate matterx = life force (unexplained)y = consciousnessz = self-awarenessx, y and z are invisible; only m is visible.There has been commendable research work to determine a relation between consciousness andawareness, utilizing the animal model to fit in with the human being. Neither the study of physicsnor chemistry, or its interpretation into the life sciences, can explain this phenomenon and that isthe reason why it has been said that only man himself can be the real basis of the study of man.This can be achieved only be "self awareness", as Schuhmacher calls it, or "self-realisation", as SriAurobindo puts it. For this, it is necessary for man to transcend beyond the physical, mental andsocial parameters and deal with the qualitative values of life; the 'spiritual aspect,- "Factor X", whichconvincingly differentiates a human being froman animal.HINDUISM AND QUALITY OF LIFEDr G N Narayana ReddyFormer Director, NIMHANS, Bangalore-560029, IndiaABSTRACTThe edifice of Hindu life is to be truthful and loving to do the right. The foundation for this isknowledge - knowledge of world, knowledge of self and knowledge of God. The goal or the aim is toachieve full perfection of the self or liberation from bondages to merge with the Divine ultimately.The process involves the transformation of wordly life (animal life) to human and then to divine life.There cannot be any shortcut. Just as the physical discipline to maintain healthy body is essential,the moral values forms an indispensable preliminaries to maintain a good quality of life. The firsttwo fundamental stages described by Patanjali in his Astanga yoga are Yama and Niyama. Yama ismostly negative, consists of (a) Non-injury (Ahimsa), the others include truthfulness, sincerity in

thought word and deed."He whose mind is undisturbed in the midst of sorrows and amid pleasures is free from desire; fromwhom liking and fear and wrath have passed away, is the sage of settled understanding. Who in allthings is without affection though visited by this good or that evil and neither hates nor rejoices hisintelligence sits firmly founded in wisdom" - says Bhagavadgita.HINDUISMThe study to understand the human being in a comprehensive way, including health and well beingis as old as history itself. Hinduism, which is really the Sanatana Dharma, has given importance tounderstand the man as a whole and in relation to cosmos. It is difficult to define Hinduism. It is allcomprehensive, Hinduism is very much individualised, unlike organised or institutionalised religionswith dogmas. In addition, religious living in Hinduism is a blend of philosophy (theoretical,intellectual, reasoning) and practical experience. The Indian philosophy is dominated by synthetictradition which is essential to the spirit and method of Indian philosophy. True religioncomprehends all religions; hence the famous Sanskrit saying "God is one but men call him by manynames". Hinduism is evolved or derived from individual experiences and from spoken out truths byseers and sages. These experiences are attainable by every individual being. A distinctive feature isthat while it remains utterly loyal to the central eternaltruths, it admits the need for new dogmas and rituals to suit the changing conditions. The two greatepics - Ramayana and Mahabharata form the basis for the practical knowledge of truth andrighteousness. The eternal truths are propounded in S Shastras, where as Smiritis deal with thechanging patterns. Hinduism is fundamentally a way of life. The personal experience of practicingthe eternal truths is not only the central factor, but the single fact that counts for a Hindu. Thefundamental, eternal truths of Hinduism are :(1) Immannence of God - i.e. in nature, nothing exists without Him. He runs through all beings, aswell as the whole of this universe as a thread in the necklace. This indicates underlying unity in themidst of diversity.(2) Essential divinity of man. Every human being is potentially divine and the natural evolution is tomanifest this divinity.(3) Oneness of God: There is only one supreme God who manifests in different forms, names andways. Though different gods in different forms are worshipped, it is well understood that all aresame.(4) The Divinity of Soul: Each individual being is a part (Amsa) of divine and is capable of

transforming oneself into the divine being.(5) Unity of existence: There is no being whether moving or unmoving, that can exist without Godand nothing happens without His will. This is the basis of Hindu life.(6) Harmony of religions: Hinduism believes that the fundamental truths are eternal and universal incharacter. Therefore all religions have the same fundamental truths, though approaches differ. Sothere is no proselytization.TENETS OF HINDUISMa. God is one and exists both with and without form.b. God manifests in different forms with the underlying unity amidst diversity.c. He is all pervading. Nothing exists without Him and runs through life like a thread in fabric.d. Nothing happens without His will or grace - virtue or vice,e. Man is potentially divine and natural evolution is to manifest this potentiality,f. Man's aim in life is to make oneself divine, g. Each individual is a transmigration of his past life(reincarnation) along with his tendencies (Samskaras); and each has his own Swabhava (nature orpersonality),h. Spiritual progress made in one life is not lost and the ending of one stage will be the startingpoint in new life.i. Depending on the Swabhava (personality), one adopts his own field of action (Swadharma) andchooses a spiritual path.j. Diversity of taste and capacity has to be accepted as an ineffaceable fact of nature and has to beprovided for.HINDU CONCEPT OF BODY AND MINDAccording to Isopanisad, man consists of(i) Gross or physical body(ii) Subtle body or Antahkarana (Sukshma Sarlra) consisting of intellect (buddhi),mind (Manas), ego (ahankara) and ten sense organs (five for perception and fivefor action),(iii) Causal body (Karana Sarira): This is the body of acquired and inheritedtendencies, while(ivj The Atman (Soul) is the spectator of these bodies, a conscious existence through and apart fromthem and without which life does not exist. It is a self luminous source of energy and power for allactivities in the world. Therefore one has to rise above the body consciousness by refusing torecognize the body as Atman. A Hindu believes that Atman can be a friend or an enemy.Gita : Let a man lift himself up by his own self; Let him not depress himself; for he himself is hisfriend and he himself is his enemy. "To him who has conquered himself by himself, his own self is afriend, but to him who has not conquered himself, his own self is hostile like an external enemy". Asa result of this understanding, man qualitatively learns to know himself and master himself, and hehimself becomes steadfast, searches within himself for his failures and sufferings, develops an

attitude of fortitude. Further Atman is the same in all. This is the concept of unity among diversity.Gita states "to see self (Atman) in all and all in the self ". This will enable the individual to perceiveall beings as himself, brings in harmony and balance, leads to sharing of joy and sorrow with all, lackof hatred or jealousy towards anyone. The understanding of eternity of Atman and the transientnature of the body makes the person accept death with grace and subdues the fear of dying.THE SCIENCE OF LIFEThe Atman has triple status. These are (a) Lower Self - mutable, temporary and mobile (b) Higherself - immutable, immobile unit of the divine being and (c) Supreme Self- both of the above andeven greater than both together. Sri Krishna declares in Gita: "The individual soul is myself, in thecreation it is a partial manifestation of Me (mamiva amsah) and it possesses all my powers, it iswitness, giver of sanction, upholder, knower, Lord. It descends into the lower nature (self) andthinks itself bound by action, so to enjoy the lower being; it can draw back and know itself as thepossible immobile purusha (Higher self) free from all action ".The lower self consists of the physical body and subtle body. The working mind is influenced by (a)three gunas (qualities) - Sattva, Rajas and Tamas; and (b) Six passions - namely lust (Kama), anger(Krodha) avarice (Lobha) delusion (Moha) pride (Mada) and envy (Matsarya). The above threegunas are equivalent to wind (Vata), bile (Pitta) and Phlegm (Kapha) of Ayurvedic system ofmedicine and called asDoshas. Harmony of these three is the basis for good health. The higher self is the source of light,energy, reflection of which is seen in lower self, as Prakriti. All objects in the world are created byvarious combinations of the basic concrete elements (Pancabhutas) - ether, air, water, fire andearth. Each of these five forms the base of one of the five subtle properties of energy viz. sound,touch, form, taste and smell, which determines the way in which the mind perceives the objects.This forms the objective aspects of the world while the subtle and causal bodies forms thesubjective aspects.All life, all works are a transaction between the subjective and objective aspects of humanexperience. This interrelationship is complex and has to be fully understood, and the quality of lifedepends very much on the understanding of this fundamental interrelationship. It is only when bothsubjective and objective conditions are integrated in some way that there can be improved qualityof day to day living.(a) The Gunas may be defined as, Tamas-natures power of nascence, Rajas-power of active seeking,enlightened by desire and impulsion, Sattva-power of illuminated clarity, harmony and joy. The sixpassions which exist in every individual, but in varying degrees, some are dominating and others are

subdued. Sri Krishna declares "It is desire (Kama) it is wrath (Krodha) born of the energy of Rajas, alldevouring, all sinful; that, know thou, is the foe here.(b) The enemy of the whole world is desire or lust, from which all the evil comes to living beings.When obstructed by some cause desire is transformed into wrath. The senses, the mind, and reasonare said to be the seat of desires. Therefore it is essential to restrain the senses and control themind.LIBERATION FROM PASSIONSGita repeatedly stresses the need to be freed from selfish desire, wrath, fera and attraction. For thiswe have to learn to bear their shocks which can not be done without exposing ourselves to theircause. Three steps or means are advocated to overcome these passions :(a) Titiksa or Stoic Equality - making character its pivot, founds itself upon self-mastery by austereendurance.(b) Udasinata or Philosophic Equality - is the happier, and serener, prefers self-mastery byknowledge, by detachment, by a high intellectual indifference seated above the disturbances towhich our nature is prone.(c) Religious or Christian Equality - which is the perpetual kneeling or a prostrate resignation andsubmission to the will of God. Knowledge of Gunas and passions enable the individual develop stoicself discipline of endurance with serenity; eliminate selfish desires, slay egoism, not to envy others,to be equanimous, to be content with what obtains without repulsion or attachment and to restrainsenses. This also helps to transcend the duality of good and bad, pain and pleasure, sorrow andhappiness - they are related to Gunas and not self.VALUES OF LIFEThe edifice of Hindu life is to be truthful and loving to do the right. The foundation for this isknowledge - knowledge of world, knowledge of self and knowledge of God. The goal or the aim is toachieve full perfection of the self or liberation from bondages to merge with the Divine ultimately.The process involves the transformation of wordly life (animal life) to human and then to divine life.There cannot be any shortcut.1. Means and MethodsThe means and methods prescribed by Hinduism to achieve the above include the development ofphysical, mental, intellectual, moral and intutitional aspects of life. Importance of healthy body andhealthy mind has been repeatedly stressed in all the paths. The physical body of man is to betreated as a temple with all sacredness and also an important vehicle to carry man fromimperfection to perfection. Quality of life cannot be improved unless the body is strong andhealthy. Methods prescribed are:(i) Regular yogic exercises : Even the involuntary functions of body such as heart rate, B.P etc. can

be voluntarily regulated. The essential aspect is to do regular exercises, asanas (postures) etc. in afully relaxed manner and importantly to concentrate on what one is doing. Regular breathingexercises are a must. There is a relationship between breathing and actions of mind. A restless mindcan be gradually made calm by breathing exercises. The well developed technique of Pranayamaone type of breathing exercise - has been shown to be very effective.(ii) Habits: The common habits of taking food, sleeping, cleaning of the body, wearing clean clothesare discussed in Hinduism in detail. Gita "To him whose food and recreation are moderate, whoseexertion in action is moderate, whose sleep and waking are moderate, to him accrues yoga which isdestructive of pain". One of the common injunction is to avoid all forms of excessive indulgence inhis habits and particularly taking alcohol and sex. This regulated, disciplined habits will improve thequality of life.(iii) Food : Great importance is given to the type of food one takes and also to the mood (mentalattitude) while taking food. Hinduism stresses the point that food taken has direct effect on thernind. The same analogy is extended to all sensory inputs, such as sight, hearing, touch and smell.They do influence the qualities of the individual and character is moulded accordingly.2. Religiousness of Hinduism(i) Consists of daily prayers, rituals (Acharas) and worship of God.(ii) Provides different approaches - worship any form though rituals, devotional songs, namajapa(repetition of name of God or Mantra), or piligrimage, and results are assured accordingly.(iii) Encourages everybody however heinous. These methods provide quantitatively a great solaceand comfort, particularly when one is in distress or unwell, induces self confidence, enhances faithand trust in himself and in God. This routine can bring discipline in life.3. Moral and ethical values(a) Moral Values(i) Just as the physical discipline to maintain healthy body is essential, the moral values forms anindispensable preliminaries to maintain a good quality of life. The first two fundamental stagesdescribed by Patanjali in his Astanga yoga are Yama and Niyama. Yama is mostly negative, consistsof (a) Non-injury (Ahimsa),(ii) Truthfulness or sincerity of thought and word (Satya),(iii) Honesty or abstention from misappropriating others property (Asteya),(iv) Celibacy (Brahmacharya)(v) Not hoarding of possessions (Aparigraha).(vi) Niyama : It is cultivation of virtues. It consists of (a) purity (Saucha) (b) Contentment (Santosha)(c) Fortitude (Tapas) (d) Study of scriptures or acquisition of real knowledge (Swadhyaya) (e)Devotion to God or dedicating all one's deeds to Him (Ishwara - Pranidhana or surrender). Thus theregulation and control of moral life; a strict purity of both body and mind; Truthfulness in deed,

words and thought; abstinence from cruelty, stealth and sensual pleasures in thought as well as indeed, form the basic virtues to be followed by every one.(b) Ethical valuesEthics in Hinduism is derived from certain spiritual concepts. It forms the foundation of the spirituallife. Hindu ethics differs from modern scientific ethics which is largely influenced by biology, andwhatever is conductive to the continuous survival of a particular individual or species is consideredgood for it. It also differs from utilitarian ethics which is concerned mainly with the society. Hinduethics is mainly subjective or personal. The purpose is to eliminate the mental impurities such asgreed, egoism, cruelty, ruthlessness. Ethical disciplines are prescribed according to the stage andstate of each person. Hinduism has given more importance to personal or subjective ethics thansocial ethics. The reasons are :(i) If individuals are virtuous social welfare will follow as a matter of fact.(ii) The general moral tone in Hinduism is that every one is expected to do his appropriate duties,which includes rendering help to one's less fortunate fellow beings. The spiritual help is of moreenduring value than material help. Spiritual knowledge, by following the subjective or personalethics can easily bear the physical pain and privations, with calmness and patience(iii) Lastly, the Hindu philosophers believe that the sum total of physical happiness and sufferingremain constant. The chief components of subjective ethics are (a) austerity (b) self-control(iv) renunciation(v) non-attachment(vi) concentration. Austerity helps an individual to curb impulses for inordinate enjoyment ofphysical comforts and acquisition of intense thinking preceding creative work; making an individualindifferent about his/her personal comforts or discomforts. Self-control means guiding one's senseschoose the right objects by discrimination, determination and develop dispassion.The objective ethics is a means to an end. The purpose being to help the members of the society torid themselves of self centredness. Among the social virtues, hospitality, courtesy, duties to thefamily and community for social welfare are stressed. The ethical life in Hinduism emphasizes onleading a simple life, not to be greedy, to be charitable, compassionate, gentle, pious, conductive tothe welfare of others, provide succor to the distressed, be of service to all and to bear no ill-willtowards others.PURUSARTHASThe affirmative attitude of Hinduism towards life has been emphasised by its recognition of fourlegitimate and basic desires - the first three being Dharma (righteousness) Artha (wealth) Kama(Sense pleasure) are secular in the realm of wordly welfare (Abhudaya) and fourthly Moksha(Liberation from bondage or communion with God which is perfection (Nisreyasa).The fulfillment of Abhyudaya paves the way for Nisreyasa. Though Dharma is the basis, both Arthaand Kama are legitimate. The acquisition and possession of wealth are indispensable in the world.

Money must be earned and all efforts should follow Dharma. The Kama - enjoyment of sense -pleasure covers a vast area, including conjugal love, appreciation of art, music, poetry, beauty etc.Life becomes drab and gray unless one cultivates aesthetic sensitivity. But sense pleasures, if notpursued according to Dharma, degenerate into sensuality.Dharma : The key to the individual and social ethics of Hinduism is the conception of dharma. Theword signifies the law of inner growth by which a person is supported in his/her present state ofevolution and is shown the way to future development. Dharma determines an individuals properattitude towards the outer world and governs the mental and physical reactions in a given situation.It is the code of honour.Various lists of the general duties are found in scriptures. Manu Smriti reckons that the followingten injunctions are sufficient to attain the highest perfection. They are (1) contentment (2)forbearance (3) gentleness (4) respect for other's property(5) cleanliness (6) self-control (7) knowledge (8) philosophic wisdom (9) veacity (10) patience.Another list given by Yajnavalkya contain the same except for philosophic wisdom, but includesnonviolence. If these are negative and self-regarding, they generally point to the rights of others astheir correlatives. The great emphasis placed on negative virtues only means that self-denial is thevery soul of morality. "Their neglect is sure to lead to a lapse" observes Manu, "even if one practicesthe positive virtues with scrupulous care".Purusarthas underscore the importance of health and wealth to be acquired in a righteous way. Itinsists to follow one's own duty and not to give up obligatory functions, to keep the motives high.Personal vagaries are checked, personal desires are restrained. The above ten injunctions makes aperson to lead a high quality of life.Stages of life : Life, in Hinduism, is regarded as a journey to the shrine of truth. It is divided into fourstages. Each stage has its own aspirations, responsibilities, obligations and code of conduct. If theseare not fulfilled, the quality of life suffers and may end up as a miserable failure.The first stage is called Brahmacharya and starts after childhood. It is a period of training and study,as a preparation for future life. The individual has to cultivate the mind. He/She is trained not toswerve from truth and Dharma; never to indulge in slothfulness, nor seek luxury, not to neglectpersonal welfare and their obligations to family and society. The second stage is householder(Grihasta) after marriage. It is a period of training and study, as a preparation for future life. TheHindu ideal emphasises the individual and the social aspects of the institution of marriage.Hinduism recognises the inevitable; irreducible peculiarities between any two individuals; tastesand tempers, ideals and interests. The private or individual interests and inclinations are to besubordinated to a larger common ideal which can bind together the most unlike individuals. Sensual

love is to be sublimated into self-forgetful devotion and pure love. He should be ambitious, be asupport to the homeless and the destitute and always hospitable. This ideal life of a householder isone in which artha and kama are harmonised with Dharma. The third stage is retreat from wordlylife (Vanaprastha) arises when the responsibilities of home are handed over to their children. Themain purpose is to devote full time to the studies of scriptures and meditate on the higher spiritualproblems. Silence and solitude are preferred. To be in constant remembrance of God and eliminateall other thoughts. The fourth stage is renunciation (Sanyasa), when an individual renounces theworld and embraces the monastic life and turns away from the vanities of the world devotinghimself to the cultivation of God consciousness. In a journey through the four stages of life, a Hindulearns progressive, self-control and non-attachment to the transitory world, and inculcaterighteousness, responsibilities and accountability.THEORY OF KARMAEach life with all its pains and pleasures is the necessary result of the past lives and becomes in itsturn the cause through its own activities for future births 'What you sow, so you reap'. Each onerealises that whatever happens it is their own making and no one else is responsible. Every actionleads to two results - (a) direct observable result (Phala) of pain or pleasure and (b) establishes adisposition (Samskara), tendency to repeat the same deed. These tendencies are both acquired andhereditary, carried forward from previous births. The direct result cannot be escaped; but thetendencies can be changed or modified. Motive of any action is either selfish or unselfish. Selfishmotives may be for wealth, name, fame or power. If work done for the sake of work, even without amotive to go to heaven that becomes unselfish. 'That which is selfish is immoral and that which isunselfish is moral' says Swami Vivekananda. 'To work we have the rights, but not the fruits thereof.Understanding of this theory makes the person responsible and accountable for everything in life.When misfortune befalls no one is blamed. Such individuals are free from bitterness even in misery.It provides better scope to live rightly and do good for their own furtherance. Misfortunes andsuffering ennobles them to mould their character. They realise misery is a greater teacher thanhappiness and accept both pleasant and unpleasant as their own making and try to transcend thedualities of pain and pleasure.FAITH (SRADDHA)The action controlled by Sastras is an outcome of intellectual, ethical, aesthetic and religiousculture. This is the outcome of experience and wisdom. Faith or Sraddha is the acceptance and willto believe and realise this greater rule of Sastra. The religion, the ethical law and cultural idea in

which one develops faith, defines one's nature, work and an idea of relative right, or perfection, inproportion to one's sincerity and completeness of faith. This sraddha or faith is the basis for alltypes of living. Gita says "He obtains wisdom who is full of faith, who is devoted to it, and who hassubdued the senses. Having obtained wisdom, he attains the supreme peace". The next verse in theGita, says the ignorant, the faithless and one of doubting self is ruined. Sri Ramakrishna says "Oncea person has faith, he has achieved everything. There is nothing greater than faith".ROLE OF SANKALPA, SRADDHA AND SAMARPANASankalpa - is the intelligent will and commitment. Sri Aurobindo defines the yoga of intelligent willas " to act with right intelligence, and therefore, a right will, fixed in the one, aware of the one selfin all and acting out of its equal serenity, not running about in different directions under thousandimpulses of our superficial self. Gita says there are two types of intelligence in the human being.The first is concentrated, poised, one homogeneous, directed singly towards the truth; unity is itscharacter, concentrated fixity is its very being. In the other there is no single will, no unifiedintelligence, but only an endless number of ideas in pursuitof the desires. The first is the right will and the second is the wrong will. So man has to work withthe right intelligence will and have full commitment to whatever one does. This is Sankalpa. Whenan individual operates at this level the individual will be deeply involved, with all the responsibilityand accountability. One becomes more creative and promising. But this should always beassociated with the attitude of surrender and Shraddha, if not it will result in tension or despair.Sraddha (Faith) : The importance of faith in maintaining high quality of life is stressed. Faith willmake the individual develop intense interest in life and help to create an order within. Anythingdone without faith will lead to chaos and failure. But if one has full faith, one works hard withsincerity, and even the difficulties or sorrows that ensue are considered as Prasada (gift) from God.Samarpana (Surrender) : This is giving up the whole self to the Divine, with full devotion andconsideration of all our acts. But if the Surrender is not associated with the commitment to work,they may be restful, but, unless one is highly evolved spiritually when no work needs to be done,one may fall into Tamasic nature. Therefore, to lead a quality life of a high level, one should havethe intelligent will (Sankalpa) the attitude of Surrender (Samarpana) and work with all faith(Sraddha).QUALITIES OF A LIBERATED HINDUWith the realisation that the will of the supreme inspires in the cosmos and the human soul is only achannel of his power :

(a) no personal hopes and hence remains as part of cosmos.(b) does not seize on things as his personal belongings,(c) Covets nothing,(d) Jealous of none and no personal enemies(e) Whatever comes he takes without repulsion or attachment(f) What goes from him he allows to depart from him without repenting or grief or a sense of loss(g) Free from reaction to passion and sin(h) Wrath and hatred become foreign to him(i) Remains in a perfect state of inner joy and peace(j) Depends on nothing in the world(k) Remains beyond dualities (Dvandvatita) of promise and blame, honour anddishonour, sin and virtue - a state of equality and (1) Always acting for the good of others.SUMMARYTo sum up the quality of life depends largely on the mind which controls the body. The mind needsto be kept in peace or equipoise at all times by the use of one's intelligence (Buddhi) which is higherthan the mind itself. When the impurities of the mind are eliminated by discrimination, dispassionand renunciation the person will be in a state of psychological equipoise (Sthitapragna) withconstant intellectual alertness and emotional stability and will be at peace with self and others.LIVE ENERGY RESONANCE THERAPY(LERT)Dr P G KurupIndian Institute of Research and Application in IndologySanjivini Holistic Health Farm, P.B. No. 2, Kalrakka Vilai - 629 153, Tamil Nadu.Ph: 04651-60162, Fax : 60923ABSTRACTSlow paced walking on polished pebbled garden path, cakra exercises, Dhanya puja, Cetana crystalmeditation, auric diagnosis, cetana music etc., in the first phase of LER will help the healee'scapabilities to appreciate vibrational energy resonance upto the resonance frequency of sunlight. Inthe second phase of LER Therapy, the patient is prepared to accept vibrational frequencies upto10100 times the vibrational frequency of sunlight through various steps like magneto therapy. TheThird Phase consists of fusion of the organising field energy and thought field energy of healer andhealee. The patient now gets energy resonance of 10m times the vibrational energy of sunlight,which is the cosmic live energy. The cetana energy can be transferred to a glass of distilled water bythe healer which then becomes LERT fluid. This fluid can be taken by the patients to effect of theirailments.The subject of my talk today is Random Thoughts on Medicare of the 21st century. The advances in

the field of physics especially in the post Einsteinian Era of high energy particle physics and theadvances in the field of molecular biology, genetic engineering cloning with recombinant DNA, allpoint to one thing that the universe is only energy and that whatever matter is there, is only frozenparticularized energy. So man, animal, plant ,every thing is only energy-frozen particles of energy.Man is the most evolved of the three as he has evident mind and latent soul but my presumption isthat all the three - the physical body, etheric mind and spiritual soul are only energy waves ofdifferent vibrational frequencies and resonances. Thus Energy medicine will become the scientificHolistic Medicine from the 21st century onwards. In other words from 21st Century, health will bebased on subtle energy principles and interventions involving body-mind-soul trio against thebackground of the new paradigm shift of Echofeminism, social ecology and deep ecology andspirituality interpreted in the most advanced physical and biological sciences. This Holistic approachwill put an end to NYD cases which today constitute more than 15% of all hospital admissions (andcuriously these undiagnosed NYD cases also get treatment) and will give humane considerations,spiritual love and care in the management of terminal cases. Mind you, there will be no incurablecases then. They will then scoff at the present day modern medicine man for his emphasis ondisease rather than health. The advances in physical and biological sciences have ushered in theEinsteinean Era of energy medicine which is far away forwards from the 1800 AD Newtonian -Descartes ping pong atom theory of matter as the ultimate end to which the modern medicine manclings on with great religious fanatic favour characteristic of the materialistic scientism.I think now I have to take a little digression into a few of the latest advances in physics. Newton thegreat physicist, by 1800 AD, established the atom theory of matter. The atom is then described asthe ultimate indestructable particle and matter is constituted by these atoms which are like pingpongballs joining together in various permutations and combinations to form molecules which jointogether to form tissues, organs and the organism. So man is what he is, and what be has, in height,weight, wealth, education, socio-economic-political status. This was the basis of development ofhuman civilization in the 19th and 20th century and it is a really marvellous development in everyfield of human existence - medicine, science, arts, economics, sociology, education and evenpolitics. But science went ahead with farther discoveries and proved that atom is not the final endof matter and that it can also be broken down to its components- neutrons, electrons, positronsand the breaking of atom was associated with release of tremendous energy etc. So a holyintegration of body, mind and soul will become the basis of scientific medicare of the 21st century.

This is holistic medicine and we have advanced very much in this field through our spirituallyoriented Cetana Cikitsa with live vibrational resonance energy.If we study physics side by side with physiology we will find that there is a gradual evolutiontowards holistic medicine. The 1800 model of Newtonian Descartes Ping-Pong atom theory ofmatter with all attendant materialistic scientism tells us that every biological phenomenon can beunderstood on the basis of the sequence equation Function Structure Chemistry. Thisview is even now held by almost all, in the field of modern medicine. Any dysfunction of anorganism is due to structural defects in the organism which is from some chemical or biochemicalimbalance. At least a few eminent scientists and medical men have already started thinking of thepossibility of some deeper level vibrational energy structure for every organism including man.Scientists have proved the close links between chemical fields and EM fields. Researches intoNeurosciences have shown that application of small electric currents between specific brain pointsproduce behavioral changes similar to those seen with some Psychotropic and Psychedelic drugs.Minute DC currents applied to WBC produce regeneration while larger currents inducedegeneration. This phenomenon is used by orthopedicians to enhance fracture healing. Thus EMfieldshave an effective role in cell metabolism. Then the above equations gets structured to include theadded element of EMfields. Function Structure Biochemistry EM Fieldenergy. This is the science behind the Wolfs law of bone healing after/ fractures. Fibres andcollagen are both piezoelectric so an electrostatic field is produced with specific orientation andpolarity. This electrostatic field with its micro currents causes redistribution of both ions andcolloids in the surrounding tissue fluids to affect bones. The second equation also is defective inthat it ignores the mental factor. There is a close link between the conscious mind and the universalmind to both structure and function. Mind can control various autonomic body functions like pain.Mind can repair body. Mind can get brain tissue in general and hypothalamic-limbic system inparticular synthesize whatever is needed for the body even if it has to involve transmutationprocess. Certain chemicals influence mental states just as certain Mental states influence chemicalstates. So now you have to add this mental subtle energy field also to the equation which will readFunction Structure Chemistry EM fields Subtle energy fields. This is the equation bestsuited at the cellular level and at each step you get support from the factor on the right. Anyimbalance in any of these will disrupt homeostasis. So there is need for an early warning systemsome electrical devices to monitor bioelectric system (Now we do not have equipments to measurethe subtle energy system) (Volts Dermadron is an electromagnetic equipment that can selectremedies to correct the imbalance. Motoyama's AMI machine Squid, Kirlian gun are attempts tomeasure subtle energy fields.) The addition of subtle energy fields to the above equation makes itread as : Positive space/time entropy domain Physical chemistry EM energy fields subtleenergy fields ME energy fields Etheric Chemistry Negative space-time entropy

domain Functions positive space-time entropy domain. You see two different levels ofchemistry, physical and etheric and two different kinds of energy fields EMR and MER operate intwo different space - time entropy domains.There is a growing interest in Holistic medicine in the West as people clamor for nontoxictreatments. Emphasis on disease rather than on health had split apart allopathic and Ayurvedasystems of medicare. Significant bioenergetic principles emerge to develop the Einsteinian medicineand smash the Newtonian medicine.Recent trends in medicine reveal that modern physicians have begun to deal with finer and finerforms of energy vibrations for both diagnosis and treatment. The X-ray, U.S.S, C.T. Scan , M.R.I, theRadiation therapy are all convincing proof of a Continuing Paradigm shift towards recognition of thesubtle nature of our mind and body and the need for subtle approach to therapy. You don't kill flieswith shotguns nor do you manipulate electrons from an atom with hammers. Modern scientificmedicine is comparable to shot guns and hammers when you view it from the subtle energy curefor ailments - many human maladies can't be fixed with our current shot gun drugs and hammersurgery.You have to go up to finer and finer vibrational frequencies in the lighter cosmic reaches ofenergy where consciousness and physical body fuse together, mind and matter fuse together,where time losesits linearity. Only those healers who have alarmed cosmic level can heal and the energy medicinewill become the scientific holistic medicine of the 21st century. In other words 21st century healthwill be based on the subtle energy Principles and interventions involving mind-body-soul,environment and spirituality. This will be the holistic approach which can provide a new-hope formany a NYD cases, so called incurable illness, and the terminal illness. The doctors at the end of the21st century will look back with scorn at the doctors of the 20th century for their barbaric,unscientific, brutal, inhuman and their crude ways of diagnosis and treatment.We have to know a little more of the advances in Physics to understand the Tiller-Einstein model ofPositive - Negative space/time entropy. It is based on Einstien's theory of relativity equation S =MC2 But this is not the entire expression and is modified by the proportionality constant calledEinstein Lorenz transformation which is the relative factor to describe different parameters ofmeasurements of time, length, breadth, mass. All will vary with velocity. Enstiein's theory tells usthat the energy contained in a particle is equal to its mass- this is a tremendous amount of energyand the world had experienced with real agony, this truth in the atom bombs over Hiroshima &Nagasaki. From Einstein equation further studies led to the understanding of the multi diamentionalnature of the universe. Einstein suggested that matter and energy are interconvertable - sub atomicmatter is only condensed frozen particularized energy. This has lead to Einstein-Lorzen

transformation which states that if you accelerate a particle up to the speed of light its kineticenergy increases to KE = 1/2 MV2 where V=Velocity, M= Mass.It was thought that it was physically impossible to accelerate particle beyond the speed of lightwhich Einstein stipulated as the ultimate speed.There is thus exponential relationship between matter and energy at the velocity of the speed oflight. It was thought that you cannot accelerate the matter beyond the speed of light as thesolutions to problems there after leads to the imaginary number of square root of -1. You don't likeimaginary numbers in physics, so better set your maximum velocity limits to the speed of sun light.Then Mathematicians like Charles Muses came up with the concept of Hyper -numbers for thenumbers in the category of square root of -1. This has helped to explain subtle energy phenomenaof the inter actions of living systems and to explain the electromagnetic, magnetoelectric andquantum theories. This concept will help us to understand Einstein-Lorentz transformation better.POSITIVE - NEGATIVE SPACE / TIME MODELThis model tells you of the energy of a particle relative to its velocity from zero to speed of light andbeyond. Dr. Tiller calls the domain within the speed of light as domain of positive space/timeentropy and physical space-time Universe where particles, exist only up to the maximum vibrationsof the speed of light. The domain beyond the speed of light is the domain of negative space /timeentropy or negative space time universe. This concept of Dr. Tiller is confirmed with the discovery ofparticles known as tachyons which exist only at speeds exceeding speed of sunlight. Tachyons havevery special properties. If in positive space/time domain matter is associated with forces ofelectromagnetic radiation, in the negative space time domain it is associated with magnetism andmagneto-electric radiation. The physical atom has particles which are charged as positive, negativeor neutral. It conceives that magnetic monopolize particles magnetically charged either north orsouth can exist in nature in the tachyon realm and sadly enough we do not have any equipmentwhich can measure it.All superluminal velocities are in the negative space/time entropy domain:and negative space/timeparticles should have negative mass, and negative space/time matter would have properties ofnegative entropy. Entropy is tendency for disorder in a system, greater the entropy greater thedisorder. Matter in the physical universe is in the positive entropy with greater disorder leading todisintegration .The only exception is living system which can integrate various items of food into complex Proteins,Carbohydrates, fats and their conjugates. So man is in the;domain of negative entropy till he dieswhen the body moves over to the positive domain, as is seen by the disintegration of body after

death. So Cetana is associated with negative entropy character. If Cetana is in the negative entropydomain then all the Auric bodies are also in the negative entropy domain. This is the reason why thefirst layer of the Auric body - the etheric body, has a cell to cell representation of the physical bodyand the blue print upon which the physical body is built up. Like wise the Ketheric template of theseventh layer Auric body is the blue print for the etheric body.The negative space-time matter is magnetic in nature. The studies comparing the effects ofmagnetized water and LERT fluid shows that both have similar effects. This magnetic field is only apart of the broad spectrum of energetic vibfatibnal frequencies in the domain of negative entropywhich are different from the conventional magnetic field as is demonstrated with the use of thelatest measuring device, the Squid. The healing hand has magnetic activity of 13000 gauss, whichhas 26000 times more power than earth's magnetic field (0.5 gauss).Now permit me to introduce Energy vibrational resonance therapy which we have named CetanaTherapy through live energy resonance. This LER Therapy we feel will be the struggle to find as theultimate in self preservation and preservation of every thing on this earth - through religion,through spirituality and through a revolutionary Paradigm shift of ecofeminism, social ecology andDeep ecology. If the atom bomb power wins the effects of decimating every thing on this earth willbe far more disastrous than what earth had witnessed during the end of Atlantis civilization at thefag end of Treta Yuga. For the latter to win, spirituality should accept the garb of most modernscience, cast aside superstitions, religious, racial and cultural fundamentalism and egoism. Whenthis is translated into the health care field, you have to cast aside a lot of the present medicalscience which are based on Newtonian - Descartes materialism and go deeper and forwardsthrough Einstein, Miller, Bohr, Bolim and other Nobel prize winners to reach the Vedic Science ofIndia. A peep into the scientific aspect of Indian Spirituality through the spectacles of health andillness during the last quarter of a century at the Sanjivini Holistic Health Farm and Indian Instituteof Research and Applications in Indology has brought out what we firmly believe as the ultimate inMedicare System. We have named this as Chetana Chikitsa or Live Energy Resonance Therapy(LERT).The Sanskrit word Cetana has a much wider connotation than Prana, which is confined only to theapparently living beings of this Universe. Cetana is the force which is the subatomic tremendouspower pervading the universe and permeating every thing living and nonliving. Meditation andResearch into the available literature of Pre-Vedic, Vedic and Post-Vedic times have helped us to

formulate in a scientific way the concept of energy medicine and we have incorporated the varioussteps of realization of this concept in our Cetana Cikitsa which is now attracting the attention of theentire world.In the treatment with every form of therapy, the fundamental and most cardinal part is the properunderstanding and cooperation between the healer and the healee. This is especially so in LERT ofCetana Therapy which thus has two main components:(1)The meaning therapy of Intentionality by the patient where by under the guidance of the healerthe patient raises his level of appreciation of vibrational resonance frequencies to the upper limit ofPositive Entropy Domain (the vibrational frequency of the speed of sunlight) and(2) Other is the Being therapy of Assistance whereby the healer raises his energy appreciation levelto the negative entropy domain, beyond the limits of positive entropy domain and transfers healingenergy frequencies to the patient to cure his ailments. We have developed a phased programme toachieve this, which I will briefly enumerate here.At Brahma Muhurtam (4 AM) the healer and healee wake up to the sound of conch shell and seeingOM in the light of oil lamp. After morning routine and drinkingCetana Tea and Herbal health tonic they go through (1) The polished pebbled garden path toPunyavana to receive electromagnetic and green negative ion energy from the garden plants andthe trees of punyavana; Then they go to the Cetana and Yoga - Homa halls to do (2) Rechargingexercises ( 3 ) Cakral exercises (4) Meditation exercises (5) Kalari Smruthi. Then they take part in (6)Namo therapy, (7) Homa therapy and (8) Dhanya Puja for transfer of cosmic energy by the healer tothe healee. (9) This is followed by Cetana Pranayama (10) Cetana meditation and relaxation (11)Then Cetana crystal meditation (12) This is followed by a slow paced walk on the polished pebbledpathway, in the green tunnel to stimulate the reflex Marma points on the sole of the feet and to getthe negative ion-energy brought down by the green tunnel of flowering creepers. (13) The next isthe stimulation of marma points by medicated herbal powder (Udvarthanam) and epsom bath, jetbath, splash bath , Steam bath and shower bath. (14) This is followed by Satwik vegetarian breakfastof live green Salad, Idli, Satwik Saambar and fruits. (15) After breakfast the patient goes to theCetana hall and energizes himself in front of the lighted oil lamp. (16) Then his aura is swept cleanby the energized hands of the healer who cleans up the Cakras with the help of Camphor. (17) The

healer now makes an auric diagnosis of the healee's illness. He probes into childhood trauma, andthe relevant past births of the healee. Then he inducts energy into depleted Cakras and drains extraenergy from congested Cakras. (18) Thus the healee is given preliminary energy from CetanaInduction, Cetana Music and Color appropriate to his ailment, electrical equipments to transmit 9volt electricity into the healee to get rid of lurking slow virus particles and parasites , flower energywith appropriate flowers, tuning fork energy, argon energy etc. These steps in the first phase ofLERT will help the healee's capability to appreciate vibrational energy resonance up to theresonance frequency of sunlight. This is EMR phase of LERT. (19) Now the patient goes to thesecond phase of/ LERT. The intention here is to prepare him to accept vibrational frequencies up to10100 times the vibrational frequency of sunlight. This is done by magneto therapy where 2000 to4000 G magnetic power is used to induct energy. This will transfer energy of 1010 times thevibrational resonance of sunlight. This is the MER phase of LERT. The third phase of LERT consists infusion of the organizing field energy and thought field energy of healer and healee. This is O.T.fusion. (20) Now the healer gives Sakti therapy to the Sakti and Brahma Sarira of the healee. (21)This can transfer energy vibrations 1020 to 10100 times the vibrational frequency of sunlight. (22)The final phase is giving the LERT fluid 5 ml each for each of the affected Cakra and organ of thehealee chanting the appropriate mantras. The patient now gets energy resonance of 10100 timesthe vibrational energy of sunlight, which is the cosmic live energy.The LERT fluid is prepared during Dhanya Puja. Details of Dhanya Puja are given here. Thisincorporates flower energy, Crystal grid energy, Gem energy, Color energy, Sunlight energy,Pyramid energy, the Ultra Sonic Vibrational energy of mantras and last and most important thethought energy of the energized healer transferred into it from his Ajna Cakra through his PalmCakras, when he holds the glass of energized distilled water in his both Palms.This supercharged LERT fluid can cure any ailment from common ailments to allergic and autoimmune disorders, congenital and hereditary disorders, mental ailments and cancer. Even Aidspatients who have not damaged their etheric body by previous therapy can be helped by LERT.The main ritual through which we achieve the LERT is Dhanya Puja. This was a ritual commonlypracticed during the Atlantis civilization about 150000 Years back - a civilization completely losttoday. Here in the six corners of the Sat-Kona Yantra (the star of David pattern) with in a square,different pattern in Pancaloha are placed to absorb the Cosmic Energy which is augmented with thehelp of quartz crystals and appropriate flowers and coloured gems. In the centre of Sat-Kona areplaced Nirapara made of mature Jackfruit tree, ornamented with brass rings filled with paddy. Inthe centre on the surface of the paddy is placed in a small Nazhi made of mature bamboo,germinated paddy. In this are placed patterns of Ganesa in Quartz crystal and a quartz crystal lotuscontaining a small gold Ganesa, Om in Ivory, a crystal gem and small quartz crystal. In the Niraparain front of the Nazhi are placed a big amethyst crystal with two quartz crystals on either side, on

which are placed two Ruby Gems. In front of it are placed the big conglomeration of crystals and aspherical crystal with Navaratna embedded in a gold ring. Near the conglomeration of crystals is thesacrificial brass vessel (kindi) on which is placed gold plate decorated with the Navaratnas. These atthe centre act as the focal point of crystal energy grid. The cosmic energy collected by the patternsat the various comers in the Sat-Kona is augmented and directed to the focal crystals at the centre.There the energy level reaches to the level of 10100 of sunlight frequencies and will energize theperson to this energy level who does Cetana Pranayama, Cetana Meditation and Crystal Meditation.This tremendous cosmic energy is transferred through the central quartz lotus crystal in thegerminating Paddy Nazhi to the patient's Ajna Cakras chanting the Surya Gayatri Mantra.Om Bhaskaraya vidmaheOm Dyutikaraya dhimahiOm Tannoadityah prachodayahOm Japakusuma SankasamOm Kasupayam MahadyutimOm Tamo rim SarvapapajnamOm Pranatosmi DivakaramThis is LERT - The Live Energy Resonance Therapy or the ultimate medicine through Cetana Therapy.This energy can be transferred to a glass of distilled water by the healer who conducts the DhanyaPuja by holding the glass of water in his both palms and chanting the specific Mantra. This thenbecomes LERT fluid, which can be taken by the patients to effect cure of their ailments.EFFECTS OF YOGA IN THE AIRSICKNESS MANAGEMENTDr V Chandramohan, Air Cmde A K SenguptaDepartment of Psychology, Institute of Aerospace Medicine, Ministry of Defence, VimanapuraP.O. Bangalore-560 017Dr M S Thimmappa,Professor of psychology and registrar, Bangalore University Jnana Bharati, Bangalore-560 056ABSTRACTAirsickness results in wastage of flying time, effort and cost of training, hence, it is a greatconcern to authorities responsible for Flying Training Establishments. A number of nonpharmacopealmethods have been developed around the world for the management ofairsickness, however, these methods were not quite successful. Author discussed this problemwith many experts and visiting Flying Training Establishments and developed a hypothesis thatpossible yoga, relaxation and behaviour therapy could be effective in airsickness management.

Hence, the present study was undertaken. The behaviour therapy, along with certain selectedyogic exercises, is effective in the management of airsickness and this method seems to be oneof the most cost-effective and less time consuming method of airsickness management. Themethod of treatment suggested by this study has been accepted by Indian Air Force forrehabilitating airsickness cases with the aim of relighting them as quickly as possible.CORONARY ARTHEROSCLEROTIC REVERSAL POTENTIAL OF YOGA LIFE STYLE INTERVENTIONS C Manchanda MD, R Narang MD, U Sachdeva MDAdhyatma Sadhana Kendra, Chhattarpur, Mehrauli, New Delhi-110 030ABSTRACTIt is not very clear if lifestyle modification has any role in control of symptoms, progression ofcoronary lesions and prognosis in patients with advanced obstructive coronary artery disease. At theend of 1 year, the yoga groups showed significant improvement in number of anginal episodes. Yogalifestyle intervention is beneficial in improving the symptoms and excercise capacity, loweringweight and serum lipid levels. It also retards the progression of coronary artheroscleros is in patientswith severe coronary disease and reduces revascularisation procedures.A number of studies have documented that a change in lifestyle chiefly consisting of dietarymodifications, physical excersises and stress relaxation techniques results in reduction of cardiacevents in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). How¬ever, there is a paucity of studies todetermine whether lifestyle modification can result in regression of the coronary atheroscleroticplaques. Ornish et al observed a regression of coronary aterosclerotic obstruction by strict, lifestyleintervention. However the coronary stenoses were mild (40% and 43% diameter stenosis intreatement and control groups respectively) and the diet prescribed in their study was also verystringent, with only 5 mg of cholestrol allowed per day. It is likely that such strict control of diet maynot be practical for most patients. The present study was designed to assess the effects of strict but'user friendly' intervention using yoga lifestyle methods (with strict control of risk factors) on theangiographic severity of artherosclerotic obstructions in patients with advanced CAD (>70% luminaldaimeter stenosis in at least 1 vessel). The effects on symptoms, excercise capacity serum lipids andcardiovascular events were also analysed.AIMS AND OBJECTIVESThe objective of this study was to determine whether user-friendly yogic lifestyle interventionprogram (including yogic exercises, dietary management, moderate aerobic exercise and stressmanagement) with control of other risk factors can reverse the arthesclerotic obstructions inpatients known to have coronary artery disease.MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-two male patients (mean age 51.0 + 9.5 range 32-72 years) with angiographically proven CADwere included in this prospective, randomised, controlled trial. At baseline detailed clinicalassesment, serum lipid profile, treadmill excercise testing using modified Bruce protocol andcoronary arteriography were performed. Patients in the control group (n= 21) were managed onconventional medical theraphy (with cintrol of risk factors, AHA step 1 diet, moderate aerobicexertion), while those in the yoga group (n=21) were advised strict lifestyle modifications and yogicexcercises as detailed below. The medications for angina were continued. No patient was receivinglipiud-lowering drugs. The patients were followed for 1 year with regular assessments. At the end of1 year, the patients again underwent detailed clinical assesement, serum lipd profile, treadmillexcercise test and repeat coronary arteriography. Coronary arteriography was analysedquantitatively using the caliper method. All arteriograms were analysed by two independentblinded (blind- folded) observers. For coronary angiography the effect on individual lesions wascompared in 2 groups. Ethical clearance was obtained from the institutional ethics committee andall patients gave informed consent to take part in the study.THE BASELINE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE PATIENT POPULATIONMost patients were in NYHA functional class II (52% patients) or class III (41%). The patients in bothgroups had eleveated mean total and low density lipoprotein cholestrol. The study was conductedbefore the results of major in coronary artery disease were published and none of the patients wereon lipid lowering therapy. All patients had at least 1 mm ST segment depression during exercisetesting.KEY WORDSKayotsarg = Relaxation exercise to prepare the body and mind formeditation. Pranayama = Breathing exerciseAsanas = Yogic postures for stretch relaxation by performing asanas. The muslces are toned up,joints become flexible, body and the mind becomes lighter.Preksa Meditation = Seeing deeply within. This is the search of the self. The Samskrit equivelant ofthe term meditation is DhyanaAnuvrat and Anupreksa = Reflextion of the moral values being followed.Stress Management - Relaxation, breathing exercises and preksa meditationCoronary arteriography showed majority (81%) of patients to be having triple vessel disease.YOGA LIFESTYLE INTERVENTION PROGRAMAfter inclusion in the yoga group, patients, alongwith their spouses, spent 4 days at a yogaresidential centre, where they underwent training in various yogic life¬style techniques. The yogiclifestyle intervention program consisted of yogic life style method and stress management:YOGIC LIFESTYLE METHODS1. Health rejuvenating exercises: a set of movements for improving the general tone of the bodyand to improve co-ordination2. Relaxation exercise : a method of complete relaxation to prepare the body and mind formeditation (= Kayotsarg).

3. Breathing exercises (= Pranayama)4. Yogic postures for stretch relaxation (= Asanas)5. Seeing deeply within (= Preksa meditation)6. Reflection on moral values (= Anuvrat and Anupreksa)STRESS MANAGEMENT-Dietary control-Moderate aerobic exercises.Patients visited the yoga centre every fortnight for monitoring and evaluation. The compliance asreported by the patients themselves and by spouse, was recorded. In addition, the patients werefollowed every month in cardiac clinic of the hospital for clinical examinations and investigations.DIETARY CONTROLPatients were advised to take a low fat diet (mostly poly or mono unsaturated diet providing 15% ofcalories), low cholestrol (50% mg/d), high carbohydrate (mostly com¬plex, providing 65% ofcalories) diet. Patients were also encouraged to have high soluble fibre diets (>50 gm/d) consistingof vegetable and fruits, oat bran, soyabeans, gram and other beans. They were also prescribed15gm psyllium husk (almost entirely fibre) daily. In addition, the diet advised was rich inantioxidants (carrots for beta-carotene, fruits for vitamin C, nuts like almonds and walnuts forVitamin E and flavonoids from onions, coloured fruits and vegetables). Illustrative recipes andmenus with known nutritional values were provided to avoid monotony.The compliance of patients was assessed in a quantitative manner using a standard questionnaireand the score could range from 0 to 100.AN EVALUATION OF YOGA AS A THERAPY FOR CERTAIN AILMENTSDr Latha NityanandKrishnacharya Yoga Mandiram, # 12, Kandaswamy Street, 1st Floor, R K Mutt Road,Mandavelli, Chennai-600 028ABSTRACTMore and more people today are concerned about their health and well being. Dissatisfied withmodern medicine, patients are turning to alternative and complementary therapies. On gathering information pertaining to the clinical symptoms and case history and after establishing rapport, thetherapy was given. Based on this physio-psychological constitution and reported symptoms, eachpatient was given individualised Yoga Training once a week for a period of three months. Eachcourse designed consisted of asanas and pranayama which were modified and adapted to suitindividual needs. The perennial philosophy of yoga is so broad that it can accomodate within itsrange, people of all backgrounds, tastes and temperaments.STRESS AND GENESDr PadmanabhanProfessor emiratus, Dept. of Molecular Biology, visiting Professor for Chicago University

ABSTRACTThe blue print of life is now known through DNA. Basically we believe there are 70,000 proteins thatare responsible for life process. The food we take in is oxidized in the body is metabolizing the body.Energy is stored and utilized. Information present in the DNA has to be decoded. It is decoded in theform of proteins. All of us have 99.99 % identical DNA. But why do we look different ? This is becausethe way genes express is very individualistic, depending on the micro or macro environ¬ment. ThisDNA has information blocks and there are about 3 billion such blocks. They have got to be arrangedin a perticular order which is called sequence. This information of how genes are differentiallyexpressed has been uncovered by science and the credit goes to it.What has modern genetics achieved? Where genetic will be found inadequate, of course it is goingto be a biased presentation. Very briefly let me explain what genetics have achieved in fewdecades. We now know the blue print of life basically. It is the DNA. This DNA has informationblocks. 3 billion information blocks have to be arranged in a particular order, what we call it asequence and once the sequence is known we know what information is present in this DNA. It isbasically the life process is encoded in this DNA and this information has to be decoded. How it isdecoded ? It is decoded in the form of proteins.The genes has to be 70000 genes + or - 10%, 20% it really doesn't matter. Basically we believe thereare 70000 proteins approximately that are responsible for life processes. When we say life processfor example - the food we take is oxidized in the body is metabolizing the body, energy is stored andthe energy is utilised. All these are enzymatic processes involving proteins for which information ispresent in the DNA. Every aspect of life the physical exercise we do, the behavioural aspectseverything today is codified or at least one believes it is codified in these 70000 genes. That's why Isaid we basically understand the blue print of life that all the information for all the activities of lifeincluding the behavioural characters are encoded in this genes. And what had really happened intwo decades is that we are able to manipulate death, birth, (increase in life expectancy) Ex - birth ofDolly, is the sheep born out of a cell of two female sheep. One cell was taken from one sheep andthe other cell was put into the X cell of other sheep after removing the nucleus of the cell and fullblown sheep was born when of course exactly was identical to the sheep which donated thenucleus. It is an exciting operation because we believe that mammals have lost toty potency unlike

plants because they are able to re-programme an adult cell, like a liver cell. This has given rise to theidea of clone in human beings.Theoretically it is possible but technically we do not know as yet. When cloned physically it may bedifferent that is because the behaviour depends on the sum total of information we all have plushow this information we all have plus how this information is modulated and expressed. All of ushave 99.99% identical DNA. But why do we look different? Even we do not look alike except foridentical twins. This is because the way genes express is very individualistic, depending on the microenvironment, macro environment. What do I mean by expression? Again in terms of proteins someproteins are made, some proteins are not made, some proteins are made for sometime and shut offand this pattern of 70000 proteins varies from individual to individual. That's why we are alldifferent.Not because the information content is different the information content is similar, that's thereason why a primordial cell for example which is formed by the fusion of egg and sperm, how doesit differentiate giving the brain, giving the liver, the heart? The information content is same as thatof the liver, heart or brain, but there has been a process by which this got differentiated intodifferent lineages as we called it. Because again the pattern of expression of genes is different thelineage that takes you to the brain, the lineage that takes you to liver, the lineage that takes you toheart is different, the pattern of expression is different. But where we get stuck is what is the Quewhat is the trigger that makes it to express differently. We may say this hormone, that hormone butwhat is the primary one that really is responsible to cause this differential lineages to takes place.This kind of tremendous progress that has been achieved, we have to give credit to science that thisinformation of how genes are differentially expressed, what is the difference between a normal celland a cancer cell. We understand a great deal about this and the applications have really becomepossible to clone the genes by knowing the sequence of gene and once we know about it, it may bepossible to find out why some persons are susceptive to infectious disease etc. Genetic disorders -there are 5000 disorders where the genes are mutated like sickle cell anemia, thalasemia, dushenmuscular dystrophy. And today we know at least 75 genetics disorders exactly. What is the exactmolecular defect that has taken place, and this information helps you to diagnose, the diagnosis hasundergone a revolution from infectious diseases to genetic disorders. You have today powerful

diagnostic procedures, and this concept of Gene therapy has come. Now there is a hope that anormal gene can replace a defective gene, it is called gene therapy. It is at an experimental level.The modern genetics have pushed gene knowledge into mind-boggling levels. Now we know whathappens in aging why anybody ages and how you can prevent aging cells called apeptosis. Cells areprogrammed to die. So there is a tremendous knowledge that is built up.If you look at questions like, the origin of species, origin of universe, origin of life we really see thatit is a matter of debate. It is not like today's perception like which gene is mutated, which gene isexpressed, which gene is not, but that kind of finality, I cannot talk about the origin of life. What isthe present perception of origin of life? There are certain gases - may be nitrogen, oxygen,hydrogen and carbon and there was an electric ark and then all these condensed and we haveprimitive molecules amonia, hydrocynic acids. And condensed to form aminoacids, and aminoacidsformed proteins and these purine pyremidienes formed nucleic acids and it was enclosed in amembrane and that is the primitive cells. The question is when did the cell start living? All theabove can be created like amino acids, proteins, artificial membranes, crystals we can make it form,grow, destroy but it does not have life.What is it that makes the 'LIVING' in these things? If we study the Darwin's theory, he says therewere few organisms like this and life was breathed into this. Then comes the question of what is itthat life was breathed into this? I am not very sure if science will ever be able to catch up this kindof questions. Like when does actually the process of living start.? Can it be defined in terms ofmolecular biology, biochemistry, in terms of physics? The same problem you have for the origin ofspecies as Darwin's is the sequential evolution we call it.There are also alternative theories of evolution. There are people who believe Darwin is not right.There are arguments that this primordial pond, where all these gene assembly took place and maybe it is not just few cells, may be it is complex cells which were already existing in it.Even the genetic mutations and evolution is not adequate to give the answer to the origin ofspecies. It is only an argument. A frog can give birth to a frog so on so forth. Suffice to say but someof the theories are not absolute. Even the origin of universe one talks of big bang credibility, thereare also people who do not believe that. The question is before big bang what was it, how thingsexisted who is responsible for that kind of things? So whether you take origin of species, origin oflife or origin of universe, science can go up to a point and end up with a situation where you are notable to explain the situation and this is not undermining science, science has a place in evolution. Soyou feel that somewhere somebody or even you can call it nature, are regulating the things,

somebody has programmed this DNA and he must be a super scientist that may be GOD.REJUVENATING THE AGED WITH SELF PROGRAMDr Shaila Shibad MDBhavani Hospital, No. 4, Anand Mayee, Anand Niketan Society, Karvenagar,Pane - 411 052. ©365016. e-mail: suups @ usa.netABSTRACTIt is now accepted that the life style change suggested by Dean Ornish Programme for ReversingHeart Disease (DORH), although may not reverse heart disease in every individual case, it can haltthe progress of the disease. Yoga techniques which provide better self awareness and relaxationmay offer additional benefits when incorporated into DORH. To study whether addition of a SELFProgram of yoga to DORH Programme could give any additional benefit in patients with heartdisease.3.3 ORAL PRESENTATIONSYOGA - MEDITATION AND HEALTHDr K V Ranga Rao, Ph D (Director)Energy and Radiation Research Foundation,2-2-647/182/4 MEH 173, Sarda Nagar, Street No. 3,Bagh Amberpeth, Hyderabad - 500 013.ABSTRACTSince last four and half years I have been interested in energy radiations and their effects on livingbeings and found that thought and energy are behind any system of healing through any system ofmedicine. The major causes of chronic diseases are; exposure to non-ionising radiation (NIR) andEmotions Measurement of energy radiations have revealed many interesting results.The objectives behind the study were: * Role of NIR in causation of chronic illnesses, * To find outtechniques to neutralise the negative effects of NIR on human system, To measure total energy levelof people, places and objects. Yoga practices of asana and pranayama can only help temporarilyunless accompanied by life style modification by Yama and Niyama, cultivation of noble qualities likelove, compassion forgiveness and Manava sfva and only this can have long lasting healing power.Yoga has been interpreted in various ways by various people and practiced by different people indifferent ways. The real meaning of Yoga as per Upanishads and Patanjali is "THE CONTROL OFTHOUGHT WAVES IN THE MIND". It means removal of all negative thoughts and emotions, acquirepositive thoughts and emotions. By practicing Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi you will be able torealise divinity and liberation and self realization. So, all the future research on Yoga should beconcentrated on methods to remove negative emotions and thoughts and develop methods toteach positive emotions and thoughts. I have so far not come across any scriptural literature on

Yoga where healing is supposed to occur by Yoga practices, though a lot of Yoga practitioners useYoga for healing. Excellent results can be obtained in healing, the quality of life of the individual,happiness, etc.. All the 20 Upanishads which talk about Yoga and meditation and Patanjali do nottalk of Mantras in meditation and healing. Automatically healing, liberation, realisation, happiness,spirituality will come. How many people have become spiritual of the millions of the peoplemeditating and practicing Yoga ? Neither the Upanishads nor Yoga Sutras talk about any healing ofany disease due to any Yogic methods. I measured the energy levels of 10 yoga practitioners atthree Yoga centers at Visakhapatnam three years back. As the students were practicing prayer,pranayama, and Meditation for 35 to 40 minutes, I measured the initial energy levels of people.When meditation ended the negative energy level slowly increased to +8,000, +9,000 and 12,000. Ican interpret all scriptural practices, rituals etc. social, superstitions, Pujas, Yajnas, mantrasrecitation, scientifically by energy measurements. Of all the food items next to cow's milk productturmeric has highest positive energy level. I can teach people dowsing. The scriptures never talkedof any healing benefits from Yoga and Meditation but they only mention spiritual power can beobtained by Yoga and Meditation.PATANJALI ASHTANGAYOGA1) Yama - Abstention from harming other,falsehood, theft, incontinence and greed.Mental Exercisesfor removingNegative Qualitiesand Emotions2)Niyama - Purity, contentment,mortification, study anddevotion to God.3) Asana Physically4) Pranayama improves5) Pratyahara Health6) Dharana SpiritualSelf realisation or liberations,Siddhis etc.,7) Dhyana8) SamadhiThe 358 research papers on TM/TM Siddhi show slight improvement, or reduction in condition ofthe diseases like B.P, Diabetes etc., slight increase in performance of physical, physiological,neurological factors.WHAT IS HEALTH ?Good health helps people to achieve their goals and enjoy Life to full.Thought gets converted into energy and heals people. All the therapies cure the disease or thesymptoms of the disease but not the cause of any chronic disease.Since I have some simple methods not only to neutralise the negativity acquired by people but alsoincrease the Vital energy to that of great Saints, I started using these methods of neutralising andenergising people to improve their health. Those without emotions got cured.

I found out various causes (20) for many chronic disease like Diabetes, B.P., Cancer, AIDS, Asthmaetc., all the therapies cure the disease or the symptoms of the disease but not the real causes of thedisease.The major cause are: 1. Exposure to non-ionising radiations (NIR) 2. Emotions 3. Disti.Unless the exposure to NIR is neutralized and if possible energized, no chronic disease can bepermanently cured.Apparently in the Vedic period people lived happily, and were healthy because of the high positiveenergy level they used to acquire during Yajfias. Now a days, high energy level is produced duringthe Yajna (in both the place and people) but as soon as the fire is extinguished, the energy leveldisappears at the place and from the people. Since Yajfias did not solve my mass energisationproblem, I thought Yoga and meditation may help. The second floor of my house is havingextremely high positive energy level, probably the highest energy level at any place that I have sofar visited and measured.LET ME PRESENT A FEW FACTS1. 20 Pranic healers sitting in my place for about 21 to 22 hours acquired high positive energy. TheirSahasrara Cakra and other Cakras expanded to 3 feet their AURAs increased 18 to 20 feet and theyare still retaining these energy levels after 8 months.2. One T.M. Siddhi Student who can fly after Siddhi Meditation. In his college he could fly 22 timesafter 50 minutes of TM/TM Siddhi Meditation and had to rest for 45 minutes to come back tonormal. His energy level slowly peaked to 2800 units when started flying. Two hours after the jump,he lost the energy he acquired, during meditation his energy level increased to 10,000 units, he flew42 times and after 6 minutes of rest he came back to normal, fully fresh and energetic, with hisSahasrara Cakra expanding to 3 feet and his AURA about 15 feet which he is still retaining after 4months.Then practice noble qualities like Love, Compassion, Forgiveness etc., simply by practicing ManavaSeva and noble qualities like Love, Compassion, forgiveness etc., people have acquired someamount of spirituality and gained some vital energy, without doing any Yoga, Meditation, Poojaetc., I have confirmed this after checking about 20 people who arc absolutely ignorant of anymeditation system. Manava Seva and Noble qualities will lead to self realization. Siddhasana,Padmasana are required for prolonged Meditation. Meditation is considered to be stilling the mind.BENEFITS OF MEDITATIONDuring meditation the Energy level increases and if it is retained, a number of benefits occur - Somesuch changes are:1. Metabolic Changes2. Electro Physiological Changes3. Health

4. Improvement in Motor, Perceptual ability and Athletic Performance5. Intelligence, Learning and Academic performance improves6. Development of personality7. Biochemical and Cardiovascular changes8. Quality of life and productivity9. Increased creativity10. Increased energy and dynamism11. Freedom from stress12. Increased resistance to disease13. A number of other benefits.METHODS TRIED TO NEUTRALIZE PEOPLE1. Yoga - Meditation2. Yantras - Sri Cakra and other powerful geometric patterns etc.,3. Mantras - Gayatri, Visnu, Lalita Sahasranamas etc.,4. Yajfias / Homas - I have found only at 5 places out of the 182 there waspositive energy which remained even today.5. Music - Certain type of Music and dance produce lot of positivevibrations. Some type of music produce very strong negative vibrations. In most of the cases theenergy produced by music does not remain in people and places.6. Recitation of - GIta, Ramayana, Mahabharata, Vedas etc., Holy Bible,Holy scriptures Koran and other religious scriptures of any religion.7. Exposing to very strong positive radiations like the radiations in my houseand some temples which are very highly positive.You are all aware of emotions can be a major cause for chronic diseases. You are not aware thatnon-ionising radiations are the most important primary cause for any chronic disease includingCancer and AIDS. Another important cause you are not aware is Evil Thought, Evil Eye (Disti/Nazar),of others going upto black magic, causing some chronic diseases, I have so far treated 50 peoplewith different chronic diseases, some time unexplained, some times with pains all over the body,without clinical test not showing any diseases, who are effected only by Disti (Evil Thought) All themedical records show that all clinical tests show nothing is wrong but they suffer for years. Byremoving Disti all of them got cured whose only cause is Disti in a very short time.SAMADHIRealisation, Liberation or truth is nothing but to realise you are divine (God), Every child is borndivine. Their Sahasrara Chakra is open upto 8 years when Upanayanam is performed to boost thelost energy. Every one is divine which we are not told or we can understand.To carry out research to make people continue their divinity is my aim in life. I promisedSankaracharya of Kanchi that I will make every man a saint physically, mentally and spiritually andevery house a temple. The methods are very inexpensive, simple and takes very little time, withinless than a minute. I can help a great deal if any one wants to conduct research on this aspect.T M SIDDHIBy making Samyama concentration, meditation and absorption (Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi) onthe relation between the body and the ether or by acquiring through meditation the lightness of

cotton fiber, the Yogi can fly through the air. Through mastering of Samyana, on different aspects,various powers can be obtained.RESEARCH ON YOGA AND MEDITATIONAny type of meditation, Yoga Nidra, Silva mind control. Asanas, Pranayama, Kriyas, Bandhas (notmentioned in Yoga texts). Many people get healed due to faith. Placebo effect, Suggestions andAuto suggestion, I have earned out lot of research on faith and miraculous healing. From the studyof 358 scientific research papers on TM/TM Siddhi I found that most of the healing was onlyreduction in problems but not a total cure or permanent cure. Mostly people who regularly practiceyoga show better results but not total cure.METABOLIC CHANGES DURING YOGA PRACTICE - A REVIEWM S Chaya, Dr H R Nagendra, Dr G L KhannaVivekananda Kendra Yoga Research Foundation # 9, Appajappa Agrahara, Chamarajapet, Bangalore- 560 018.ABSTRACTThe vital role played by yoga i.e. physical fitness, fitness related to health, skill and performance hasassumed tremendous importance in recent times. A review, of research papers on yoga practices,physical exercises and its relation to metabolic changes is conducted at Vivekananda Kendra YogaResearch Foundation, Jigani, Bangalore. The goal of the review was to establish a comprehensiveliterature review and provide a rationale for future research concerning metabolic changes duringyoga practice. Computer searches were conducted using medline, pubmed, along with librarysearch, and review of published journals and standard textbooks.An elaborate list of energy expenditure pattern of various physical activities is available but littledocumented for yogic exercises. Reviews are not large and need extensive research coverage. Thereis lack of replicated studies which will confirm the methods results. Evidences suggest yoga as amind/ body approach which has very vast application.The vital role played by yoga i.e. physical fitness, fitness related to health, skill and performance hasassumed tremendous importance in recent times. The life style changes leading to positive energybalances has been the causative factor for many of the metabolic disorders like hypertension,diabetes malites, cardio vascular diseases and obesity and related problems. Yoga, which is a timetestedmethod, has shown great positive influence on physical, mental, psychological, social andspiritual personalities of a person. With the above in background various research works have beenundertaken to measure the changes that takes place during yoga practice. The measurement ofmetabolic changes is one of them.

METABOLISMIt is a process by which nutrition material of the food we take is built into (anabolism) and brokendownto give energy (catabolism). The expenditure of energy is measured in terms of K Cal byrespiratory quotient (RQ = CO2/O2).MEASUREMENT OF METABOLIC RATEConcern for physical activity levels was shown as early as 1900 by Mr. Hitscok, who observed thatphysical fitness level in school children was below normal. In 1922, American Physical EducationAssociation came out with a physical fitness index. Thereafter a lot of physical fitness tests andmeasurements have been developed to assess physical fitness.The modern day procedure includes height/weight ratio, skin fold thickness, chest measurement,body composition table, blood pressure assessment, cable tension meter, ergometer, treadmill,brain function tests, stress tests, Co2 expulsion, O2 uptake etc.RESEARCH REVIEWSome of the major research works have been highlighted here. Though it is not exhaustive it doesprovide us with a glimpse into the type of research done at various centers on yoga meditation andpranayama etc.PUBLISHED RESEARCH WORK1. Toor S (1996) in a study "comparative effect of ten weeks modified strength training on aerobicand anaerobic capacity" conducted concludes that the strength training has improved aerobic andanaerobic capacity significantly.2. Beta TK, Rajapurkar MV (1990) in their study "somoto type as an indicator to the performanceability ........" concludes that there was significant correlationbetween the somoto type scores and the mean performance of asanas and endomorphic physiquehave lower performance in selected asanas.3. Kalidasan R et al (1998) in their study "influence of training with and without selected yogicpractices ......." concludes that the performance of the boys whohad training with yogic practices was better in technical skills and performances than those of othergroups.4. Telles S et al (1991) in their study "oxygen consumption during pranayamic type of very slow ratebreathing" showed that Kumbhak pranayamic breathing caused a statistically significant increase(52%) in oxygen consumption (and metabolic rate) compared to the prepranayamic baseline periodof breathing and the different types of pranayamic breathing may lead to different types of oxygenconsumption and metabolic rate

5. Helaine M Alessio and Eileen R Blasi in their research "physical activity - a natural antioxidantbooster and its effect on health and life span" concludes that the physical activity appears toenhance antioxidants in proportion to the exercises is due to oxidation stress.6. Pratap V, Berrettini WH, Smith C (1978) in their study on 'Arterial blood gases in pranayamapractice' concluded that Pranayama is a yogic breathing practice which is known experimentally toproduce a profound calming effect on the mind.7. Keller s, Seraganian P (1984) in their study 'Physical fitness level and autonomic reactivity topsychological stress' explored the influence of aerobic fitness level on autonomic reactivity topsychological stress in their studies.8. Raju PS et al (1986) in their study on 'Effect of yoga on exercise tolerance innormal healthy volunteers' selected 12 normal healthy volunteers. The volunteers were taught onlypranayama and later on yogasanas were added. Minute ventilation and oxygen consumption wereestimated before and during the test. Post exercise blood lactate was elevated significantly duringinitial and phase-I but not in phase-II. There was significant reduction of minute ventilation andoxygen consumption only in males in phase-I and II at the time when the volunteers reached their80% of the predicted heart rate. Female volunteers were able to go to higher loads of exercise inphase I and II.9. Blumenthal JA et al (1991) in their study "Long-term effects of exercise on psychologicalfunctioning in older men and women" determined the psychological, behavioral, and cognitivechanges associated with up to 14 months of aerobic exercise training. Results indicated thatsubjects experienced a 10-15% improvement in aerobic capacity.10. Balasubramanian B, Pansare MS (1991) in their study "Effect of yoga on aerobic and anaerobicpower of muscles" inferred that aerobic power (VO2 max) and anaerobic power were estimated inmedical students before and after 6 weeks of yoga training. A significant increase in aerobic powerand a significant decrease in anaerobic power was observed. This may be due to conversion ofsome of the Fast Twitch(FT) muscle fibres into Slow Twitch fibres (ST) during yoga training.11. Rai L, Ram K(1993) in their study "Energy expenditure and ventilatory responses during Virasana- a yogic standing posture" studied the energy expenditure and ventilatory responses to yogicstanding posture of Virasana on 10 healthy men. The parameter used were minute ventilation,respiratory frequency (RF) tidal volume, oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide eliminaiton,respiratory exchange ratio, heart frequency, oxygen pulse, ventilatory equivalent, multiple ofresting (VO2) and metabolic cost.12. Brea TK, Rajapurkar MV (1993) in their study "body composition, cardiovascular endurance andanaerobic power of yogic practitioner" revealed that a significant improvement in ideal body

weight, body density, cardiovascular endurance and anaerobic power was observed as a result ofyoga training and did not show significant change in body fat, skeletal diameter and bodycircumferences.13. Schell FJ et al (1994) in their study "Physiological and psychological effects of hatayoga exercisesin healthy women" measured heart, blood pressure, harmones cartisol, prolactin and growthharmones and certain psychological parameters in a yoga practicing group of young females. Therewas no difference in the group concerning endocrine parameters and blood pressure. The course ofheart rate was significantly different.14. Rai L, Ram K et al (1994) in their study "energy expenditure and ventilatory responses duringsiddhasana - a yogic seated posture" observed various cardioventilatory responses and found outthat the posture was characterised by greater minute ventilation, larger tidal volume, higher oxygenconsumption, greater carbon dioxide elimination, higher heart frequency and greater oxygenpulse. The observation suggests that siddhasana is a mild type of exercise and may have itsapplications in conditions of low cardiorespiratory reserves especially in individuals in whom heavyexercises are contra indicated.DISCUSSIONS AND CONCLUSIONThe above establishes the role played by yoga in fitness, fitness in relation to health, skill andperformance. Though this study was done in small groups the results are significant and moreresearch need to be done in yogic exercises and its effect on physical, emotional and spiritualdimensions and the therapeutic applications.There is vast scope for research in this field and as the benefits of yoga unravelsitself the awareness will increase. Yoga can be taken up for intense research andapplied for betterment of day to day life. Yoga is a mind/body approach, which hasvery vast application.REFERENCES1. Balasubramanian B, Pansare MS. Effect of yoga on aerobic and anaerobic power of muscles.Indian J Physiol pharmacol 1991 Oct;35(4):281-282.2. Bera TK, Rajapurkar MV. Somoto type as an indicator to the performance ability of selectedyogasanas. National Institute of Sports, Scientific Journal Vol 13, No. 3, July 1990.3. Bera TK, Rajapurkar MV. Body composition, cardiovascular endurance and anaerobic power ofyogic practitioner. Indian J Physiol Pharmacol 1993 Jul; 37(3):225-8.4. Blumenthal JA et al. Cardiovascular and behavioral effects of aerobic exercise training in healthyolder men and women. J Gerontol 1989 Sep;44(5):147-57.5. Blumenthal JA et al. Long term effects of exercise on psychological functioning in older men andwomen. J Gerontol 1991 Nov; 46(6):352-616. Helaine M Alessio, Eileen R Blaskh. Physical activity as a natural antioxidant booster and its effecton health and life span. Research quarterly for exercise and sports Vol 68 No. 4, 292-302 1997.

7. Kalidasan R. Gosh SK et al . Influence of training with and without selected yogic practices on thetest match skill level among cricketers. Sports Authority of India, Scientific Journal Vol 21(1) 25-281998.8. Keller S, Seraganian P. Physical fitness level and anatomic reacivity to psycho social stress. Journalof psychosom research 1984;28(4):279-87.9. Margret J Safrit. Introduction to measurement in physical education and exercise science. 1992.Human kinetic publishing USA.10. Margret J Safrit, Terry M Wood. Measurement concept in physical education and exercisescience. Human kinetic group, 1989. USA.11. Pratap V, Berrettini WH, Smith C . Arterial blood gases in pranayama practice. Percept Mot Skills1978Feb;46(l) : 171-412. Rai L, Ram K et al. Energy expenditure and ventilatory responses during siddhasana- a yogicseated posture. Indian journal Physiol Pharmacol 1994 Jan;38(l):29-33.13. Raju PS, Kumar KA et al. Effect of yoga on exercise tolerance in normal healthy volunteers.Indian J Physiol Pharmacol 1986 Apr-Jun;30(2):121-32.14. Rai L Ram K. Energy expenditure and ventilatory responses during Virasana - a yogic standingposture. Indian Journal Physiol Pharmacol 1993 Jan ;37 (1): 45-50.15. Schell FJ, Alien B. Schonecke OW. Physiological and psychological effects of hatayoga exercise inhealthy women. International journal of psychosom. 1994;41(l-4):46-52.16. Thomas (Jerry R) and Nelson (Jack K). Research methods in physical activity 1990. Human kineticgroup USA.17. Telles S., Desiraju; Oxygen consumption during pranayamic type of very slow rate breathing.Indian journal of medical research 94(B);357-363. 1991.18. Thorpe (Jo Anne). Methods of research in physical education. 1980Toor DS. Comparative effectof 10 weeks modified strength training on aerobic and anaerobic capacity. Indian journal of sports,science and physical education Vol 8, 19-22, 1996.EFFECT OF SELECTED YOGIC PRACTICES ON MENSTRUAL DISCOMFORTSRajani NirmalResearch ScholarABSTRACTIntroduction: Stress is known to be an important factor that could be responsible for menstrualproblems in teenaged girls. The abonormality could be corrected if yoga can reduce the stresslevels. The present study was undertaken to study this effect.Aim: To study the effect of yoga practices on menstrual discomfort in teenaged girls.Methods: The procedure of the selected Asanas. Pranayama and Kriyas was explained withdemonstration to the subjects. The questionnaire was answered by the subjects before and afterthe training period.

Subject: For this study 40 female students who had been facing menstrual discomfort were selectedfrom the Maheshwari Kanya School, Amravati, Maharashtra, India. Their age was from 13 to 17years. Selection of subjects was done through personal interviews and they were put into twogroups according to their menstruation dates.YOGA FOR CONTROL OF DIABETESNamrata V KadamNuclear Fuels Group, Bhahha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai-400 085ABSTRACTDiabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder caused by malfunction of the pancreas. It can causecomplications affecting various organs of our body. Obesity, unhealthy diet, sedentary life style andalso lack of awareness of our body are resulting in sharp increase in diabetes. An attempt is made toexamine the benefits of yoga for control of diabetes in a graded programme of yogabhyas over aduration of 75 days. Chronic diabetics in the age group of 40-50 yrs participated in this programme.Though the aim of the programme was to control diabetes, the asanas were chosen to bring aboutan over all improvement in health, which in turn helps in controlling diabetes. Significantimprovement in self confidence, feeling of relaxation and calmness, efficiency and stamina wereobserved. In conclusion it could be stated that this programme has been reasonably successfultowards the influence of yoga on diabetes.Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder caused by malfunction of the pancreas. Diabetes, if notcontrolled can cause many complications affecting the eyes, kidneys, heart, brain and feet. Obesity,unhealthy diets and sedentary life style are brining about a sharp increase in diabetes prevalence.India is estimated to have the largest number of diabetic patients in the world and the number isgrowing. Lack of education, unbalanced diet and poor awareness about primary health care are theroot causes for many a disease in our country and diabetes is no exception. It is rather surprisingthat at the end of the 20th century, awareness about diseases is minimal even among the so calledliterates. In fact, knowing about certain diseases is treated as 'taboo'. Modern world is rediscoveringa number of holistic ways of living known to our ancestors for controlling differentdiseases and the present day practitioners of modern medicine are recognizing and appreciatingthe alternate pathways to control, if not completely cure, many diseases. Yoga stands first amongthese pathways. Yoga itself is an education. It creates an awareness about the body. Yoga leads tophysical and mental health. Yoga teaches to attain and maintain a healthy condition of body, mind

and spirit. Yoga practices help to solve health problems. Due to innumerable benefits, it isunderstood that yoga could help to control, if not completely cure, many diseases includingdiabetes. In view of this, a project work, consisting of a carefully graded programme of yogabhyaswas undertaken to help the chronic diabetics in the age group of 40-50 years for a duration of 75days. Primarily they were taught certain asanas, pranayamas, relaxation techniques, mudra andbandha. The outcome of this project work and the effect of yoga on the participants are descried inthis paper.ROLE OF YOGA IN CONTROLLING DIABETESDiet, physical activity and mental tranquility are the cornerstones of diabetic management. Nodisease requires as much attention to diet (Ahara) as diabetes. Yoga advocates a light satvikvegetarian diet because it believes in the ancient yogic maxim, "as is your food, so is your mind". Assuch there is no restriction on the type of food for a diabetic. He/she can eat almost any food thatother people normally eat provided the food is balanced and within the permissible caloric limits.The daily requirement should be well distributed between the different meals. In the Yoga Plan forHealth, Ahara (food), Vicara (thought) and Vihara (recreation) go hand in hand.Yoga, indeed, works wonders with weight, the bugbear of diabetics. It helps overweights to reduce,under-weights to put on and normal weights to maintain their weight, this is not the only benefit.Yoga wards off heart disease and circulatory risks to which diabetics are easy targets by stepping upblood circulation and lowering cholestrol and triglyceride levels. Yoga is the best detressor. Itrelieves emotional tension and stress which trigger diabetes, and accounts for swings in blood sugarlevels. Yoga lowers blood sugar by increasing the number of insulin receptors and increases glucoseuptake by the muscles, thus lowering glucose blood levels.YOGA PRACTICESThe word "Yoga" derived from the Samskrit verb "Yuj' which means 'to join' or union of Atma andParmatma i.e. with the supreme reality. We can also say that it is the union of mind and body.Hata Yoga is a branch of the Yoga which necessarily starts from the body. It is body-mind-spirit pathtowards samadhi. The full yogic technique of Astanga Yoga helps to develop the body, mind andpsychic potencies to achieve a mind-body balance which cushions us against the stresses andstrains of modern living. It helps us to become an oasis of calm in the turbulent sea of today'sexistence.In the current project controlling of diabetes through yoga has been evaluated on diabetic patientswho undertook the yoga classes for a duration of two and half months. It consisted of fifty sittingsof 45 minutes duration. One of the areas was stress management. There were 10 participants

(Smales and 2 females) in the age group of 40 to 50 years. All of them are diabetics, having casehistory of 2 to 5 years. Before starting the yogic practices, the participants were sent for generalmedical check up for height, weight, blood pressure, pulse rate (PR), urine, sugar, fasting,blood sugar, post-prandial blood sugar (PPBS), blood cholesterol, haemoglobin etc. This wasrepeated after completion of the classes (two and a half months) to examine the possible benefitsaccrued.A carefully graded programme of asanas conditioning or meditative asanas, cultural asanas, simplepranayamas and mudras, was chosen. Each and every asana was demonstrated and participantswere helped to learn and practise these asanas. Daily programme used to start with Prarthana andOmkara chanting followed by loosening exercises, various asanas and pranayama. The asanastaught were:1. Sukhasana,2. Savasana3. Vajrasana,4. Majrasana A and B,5. Tripada Majrasana,6. Savasana Marga Suddhi7. Pavana Muktasana with Asvini Mudra,8. Sulabha Bhujangasana,9. Sulabha Dhanurasana,10.Vakrasana,11. Sulabha Matsyendrasana,12. Gomukhasana,13. Nadi Suddhi Pranayama,14. Suryanuloma Pranayama,15.Trikonasana,16. Sulabha Makarasana,17. Parvatasana,18. Bhramari Pranayama,19. Parivartita Cakrasana,20. Viparita Karani Mudra,21. Nishpandabhava,22. Sarvangasana,23. Savasana,24. Uiiayi Pranayama.25. Jihva Bandha and26. Simha Mudra.The programme used to end with relaxation by Savasana for a duration of 10 minutes. Participantswere advised to practise this programme on Saturdays and Sundays on their own. In addition to thisinitial course of Yogabhyas, the participants were advised to practise one or more of the following "Yogic Suddhi Kriyas" i.e Yogic cleansing processes once in a month: (l)Vaman Dhauti and (2) Laghu

Shankha Prakshalana. Participants were advised to practice Ushappan (drinking 2 glasses of waterearly in the morning) and a 40 minutes of relaxed walk. At the end of the training, general medicalcheck up to all the participants was done.RESULTS AND OBSERVATIONSThe reports indicate that almost all participants have got the benefit. As is seen, the extent ofbenefit varied from a small fraction to very high success. All the participants felt a sense of wellbeing with relief from symptoms like tiredness, frequent urination, tension, headache, constipationand indigestion. A few of them got a feeling of exhilaration, lightness and suppleness of body. It isfound that good diet practices along with the yogabhyas could help in bringing down the bloodsugar levels. It could be concluded that this programme has been reasonably successful towards theinfluence of yoga on controlling the diabetes.MANAGEMENT OF DIABETES MELLITUS (NIDDM) BY NATUROPATHY AND YOGADr Prashanth ShettyMedical Officer,Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara Yoga and Nature Cure Hospital, Dharmasthala - 574 216. ®08256- 771 77ABSTRACTNowadays alternative medicine is gaining importance in treating human ailments. Naturopathy andYoga are two very important ancient alternative drugless systems of treatment.Patients were given 1 hour of yogic treatment including yogasanas, pranayama and meditation.Along with this, nature cure treatments like partial messages to the abdomen, cold hip bath andother eliminative treatments were also given.Yogic exercises and nature cure treatments helped in increasing the homeostasis of sugar in thehuman body, where as pranayama and meditation helped to reduce the stress. By these means, allpatients got significant improvement.Naturopathy treats the diseases of a person by stimulating the human curative power throughnatural dieting, right way of living and different baths and yoga is found to be very good remedy forstress induced disorders like Diabetes, Bronchial Asthma, Hypertension etc.METHODSubject were the inpatients from SDM Yoga and Nature Cure Hospital admitted for 3 weeks. Studywas explained to the patients. Number of patients was 25, out of which 6 were females of agegroup 30-60 yrs.On admission all of them were on, hypoglycemic drugs and they were assessed for both subjectiveand objective parameters like pulse-rate, blood pressure and lab investigations like blood sugar

level, urine sugar level, cholesterol, Blood urea were recorded. Patients were subjected to strict dietregime like morning 7.00 am Bitter guard juice (300 ml) 11.30 am 200G boiled vegetables, 2Chapatis and 1 glass of buttermilk, (300 ml) along with which a spoon of methi powder was added.At 2.30 pm they were given a glass of lemon juice (300 ml). At Night around 7.00 pm the same dietwas given.Patients were advised to practise yogic practices for one and a half hours, like yogasanas,pranayama and meditation, in the morning-Patients were asked to take naturopathic treatmentsmainly partial massage to abdomen, cold hip baths with friction and other eliminative treatments.By observing the vital data and blood sugar level, drugs were slowly tapered and finally stopped. Atthe time of discharge, the patients' vital data and blood sugar level were once again recorded.STATISTICAL ANALYSISThere is no difference in the average level of blood sugar before and after treatment, that meansare equal symbolically (M1=M2). Before treatment implies use of drugs, after treatment implies nodrugs,Varuate Xbi ; observed values after treatment (no drugs) Variate Xai ; observed values aftertreatment ( use of drugs)Difference di- Xai-Xbi= O1-24 25-6 1 35 114 43 82 8n = 25, 41 24 26 -9 62 60 125 88 115 3025 15 107 158 1 17Mean of di = d = 44.730769Standard deviatic n of di = = 47.059339Observed ratio T= n -1 d = 25x44.730769/47.059339 = 4.7525921This follows + distn with n-1 difTest procedure suggests that reject Ho if T> tx n-1 such that P(T> txn-l)=XBy interpolating table value (theoritical) at 1% level of significance is 2.485Observed value =4.7525921Table value=2.485Observed value >table valueHence reject HoAlternatively accept Hence M2<M1The average level of blood sugar without drugs is less than the average level of blood sugar withdrugs.Hence yogic and naturopathy treatment is more effective in bringing down level of blood sugar inthe management of diabetes mellitus.RESULTThere was a significant improvement in all the 25 cases, even though the drugs are stoppedcompletely.Blood sugar level was normal. This pilot study clearly shows that yoga and naturopathy treatments

and diet definitely show a new life for diabetics.DISCUSSIONNatural methods of treatments and yogasanas well help glucose receptors to absorb more andmore glucose and abdominal massages and yogasanas, massages specially stimulate the pancreas into the production of insulin.Pranayama and meditation will help reduce the stress. The diet which contains more fibres willreduce polyphagia by delaying the gastric emptying.Hypoglycemia agents like methi, Naulkol Juice, Bitterguord juice act as hypoglcemicdrugs which will reduce the blood sugar by enhancing the consumption.REFERENCES1. Hydrotherapy by J.H.Kellogg,2. Clinical Medicine by Davidson3. Dr.Nagaratna and Nagendra, Yoga for common ailments4. Singh R.H.Shetiwar, R.M.Udupa K.N. Physiological and therapentic studies on Yoga5. Art of massage by Ds.J.H.Kellogg.6. Diet and Diabetes by T.C.Raghuraman7. Swaran Paricha, R.D.Sharma8. Clinical medicine by Harrisons,9. Food for healing by-Medical Physiology by GuytonEFFECT OF IAYT ON STRESS INDUCED AILMENTSNobuyoshi MuraiRESEARCH OF JVYOGA YON AGO CITY JAPANNo.253/223 4th cross 1st block Jayanagar Bangalore.Ph : 6657353ABSTRACTYoga is becoming popular in Japan. Stress and stress related ailments are increasing as lifeexpectancy has increased due to decreased infant mortality. The first major cause of death in Japanis cancer, followed by heart disease. The medical expenses are increasing. In 1995 health insuranceexpenses were about 2,15,000 yens per person per year (collected as taxes). Yoga and yoga therapyclasses are popular in Japan. 80% of particapants are ladies. This work is carried out in partialfulfilment of the nonresidential yoga therapy instructors course in Japan conduted at Yoga Niketanby VK YOGAS. Integrated approach of yoga therapy has beneficial effects. In Japan with very highlevel of stress at all ages, yoga can be a great boon to prevent problems of stress.This research has been done by Yoga Therapists who received the certificate of YTIC on VK YOGAS inJapan. In 1994, this YTIC was held on in Japan, we invited Yoga teacher who is Sri Dharmaprakash NM from VK YOGAS. 33 people have got certification until now.As you know, Japan is small-island around the sea on East Side Asia. In these days, the highergrowthof the Japanese economy has made remarkable advances. Electronics, Automobile industryetc. are keeping high quality level in the world.

But people are suffering from so much stress. As VK YOGAS sound the alarm, stress inducedailments are increasing alarmingly, There is increasing interest in their own health, and how toreduce stress. That is why Ayurveda, Yoga therapy, other alternative therapy also receive muchattention.In the first place, I may tell you about the social of Japan. (OHP Sheet No.l) The population of Japanis 120000000. Population composition is 0-14, 15.1%, 15-64 69.3 %, 64 over, 15.6 %. The averagelife span of Japanese is more than 75 years old Gents, Ladies 83.59%. This reason is to decrease aninfant mortality rate, to not always increase long life persons. Family size is 2.79 persons. The familystructure is almost parents and two children.Life style (OHP Sheet NO. 2)Smoking rate Gents : 58.8% Ladies : 15.2%Drinking 63,978,000 53.3%Sleeping hours about 7.5-8 hours10 G 8.18 L 8.0620 G 7.47 L 7.4130 G 7.34 L 7.2040 G 7.36 L 7.0450 G 7.43 L 7.1660 G 8.08 L 7.4470 G 8.57 L 8.46Working average 7.5 hours (but this data is only total average. Some people are working muchmore.)Back pain, Shoulder pain, Arthritis is complained by 283.3 persons out of 1000 numbers. And inHospital 285.4 persons put of 1000 complain of Hypertension, Back pain, shoulder pain.So, the life is stressful. Almost people, businessmen, but also babies, children, aged women feelmuch stress everywhere at company, school, home etc.They understand the reason that stress more often bring about many diseases, but it is difficult tochanging their own life style in the present circumstances.The data shows the ranking of course of death is 34 years old - 54 years old: 1st cancer, more than54 years old 1st apoplectic ictus, 2nd cancer, and 3rd heart disease. Accordingly, Almost Japanesepeople die in cancer, apoplectic ictus, or heart disease.And in medical facility, there is much high level of medical technology hospitals. But It may bealways crowded, they are to wait for 3 hours then they can get 3 minuets treatment, They are notsatisfied and afraid of side effect of medicines, but on the other hand they are depending onmedicines also.In 1995, the health insurance of medical expenses is about \27,000,000,000,000, (In Japan medicalexpense should be paid about 70% -80% according to health insurance system by government ) foreach person \215000 for one year. This is collected as other tax.Now, in Japan yoga classes are spread widely and slowly. The general yoga classes usually are

performed once weekly, each for one and half hour for the most part, we don't have residentialfacilities like Prashanti kuteeram. About 80% of participants are Ladies and almost of them haveproblems to shoulder pain, back pain, climacteric disorder, irregularity of menstruation andhypertension etc. Some yoga therapists are taking special yoga class for mentally handicapedpeople old aged in welfare facilities and nursing home for ages. The acknowledgment of theefficiency of yoga therapy rise step by step.As mentioned earlier, there are much stress induced diseases, gastro intestinal injury, hypertension,back and knee pain and irregularity of menstruation are typical.THE RESEARCH OF HYPERTENSIONThen, I introduce the report of result of IAYT for hypertension.Aim : To search for effective ofIAYT for hypertensionMethod : Nonresidential, weekly once, About 90 minuets, To encourage practice at home every dayDuration: 3 monthsNumbers : Male - 5 persons; Female - 32 persons Ratio of Agein forties 3 persons, In fifties 13 persons, In sixties 16 persons In seventies 5 persons, 27 personstake medicineMAIN TECHNIQUES1. HAND IN AND OUT BREATHING2. TRIKONASANA BREATHING «3. HEAD FRONT AND BACK BREATHING4. SASANKASANA BREATHING5. BHUJANGASANA BREATHING6. SALABHASANA BREATHING7. MAKARASANA8. PADA SANCALANA WITH BREATHING9. SHOULDER ROTATION10. Q.R.T.11. CHANDRANULOMA VILOMA12. NADI SUDDHI PRANAYAMA13. D.R.T + PET + Cyclic Meditation.COUNSELING (Contents & Advice)1. Explanation of hypertension disease,2. Differences between Western medicine and Yoga therapy approach3. Importance of relaxation4. Putting on a diet, to reduce weight, to take balance nutrition5. Improving life style-No smoking, No alcohol, No much sugar & salt6. To take care of own body, (avoid overwork, lack of sleep) Yoga therapist become good adviser forthem to consult with trouble of lifeRESULTAfter 3 monthsReduced blood pressure normal value- 20 persons 54%Reduced blood pressure border value -7 persons 19% .No changing blood pressure -7 persons 19%Increased blood pressure -3 persons 8%Reduced medication- 3 persons 8%

Reduced Heart rate- 35 persons 95%Increased Heart rate -2 person 5%Ratio of Heart rate -50-60/min Spersons, 61-70/min 12 persons 71-80/min 12persons, 81-90/min 3personsCONCRETE CHANGING OF SYMPTOMSB female 62 years old, She is a beginner still doing yoga for 6 months, she lives with husband only.Before 3 years she has been operated on removal of cholecyst, (10 years back also, she has her noseoperated on for sinusitis, now her nose is not so bad).From about that time blood pressure has started to increase. She retired as insurance saleswoman27 years back. Mainly her work is to keep housework only, but suddenly her heart pounds andsometimes her chest feels tight. She is afraid of terror of death; it looks as if she died. She can notstand and not sleep well in spite of tired. She is always thinking about misfortunes and feeling solonely at home alone. One day she got a panic and visited her friend's house, at that time her friendadvised her to do practice yoga. She tends toward neurosis, and an affable person, but she alwaystelling about herself "I am timid."The therapist started treatment weekly once for 2 hours. Special technique for hypertension, asanafor neck ankle joints, strength for muscle of back and abdominal muscle, nadhisudhi pranayama,QRT etc. were given to her.In counseling, she has said "I am afraid that it looks as if I may die too because of two personssuicide around me". She was in bad health and felt loneliness, uneasy for the future, and spiritlessfor facing new things. She kept irregular hour and many often goes out. She seems to be pessimisticand depression. The yoga therapist has given advises to lead a well-regulated life to refrain outingand remove stains of nostril with sesame oil as her nose was stuffed. She has been feeling aboutdeath and growing old but she has become cheerful after hearing about concept of yoga. Thetherapist has added some other advice to avoid over eating in her nose bad condition and to takemoderate amount of hot milk in spite of midnight snack or eating between sweet meals, becauseshe has taken cold milk so much after eating. And as she hadsweet meals, because she has taken cold milk so much after eating. And as she had a hurried meal,the therapist recommend to chew her food well, to fix her bed time and time to get up. Thetherapist has told patient should have very regular habits calmly.About medication, She has taken antihyperse-nsitive "zestril (2nc 201)" one tablet every morningand tranquilizer and somnifacient also in case of panic not usually.RECORDS03-12 BP 153/86 HR 95 RR 19 BHT 22 WT 52

Sometimes she was flustered, as she cannot follow instruction 10-12 BP 144/84 HR 86 RR 17 BHTWT52Very often breathing through her mouth as her nose stuffed up.17-12 BP 144/78 HR 81 RR 14 BHT-WT 53 ,;,She felt out of sorts for less sleep. Showed signs of fatigue. 14-01 BP 147/78 HR 81 RR 14 BHT-WT53Stuffed nose. Getting a cold, feel heaviness,BP is little higher than usual. 18-01 BP 137/89 HR 79 RR 18 BHT-WT 53After yoga, she feels so good for her nose smoothly. , ;28-01 BP 141/76 HR 86 RR 10 BHT 40 WT 53Shoulders are stiff, the hack is hard.After stopping breath, She feel bad because of her head swam.I was telling "Take it easy" 11-02 BP 132/82 HR 83 RR 15 BHT-WT 52She has forgotten to take medicine but BP is normal value.She recognized " There is no need to take medicine for me." •18-02 BP 137/76 HR 78 RR 12 BHT-WT 51.5She flung herself into yoga practice with determination.While doing Asana, she keeps with awareness.She said "Asana can be nicely, my nose does not stuff' .25-02 BP 129/66 HR 82 RR 10 BHT-WT 51.5 ,It seems to 'be relaxed. She' got confidence as BP is stabilized without taking medicine. She refusedto take medicine from doctor. Doctor gave herpermission to stop Medicine. But as she feel a little uneasy, in case of panic she has acceptedTranquilizer and somnifacient only.04-03 BP 137/81 HR 79 RR 13 BHT 30 WT 50.5She said "Last night I could not sleep well because of thinking many things". I told her to stop takinga nap with patience, but she was sleeping while DRT.11-03 BP 138/78 HR 81 RR 9 BHT 45 WT 50BHT increases. RR less. 18-03 BP 132/76 HR 74 RR 13 BHT 45 WT 50BP is less. (First time 153 / 86) Mind has steadied. But not perfectly, we will continue to practice indoing very good savaasana, she will sleep more nicely.RESULTBefore AfterBP 153/86 132/76HR 95 74RR 19 10BHT 22 45WT 52kg 50kgMedication - - - - - - - Stop - Mind is calm.As this case shows, it was a very good chance. The beginner also can recognize that efficacy of yogatherapy and gain confidence for her future or her life, she was taking advantage of that which is in

spite of forgetting to take medicine but BP has become normal. She could be convinced by herself,and put into practice.As she has direct experience, she was dealing with her problem positively, so that it was acceptedas being beyond doubt what she can get good result.?And we can find out that it is important not only to practice special technique, pranayama but alsocounseling. According to I.A.Y.T. In this case, patient could recognize most important thing to enrichher life, what is more, as a result they can make a relationship of mutual trust, it effects makethemselves felt.This therapist says "I wish her growth and would be sharing each other's joys or pains which are totrain oneself for getting an ideal life habit according to their personality. So that I also owe mygrowth entirely to the patient. She never mean to force patient as teacher. A good relationship mayproduce very useful result. It is overriding importance that we try to improve personality oftherapist themselves."The other hand, it rack our brain that how to continue special technique at home. If they are quitetheir class very well, but that takes a back seat to jobs, playing, habits etc.I introduce that a therapist flung oneself into this problem with determination.She is taking yoga class for handicap people and old ages. She wants to continue for them topractice little by little at home, so she made the home work "Yoga Calendar".The first one : A5 sheetto see, and checkThis is so small that is why it is difficultspace also small. Only good body conditionpeople can do.The secondone: A4 sheet / for one month One or two persons can do it at home,The third one: A4 sheet / for one weekPeople to do nicely provoked otherpersons more. As most of them can notcheck by of themselves, they can do byobtaining the cooperation of other familymembers.The fourthone:A4 sheet /forone week + NamespaceTo increase doing practice people bywriting own name by themselves or stuff.Or family because it produces to becomeconscious of doing for themselves.She calls out each person as looking and checking their home work calendar. She keeps constantconsideration for them , and she had opportunities to talk with them one by one as long as possible

before doing practice. And she talked about efficiency of Y oga Therapy. To be done is a small thing,but it is content enough for handicap people and old age people.CONCLUSIONAs you know old age people or bedridden persons also can perform yoga practice. If they cannotmove their body, they try to move it mentally. As the days go by, patients do find their voiceincrease, and they can do loud voice gradually. Many thinks of as effort have brought yoga therapyspread widely more and more in Japan.In fact, from now on there are many old aged in Japan. The care of old aged is a serious problemIn education also it is important thing what is health and how to talk students about that.In 1995 17-Jan. at Kobe city Japan, we have an extraordinary earthquake, which called Hanshindaisinsai. Most of the sufferers are tormented by severe fear and stress even now. As an oral reportsome persons who are not able to sleep at night attended yoga class. It takes a long time to go toclass from their shelter. As they remembered D.R.T. at yoga class, finally they could have slept everyday. After a disaster also Yoga therapy was of practical use, then it relaxed their mind and body.Many Yoga therapists feel big theme to balancing mind and body to start with, and so they feel thathow does human being live in our life through activities of Yogatherapy.CLINICAL YOGA TECHNIQUES IN THE MANAGEMENT OF CHRONIC HEMIPLEGIA PATIENTS - ASTUDYDr K V Dilipkumar M D (Ay)Project Officer, Clinical Yoga Research Institute Vidyaratnam, PS Varier Ayurveda College Kottakkal,Eradidode - 676 501, Kerala, IndiaDr P K Narayana Sarma M D (Ay)Lecturer, Vidyaratnam, P S Varier Ayurveda College, Kottakkal, Kerala, IndiaABSTRACTNowadays the rehabilitation of Hemiplegia patients is being done mainly through physio-therapytechniques, such as Bobath N euro-Development Techniques (NDT) and Brunnstroem Rood'stechnique, and Proprioceptive Neuro-Muscular Facilitation (PNF) concepts. A four week NDTrehabilitation programme has shown significant improvement in stance duration, weightacceptance, push-off of both legs, and stance duration symmetry, although the functionalperformance of the patients did not improve considerably. At some stage or other, many hemiplegiapatients in Kerala approach Ayurvedic system of Medicine for supplementary benefits. SpecialKeralite Pancakarma Therapy (KPT, Ayurvedic Purification techniques) is popularly believed to beeffective in the management of chronic hemiplegia.

Expansion of internal awareness has an effect on many inhibitions in hemiplegics. Clinical Yoga mayhelp to open up some of the motor areas which are kept idle due to lack of stimulation. Theimprovement in feeding and dressing ability reflects improvement in fine movement capability.As an effort to develop an effective clinical Yoga method in the management of Chronic hemiplegia,a preliminary clinical study was conducted in 8 subjects for 3 Weeks. Selected clinical Yogatechniques like Pranayama, Sukshma Vyayama, Pranic Energisation Techniques were practiced as agroup. Data collected using Edinburgh Prognostic Scale and Barthel ADL index before and after thetreatment were compared. Analysis of results is encouraging. Remarkable changes are shown infine movements. A detailed comparative study with proper control is essential, which will be anample contribution in the rehabilitation of Hemiplegia patients.Nowadays the rehabilitation of Hemiplegia patients is being done mainly through physiotherapytechniques, such as Bobath Neuro Development Techniques (NDT) and the Brunnstroem, Rood, andproprioceptive neuro muscular facilitation (PNF)concepts1. A study conducted during the 4 week NDT rehabilitation programme, showed significantimprovement in stance duration, weight acceptance, push-off both legs, and stance durationsymmetry. However, the functional performance of the patients did not improve considerably2. Atsame stage or other, most of the hemiplegia patients in Kerala approach Ayurvedic system ofMedicine for supplementary benefits. Special Keralite Panchakarma therapy (Ayurvedic Purificationtechniques) is popularly believed to be effective in the management of chronic hemiplegia3.However, a proper scientific evaluation is yet to be conducted to prove its efficacy. With availablemanagement techniques the prognosis of chronic hemiplegia is not much encouraging.During some Yoga practices, it has been observed that under altered state of consciousness,hemiplegia patients could raise their hands beyond the level upto, which they used to raisenormally. This may be due to the removal of inhibitions over the unaffected area of the brain. Inacute attack of stroke, generally every person becomes"'completely immobile. Then they graduallyrecover and start movement to reach maximum level in 3-6 months. In some case this recovery isnot complete. This is due to lack of awareness. Understanding of minute levels of damage may helpthe patient to improve the use of the affected limp (some more). Since yoga being a science toexpand internal awareness a set of clinical yoga techniques (Yoga techniques designed fortreatment of diseases) were tried in hemiplegia patients. This study is conducted to test theeffectiveness of the clinical yoga techniques to improve the quality of the life of hemiplegiapatients.SUBJECTS AND METHODSThe study was conducted at Clinical Yoga Research Institute, Kottakkal. A total of 8 male patients

were selected and admitted in Vaidyaratnam P.S.Varier Ayurveda College Hospital as inpatients forthe study. The patients belonged to an age group from 22 to 64 years. The duration of ailmentranged from 11 months to 84 months, out of them 3 were left side affected and 5 right sideaffected. The following criteria were confirmed on these patients. (I) Hemiplegia with more than sixmonths duration (II) Patients having the capacity to sit erect (III) Patients who have no severecognitive and communication impairment. (IV) Patients who are able to control urine and bowel. Allthe patients were admitted in the same period and clinical yoga training were given for 3 weeks as agroup practice. Daily two hours training were given during the treatment period. They underwentPranayama4, Sukshma Vyayama5, Pranic Energisation Technique6 practices. The therapy wasperformed by experienced therapist. In pranayama all the three cooling pranayama i.e., Sitkari,Sitali, Sadanta were avoided. 'A'kara, 'U'kara, 'M'kara chanting were introduced at the end. Thepatient affected with left side were asked to perform suryanuloma pranayama and right sideaffected person were instructed to practice chandranuloma pranayama.During Sukshma Vyayama practice advice was given to close the eyes and imagine that both thesides are moving simultaneously. After an initiation assistance was given to complete themovement on each of the affected joint. After performing the exercise, instructions were given toobserve themselves the minute changes so as to increase the awareness.In Pranic Energisation Technique, slight modifications were made. As the patients were unable toperform Namaskara Mudra, they were asked to press their unaffected palm against the chest.DATA COLLECTIONPatients were investigated before and after a 3-week inpatient treatment. Two major scales wereused as evaluation criteria i.e., ( I) Edinburgh Prognostic Scale7 (II) Barthel ADL index6RESULTSComparison of data collected before and after the study shows improvement in memory recall,proprioception motor function in both limbs and in expression. (Fig. 1) Results of Barthel indexscore indicate noticeable changes in activity of Daily Living. (Fig. 2) More changes were achieved inmemory recall, proprioception, dressing and feeding.DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONThe analysis of results showed that the expansion of internal awareness have an effect on manyinhibition of hemiplegia. Clinical Yoga helps to open up some of the motor areas which are kept idledue to lack of stimulation. The improvement in the feeding and dressing ability showed an increasein the fine movement capability.Some of the patients were not able to involve properly in the practice due to their inability tounderstand the instructions properly because of the educational backwardness. Even though thestudy was conducted in a small group of subjects, some of the observations have proved to be of

significance. A detailed study has to be conducted in a big sample. A comparison with physiotherapytechniques and Ayurvedic techniques will be relevant. In a well designed controlled studypsychological aspects also can be included.ACKNOWLEDGMENTSWe express our sincere thanks to Dr. R. Nagaratna, Chief Yoga Therapy Consultant, VivekanandaKendra Yogas, Bangalore for her valuable suggestions and inspiration.REFERENCES1. Dewald JPA. Sensorimotor neurophysiology and the basis of neurofacilitation therapeutictechniques. In: Brandstater ME, Basmajian JV, eds. Stroke Rehabilitation. Baltimore, Md:Williams &Wilkins Co: 1987: 109-182.2. Stefan A.H; Mathias T. J; Christine M.B; Carl S; Daniela LTA; Karl-HM, Gait out came in AmbulatoryHemiparetic Patients After a 4-week comprehensive Rehabilitation Program and Prognostic Factors.Stroke 1994;25: 1999-2004.3. Vaidya Ratnam P.S.Variet, Chikitsa Sangraham, Arya Vaidya Sala, Kottakkal Ninth Edition 1980.4. "Yoga, an instruction Booklet", Vivekananda Kendra Prakasan Trust, Chennai; 1977.5. Yoga Therapy Practical Manual, Vivekananda Kendra Yoga Research Foundation, Bangalore(Private Circulation).6. Nagendra HR; Pranic Energisation Technique: Vivekananda Kendra Yoga Prakasan, 1995.7. Prescott RJjGarraway WM; Akhtar AJ; Predicting functional out come following acute stroke usinga standard clinical examination. Stroke 1982; 13:641-647.8. Wade DT. Measurement in Neurological Rehabilitation. Oxford, UK, Oxford University Press.1992.EFFECT OF YOGA IN INTRAUTERINE GROWTH RETARDED PREGNANCY - A STUDYDr Shamantakamani Narendran716, 7th Main, J P Nagar, III Phase, Bangalore-560 078, IndiaABSTRACTIntraUterine Growth Retarded Pregnancy (IUGR) is growth restriction of the baby inside the uterus.With respect to gestational age a new born may be preterm, term or post term. With respect to sizeand weight, the baby may be normally grown or is less than normal. The low birth weight (LEW)baby, may be due to pre term delivery or due to failure of gorwth. These babies are prone to severeshort term and long term complications. Hence it is essential that this condition should beprevented. The result and the conclusion of this study has given enormous encouragement toconduct a bigger study with many more scientific parameters.We now stand on the threshold of another quantum leap in perinatal care. Our ability to diagnoseand evaluate maternal and foetal pathology has progressed to the point whether foetal therapy andearly treatment of newborn is possible.

Stress in teh mother, adversely affects the growth and development of the baby. It also gives rise tovarious psychosomatic disorders like asthma, migrane, gastric ulcers, hyperthyroidism, back pain,hyperemesis and bleeding. Most harmful complications are, 'Pregnancy induced Hypertension' (PIH)and 'Pregnancy induced Diabetes' (PID) with their associated sequelae like, convulsions, abortion,pre term labour and eclampsia.Foetal growth will be markedly affected leading to IUGR (Intra uterine growth restriction) with all itscomplications like birth asphyxia, brain haemorrhage, hypoglycemia, hypocalcemia and congenitalabnormalities. They also suffer from long term sequelae like cerebral dysfunction, hyperactivity,short attention span, learning and speech difficulties, behaviour and personality problems. It isextremely important to minimize physical, intellectual and emotional injury to both mother andchild during the reproductive process.Previously it was thought that IUGR is solely related to mother's poor physical conditions; but nowit is clearly established that next to medical risks, high stress in the mother is a very importantfactor.Yoga, as a therapeutic modality is now fast advancing as an effective tool in many physical andpsychosomatic disorders. Enough proof is available of the beneficial effects of yoga practices on themind and body.Definition of IUGR: It is growth restriction of the baby inside the uterus. With respect to gestationalage a new born may be preterm, term or post term. With respect to size and weight, the baby maybe normally grown or is less than normal. The low birth weight (LEW) baby, may be due to pre termdelivery or due to failure of growth.COMPLICATIONS OF IUGRImmediate complications* Birth asphyxia* Brain haemorrhage* Hypoglycemia* Hypocalcaemia* Congenital abnormalitiesLong term Sequelae* Minimal cerebral dysfunction* Hyperactivity* Short attention span* Learning difficulties* Speech defects* Behavioural and personality problemsCAUSES OF IUGRMaternal1. Vascular disease

2. Chronic renal disease3. Mal nutritionFoetal1. Foetal infections2. Chromosomal abnormalities3. Congenital malformationsMATERIALS AND METHHODSTwenty five women with IUGR, diagnosed by clinical tools and ultrasound measurements, weregiven yoga practices. They continued allopathic treatment as well. Data of twenty five IUGR casestreated with only allopathic treatment were collected retrospectively and taken as control group.They were matched for age of the mother, parity, and gestational age. Complete data was availablein eighteen cases of yoga and twenty five cases of control group.Duration of practice: Two hours per week for fourteen to sixteen weeks till delivery.ANETENATAL DIAGNOSTIC TOOLS1. Ultrasound studies2. Doppler ultrasound studies3. Non stress test4. Contraction stress test5. Foetal biophysical profile6. Biochemical/Hormonal studies* Predicts IUGR, PIH, before clinical onset.* Foetal parameters and abnormalities visualised* Blood flow to the utero-placental circulation is visualisedHOW YOGA ACTS IN PREGNANCY1. Enhances placental blood supply2. Gives better oxygenation to the mother as well as the foetus3. Improves the immune system4. Improves muscular performance and efficiency, specially of the pelvic and abdominal muscles.5. Tilts the autonomic function towards parasympathetic dominance6. Promotes endocrine changes which improves the ability to cope up with stress7. Has profound effect on hypertension and diabetes.8. Increases efficiency of lung functions.9. Lowers basal metabolic rate. 10. Gives enormous mental relaxation and tranquility.Foetal brain starts functioning much before it completes its growth and development. Hence it isabsolutely essential to give the urborn child a calm, serene healthy uterine and externalenvironment.YOGA PRACTICESIntrated basic set of practices were given, cautions and contra indications were explained. Theperiodic progress is given in the table below:Clinical DataParameters Age rangeYogaGroup Control GroupNo. of cases 18 25Average age 23 years 24 years

Age range 20-29 years 17-30 yrsGravida 1 11 15Gravida 2 3 5Gravida 3 2 3Gravida 4 2 2Bad ObstetricHistory 1 1Diabetes 2 2Hypertension 2 2Data AnalysisParametersBirth weight Yoga Group Control GroupMean2535SD392.3Mean2332SD293.3NO ofcases % No ofcases %Birth comlications Nil Nil 2 8Abnormal deliveryBreech Caesarian section1 5.5% 4 16%3 16.6% 13 52%Normal delivery 14 77.7% 8 32%Psychological scores 16 90% 4 16%Mean duration ofpregnancy (in weeks) 39.6 37.9RESULTSAbnormal deliveries were less in yoga group that is,1. Cesarian section by 36%2. Breech delivery by 10.5%3. Birth complications by 8%Normal deliveries were significantly more in yoga group by 45%4. Birth weight improved by 203grams.5. Mean duration of pregnancy improved by 1.4 weeks6. Psychological scores were significantly positive in yoga group by 74%CONCLUSIONIt is clear that there is significant improvement in the birth outcome asseen by the,1. Increase in the weight of the at birth2. In enhancing the duration of pregnancy till terms3. Achieving normal delivery, and4. Preventing ceasarian sections.Most important of all is that they could relax very well physically and mentally.

PRANIC HEALING A GLIMPSE INTO BIOFIELD THERAPYJ P Vrunda M DAll India Pranic Healing Trust, Bangalore, IndiaABSTRACTPranic healing is an art and science with a consciously directed process of absorption, modulationtransfer of bio-energy from the sorroundings and projection on the desired part of the patient, so asto relieve the patient of the physical and/or psychological disorders. It is a non-touch form ofhealing. It uses prana, the vital energy to heal oneself and others. The diseased energy is removedfrom the patient's energy body and transforing it to the effected parts with the use of hands. It ispossible for one to heal and/or prevent physical and psychological ailments.Bio-field practitioners have a holistic focus. The word medicine and meditation both come from thesame root word, meaning "to take care" Medicine takes care of the human body. Meditation takescare of the human soul. Pranic healing deals with the human bio-energy field which is theconnecting link between the human body and soul.Pranic healing is an art and science with a growing following, a consciously directed process ofabsorption, modulation & transfer of bio-energy from the surroundings and projection on thedesired part of the patient, so as to relieve him/her of the physical and/or psychological disorders.It is a non-touch form of healing which uses vital energy (Prana) to heal one's self and others, nearor afar ( Sui 1998). Healing is accomplished by removing diseased energy from the patient's energybody and transferring energy to the affected areas with the use of the hands. By balancing theenergy level in the energy body, one can heal prevent physical and psychological ailments.Pranic Healing is an ancient method of treatment which originated in the Orient. Its present form isthe result of several years of research conducted by Master Choa Kok Sui (World Pranic HealingFoundation) who perfected the ancient practice and its application to modern day health problems.The earliest Eastern references to Energy Healing are in the ancient Indian scripture, TaittiriyaUpanisad and in the Chinese Huang Ti Nei Ching Su Wen between 2,500 and 5,000 years ago.Extensive use of energy healing is evident in many ancient civilizations including Egyptian, Greek,Indian, European and Japanese. Prana is an Indian (Samskrita) word which means vital energy thatkeeps the body alive and healthy. The human body is known io have two aspects: a visible physicalbody that we can see and touch and an invisible body which is called the etheric body, the bioplasmicbody or the energy body. This energy field is known by different names such as Prana, Chi,Qi, and the Bio- plasmic body in different mytological scriptures. In Japanese, it is known as 'ki' orthe breath of life.

Pram'c Healing is based on two fundamental principles - the principle of self-recovery and theprinciple of life force.The principle of self-recovery means that in general, the body is capable of healing itself and canrecover within a few days. The healing process can be accelerated by increasing the life force in theaffected parts and on the entire body. The rate of healing is increased substantially when Pranicenergy is applied to the affected part of the body.Authors conversant with the use of energy based therapy consider health and disease to be closelyassociated to the existence and pattern of a subtle, invisible energy field that surrounds all livingorganisms. In the human body, this energy is described to have focal centers of origin/control atseveral anatomic locations, most of which are along the midline and in close approximation tonerve plexi. These are called 'Cakras'. In this century, the scientific liasis of energy therapy is beingexplored in more and more depth at an increasing pace.Various instruments have been developed to document the existence of the energy field and itsdifferent properties. Kirlian used a special technique to photograph the energy field (Kirlianphotography).A versatile gas discharge emission visualization (GDV) camera has recently been devised by Dr.Korotkov (St. Petersberg Technical University, Russia 1998). This instrument based on Kirlian effect.It documents and analyzes the bio-energy field from the fingertips after exposure to high frequency,high voltage current. Using the principle of acupuncture meridians, Korotkov et al have developed amethod of interpreting the changes in fingertip aura, to determine organ and behavioral function inhealth and disease. With training, it is possible for a therapist to examine this energy field and alterit so as to achieve balance or the normative pattern, which in turn results in resolution of physicalhealth problems. (Sui, 1983)Empiric use of Pranic Healing has been found to be beneficial in multiple disorders includingsymptomatic relief of pain, fever and diarrhoea acute and chronic infections; episodic disorderssuch as asthma and migraine; arthritis; hypertension; wound healing; and emotional problems.Pranic Healing has been used mostly as a complementary therapy to conventional or allopathictherapy. However, sometimes we have used it as the sole therapy, with benefit.3.4 POSTER PRESENTATIONSEFFECTS OF AGNISARA KRIYAKiran K S# 99 A, 13th Loop Road, Ideal Homes Town Ship, Rajeshwari Nagar, Bangalore - 560 039. Ph:8600012ABSTRACTThere are no better means than the yogic system of purification to keep the body clean and healthy.Six types of yoga, purification practices called Satkriyas, help to maintain them in the balanced form.They are Neti, Dhauti Nouli, Basti, Kapalabhati and Trataka. Agnisara Dhauti or fire purification as it

is described in Gheranda Samhita is also called by different names like Vahnisara Antar Dhauti,Uddiyana Kriya etc. Agnisara kriya is said to help in releiving gastric trouble. It also helps inreduction of waistline there by helping obesity people. The claims of Gheranda Samhita arevalidated by demonstration of significant reduction in waist line.There are no better means than the yogic system of purification to keep the body clean andhealthy. Our body has 3 basic properties viz., Vata, Pitta and Kapha. If these three are present in thebody in the balanced form, the body remains pure and disease free.Six types of Yogic purification practices called "Satkriyas" help to maintain them in the balancedform. Our present day habit of consuming unnatural food and leading a sedentary life-style is thecause of several body disorders through the accumulation of impurities in the body. To removethese impurities "Satkriyas" are prescribed. They are Neti, Dhauti, Nauli, Basti, Kapalabhati andTrataka. There are different types of Dhauti like Vamana Dhauti, Danda Dhauti, Vastra Dhauti,Agnisare Dhauti etc.Agnisare Dhauti or fire purification as it is described in Gheranda Samhita is also called by differentnames like Vahnisara Antar Dhauti, Uddiyana Kriya etc. Agnisare Kriya is the basis for practicingUddiyana Bandha and the king of Kriyas called Nauli Kriya.METHODPlace your hand on your knees and stand on your feet keeping them one foot apart. Bend slightly atthe knees and stoop forward. Inhale deeply. While exhaling, pull the stomach back towards thespine. Again, while inhaling, let the stomach come back to its original position. Repeat this processfor about 10 times in the beginning and increase gradually. After completing the practice, stand upstraight and relaxcompletely. This is done by rubbing the stomach gently with the right hand palm in the clockwisedirection (Pradakshina Hasta) and with the left hand palm in the anti clock wise direction(Apradakshina Hasta).In Gheranda Samhita, it is described as fire process . This gives success in the practice of yoga. Itcures all the diseases of the stomach.In Hatayoga Pradipika, it is said that cough, asthma, enlargement of the spleen, leprosy anddiseases of the stomach are cured by Dhauti Karma.EFFECTSAgnisara Kriya is helpful to persons suffering from gastric trouble. Increased waistline is a commonproblem faced by many persons in the society. It leads to obesity, which is the root cause of alldiseases. Practicing Agnisara regularly reduces the waistline of the sadhaka and hence preventsobesity. This kriya should be practiced preferably in the mornings on an empty stomach afterevacuating the bowels. This kriya is also helpful to persons suffering from constipation, weight gainetc.RESULTSCase 1 : Sri U aged 32 years reduced his waistline from 34 inches to 31.5 inches

after he started practising Agnisara Kriya regularly.Case 2 : Sri B aged 61 years reduced his waistline by 6 inches in 4 months after he started practisingthis kriya. The above results can be illustrated with a histogram:REFERENCES1. Hatha Yoga Pradipika2. Gheranda Samhita3. Satkarma Vidhi by Sri. Sriraghavendra Swamiji of Malladi Halli.EASILY ACCESSIBLE SALVATION YOGA PRACTICEV D DeshpandeNo. 326, Shaniwar Peth, Hnd Floor, Sitaram Mansion, Pune - 411 030. © 4450406ABSTRACTAuthor discusses about salvation as a stage where one does not get involved in the emotions andattachments. This is achieved through easy yoga practice of Sandyashram tradition. Salvation is notachieved after death but it is the amalgamation of one's Somatic Consciousness with the CosmicConsciousness. During the process one travels through the 'Chromosphere', 'Photosphere' andultimately enters the 'Cosmosphere' which is the penultimate stage of salvation. Then he enters'Absolute Absence' which is also the state of'Salvation'.The Vedic Philosophers have accepted the cycle of birth and death. A human life is packed withmore miseries and few moments of happiness. As the person wanted to get rid of this cycle, hefound out the way-out and outcome of this way is called 'SALVATION' which is the point of noreturn.The central idea behind this is the acceptance of cosmos which is infinite in all directions and fullypacked with Cosmic Potential Energy having the sense of being present which is called as 'COSMICCONSCIOUSNESS'.According to Astrophysicists, there was a big explosion in this Cosmic Potential Energy. Thispotential energy gave rise to Kinetic Energy and finally to Matter. (Refer to Einstehien EquationE=MC2). This is the process of expansion. After expansion, the contraction process starts; andMatter amalgamates in the Cosmic Potential Energy. Further, the Cosmic Potential Energy dissolvesin the absolute absence. These two processes are continuously going on since the time unknown.During the expansion process, the Cosmic consciousness gets coating of energy-consciousness andMatter consciousness one over the other and together gets a general name as 'SomaticConsciousness'. Somatic consciousness is wonderful human mind, which enjoys happiness andsuffers from miseries too.Physical contraction, after the completion of physical expansion takes a very long time. Humanmind can follow the contraction from matter consciousness to cosmic consciousness and then toABSOLUTE ABSENCE' by dissolving the human mind-cellinto absolute absence with a less time taking process. Here, absence is not the antonym ofpresence. This is 'SALVATION'.The "EASY" Yoga student, first enjoys the chromosphere, where he sees to display of rainbow

colors. He then goes to 'LACTOSPHERE' and finds himself amidst a bright fog. Further, he enters'PHOTOSPHERE' and gets in the realm of very bright sunlight. After this he goes to 'COSMOSPHERE',which gives the experience of ocean of bright glittering golden light. Here he gets rid of worries,anxieties and emotions. This is the penultimate stage of 'SALVATION'. During Meditation, he is asilent witness of things happening in his mind and around.These steps resemble with the great Indian philosophy known as the Vedanta.1. I am that2. Everything is that3. Whatever is present will be absent after some time. Present and absent both will be dissolved inspace.4. Space will be dissolved in the cosmos leaving behind the sense of being omnipresent.For complete free state of mind he must go in the state of absolute absence, which is ultimate stageof 'SALVATION'. A person enjoys a mind with balanced views, without any prejudices, a true feelingof equality which loves friends and foes in the same manner; a compassionate like a rational humanbeing.CONCLUSIONAs per 'EASY-YOG' practice of SANDHYASRAM tradition. SALVATION is not the achievement to beachieved after death. But my Yog-Student can enjoy SALVATION in this birth only in their day-to-daylife. In the penultimate stage of Salvation, the student does not get involved in the emotions,thoughts about the lust for life, expectations and the normal attachments of the human beings.Student's Somatic Consciousness gets amalgamated with Cosmic consciousness.PSYCHONEUROIMMUNOLOGY AND INTERVENTION STRATEGIES - A REVIEWRaghavendra Rao M, Chandrashekara S, Nagarathna RVivekananda Kendra Yoga Research Foundation Bangalore, IndiaABSTRACTA recognition of the interactions between the nervous, endocrine and immune systems and theirclinical and bioregulatory implications has spawned the exciting field ofpsychoneuroimmunology. Traditional immunologic theory has held that the immune systemoperates in a reflex like manner, with the central nervous system playing little, if any role inmodulation of immune functions. Numerous summaries of clinical and experimentalobservations challenge this view and suggest that psychological and emotional factors mayprofoundly alter resistance to disease in general and WBC function in particular. Studiesexamining the effects of psychosocial factors and stress on a variety of immune measures have

revealed central nervous system mediated change in immune functions that can alter the healthstatus. Central nervous system is capable of detecting alterations in immune responses andsubsequent to detection is able to initiate a change in immune response upon reexposure to theconditioned stimulus. As the immune system is influenced by CNS factors, it is a potentialmediator of psychosomatic phenomena. Despite the existence of a vast literature supporting therole of psychological factors in the onset and exacerbation of psychosomatic disease; many ofthese studies are unclear and still others are correlational with little evidence of cause- effectrelationship between mental events and immune system.Stress is defined as the physiological, psychological and behavioral response of an individualseeking to adapt and adjust to both internal and external pressures (stressors). The responseselicited by stress ; cognitive (eg. emotional distress) or noncognitive (eg. immune insults such asinfection) appear to have multiple functions. Not surprisingly therefore the pattern ofresponses is dependent on the nature of stress, its intensity, duration (acute, chronic,intermittent) hosts nutritional and immunological status, ethnicity, age, socioeconomicconditions and genetic makeup. In acute stress there is secretion of glucocorticoids andphysiological arousal following the stressful episode which is essentially a tailing off response todampen the stress. It is only when the stress becomes chronic or intermittent with persistingstressful stimuli and maladaptive coping life styles that the body's homeostatic mechanism getsdisturbed and leads to immunological hyperactivity (allergies), hypoactivity (cancer) andimmune aberrations (autoimmune diseases).ROLEOFCNSIN IMMUNE MODULATIONVarious hypothetical models have been put forth over the decades enumerating the variouspathways by which stress influences the immune system. The stress induced immunedysfunction model proposed by Irwin. M is illustrated in the fig.l. This model predicts thatvarious stressors and buffers in the social environment will act through individual adaptation toproduce biological changes in endocrine and immune systems that can result in illness.Cortical and limbic system (nucleus and centres in hypothalamus, medulla, pons and midbrain)are involved in altered immune responses to stressors, behavioural conditioning andpsychosocial factors. These are the sites that respond to administration of cytokines,immunization by altered neuronal activity and monoamine metabolism. These areas have highdensity of glucocorticoid receptors which regulate the balance of neuroendocrine andautonomic outflow. A Typical neuronal circuitry concerning the organisation of central

mechanisms has been proposed by Sawchenko. All the visceral and sensory inputs relayed tothe Nucleus of Solitary tract, paraventricular nucleus and central nucleus of amygloid complexlead to fall out of specific neurotransmitters like epinephrine, neuropeptide, enkephalin,galanin etc. which stimulate various neighbouring nucleii and various centres and cause releaseof corticotrophin releasing factor, vasopressin and oxytocin stimulating the anterior pituitaryand posterior pituitary or directly activating the autonomic nervous system.The autonomic and neural connections consisting of two chains for sympathetic andparasympathetic connect the brain stem to spinalchord and target organs ( cardiac muscle,smooth muscle, exocrine glands and cells of the immune system).Signalling between the nervous and immune system occurs bi-directionally via chemicalmediators such as hormones, cytokines, neurotransmitters, neuropeptides and receptorspresent on the target cells of both systems. Signalling molecules provide integrated responsesbetween neurons and lymphocytes. Thus lymphocytes act as"Sensory organs" convertinginformation from contact with pathogens to useful endocrine signals mediated by release ofcytokines which influence the brain (Blalock J.E. et al 1984). Various studies on animal modelshave corraborated the evidence of CNS influence on the immune system such as removal ofpituitary gland or denervation of nervous communica tions produce striking changes in thelymphoid tissue morphology and immune system.STRESS AND ITS EFFECTS ON THE IMMUNE SYSTEMIn particular there has been a growing interest in how stress with its accompanying influenceson autonomic, endocrine, psychological and behavioral responses may effect the functioning ofthe immune system with wide ranging implications for the pathophysiology and treatment ofdisease. There are many studies supported by anecdotal evidence about increased stress andsusceptibility to infectious disease. Retrospective studies reveal that stressful life eventsincrease the risk of contracting upper respiratory tract infections and studies on latent Herpesvirus infection suggest that disease episodes follow emotional distress.The immune system is gifted with the memory for recognising "self from nonself' just like thehigher centres of CNS. The immune system is also gifted with specificity also termed adaptiveimmune responses carried out principally by the T lymphocytes which recognise and bind toforeign antigens by virtue of receptors on their surface formed in the early stages of theirdifferentiation and proliferation when they first come in contact with the antigen. The criticalstep in mounting effective immune response against an infectious organism is the bringing

together of antigen ,the antigen presenting cell and the lymphocyte with the correct receptorspecify in an environment which is condusive for clonal expansion of lymphocyte count. Theprobability of this specify and contact is influenced by a variety of factors which when alteredby stress reduces the efficiency of immune response.Stress is known to suppress the immune system by the release of stress hormones like cortisol ,adrenaline etc. and by sympathetic activation causing release of catecholamines throughperipheral nerve endings or directly into the circulation through adrenal glands. They effect theimmune system by:1. Altering the migrating characteristics of leukocytesPhysiological changes of cortisol levels influence leukocyte trafficking in cohesion withcircardian rhythm. Peak numbers of T & B lymphocytes occur at night when cortisol levels arelowest and lower numbers in the morning when it is highest. There's found to be rapid loss oflymphocytes from circulation on administration of hydrocortisone. Sympathetic stimulationcausing vasoconstriction of the vessels and affecting migration and immune surveillance.2. Altering cell growth, proliferation and differentiationGlucocorticoids extend both positive and negative influences on cell growth de-pending ontheir concentrations. They suppress proliferation and differentiation of lymphocytes andNatural Killer cells by inhibiting release of cytokines and growth factors. They are known toinduce apoptic events causing cell death and useful in preventing autoimmunity and activatingof oncogenes. Stimulation of sympathetic causes release of granulocytes from the marrowindicating that haemopoieses and granulopoieses is responsive to neuronal signals.3. Alterations in the release of cytokines and neuro peptidesGlucocorticoids suppress the release of these soluble mediators and exert theirant-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. Sympathetic activation suppresses thecellular immune response but activates antibody production. .Majority of stress response to situational changes are homeostatic and adaptive. Howeverwhere coping appears to be compromised , pituitary-adrenal activation occurs simultaneouslyto deal with the situation. Long term over activity in these networks in association with a defectin endogenous opoid control (dynorphin) may be associated with severe psychopathology as indepressive illness and chronic anxiety state. There is no steady homeostatic state in the bodysince most of the physiological changes are oscillatory ,it is the abnormal oscillatory statescreated by stress which influence the changes in immune system and lead to disease.INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN PSYCHONEUROIMMUNOLOGY (PNI)The intervention strategies in PNI mainly focus on stress management evolving appropriatecoping mechanisms like relaxation training, imageries, meditation , isometric exercise and

pranayama .The autonomic nervous system acts as a neural matrix coupling states of mind withmetabolism and immune system. Various studies indicate that lateralised cerebral states maycorrelate with lateralised expression in the immune system (Stein .M 1985). During the pastthree decades research studies suggest connection between imagery/emotions and improvedphysical functioning have been available (Klopfer, 1957; Simonton et al, 1978; Cousins ,1976).There have been clinical confirmations that this relationship applies to all bodily systems.including the immune system (Achterberg,& Lawlis 1981,Borysenko ,1987). Various studies onhealthy subjects with guided imagery following training in neutrophills was significantly corelated(p<0.5) with adherance function of neutrophils . Exercises are also known to profoundlyinfluence the changes in immune system. However an effective imagery requires a strong beliefon the subject to influence the immune system, knowledge of specific functions and anatomyof the cells ,vividness of the image, awareness of functions being altered and depth ofrelaxation. Most of the studies have concentrated on the immunological changes initiated bypsychological factors in pathological states but have not strived to apply nonpharmacologicalinterventions described above in mediating a change in immune modulation.REFERENCES1. Achterberg , J. & Lawlis, G.F. 1979. A canonical analysis of blood chemistry variables relatedto psychological measures of cancer patients. Multivariate Experimental Clinical Research 4,1-10.2. Ader, R.1981. Psychoneuroimmunology. New York: Academic press.3. Bartrop R.W et al. 1977. Depressed lymphocyte function after bereavement. Lancet 834-836.4. Gruber , B.L. et al. 1988. Immune system and psychological changes in metastatic cancerpatients using relaxation and guided imagery: A Pilot study . Scandinavian Journal of BehaviorTherapy 17,25-26.5. Marvin R.Brown et al. Stress Neurobiology and Neuroendocrinology. New York. AcademicPress.6. Nicholas J. Goulding and Roderick J.Flower. Glucocorticoids and the immune system A reviewarticle .1997. New England Journal of Medicine , 7, 98-103.7. Rogers , M.P. Dubey, D. & Reich .P. (1979). The influence of psyche and brain on immunityand disease susceptibility: A critical review .Psychosomatic Medicine 41, 234-364.8. Sklar L, & Anisman.H. (1979). Stress and coping factors influence tumor growth. Science205,513-515 .

9. Stein M. Bereavement Repression ,stress and immunity. New York Raven Press, 1985:29-443.5 CASE PRESENTATIONSINSOMNIAH S Keshava MurthyYoga Expert, Chinmaya Yoga Centre, 41, Vth stage, Rajeshwari Nagar, Bangalore - 560039.ABSTRACTSleep is a boon as well as a curse to human beings. A healthy adult needs at least 6 hours of soundsleep per day preferably during the night. For some, 3 hours of sound sleep may be sufficient tocarryout normal work. There are many reasons for lack of sleep. One important reason forinsomania may be mental stress. Two cases of insomnia in our centre were cured by administeringyoga therapy which included dieting, nature cure techniques, asanas, Pranayamas, Dhyana andSavasana.Sleep is a boon as well as a curse to the human being. A healthy adult needs sound sleep of at leastsix hours per day preferably during night for three hours. For some, three hours of sound sleep maybe sufficient to carry out normal work. Intellectual and aged people require five hours of sleep.Hard working people need eight hours of sleep, but sleep is an essential factor for all, to be healthyand strong.Insomnia means lack of sleep . Although this is mostly observed in aged people, it is not uncommonamong yougsters. If a student gets sleep as soon as he takes a book, then sleep becomes a curse.CAUSE FOR INSOMNIAThere are many reasons for lack of sleep, so one cannot come to the conclusion that any particularreason is the cause of insomnia. Among many reasons the most important may be mental. Forsome lack of money for some others the expenditure and for yet others, how to safegaurd themoney? Where to deposit, how to invade Income Tax, danger from thieves and robbers. Anotherimportant reason is lack of good excercise to the mind and body, lack of good circulation of VyanaVayu through the body. Last but not the least may be consumption of drugs, liquors and smoking.KINDS OF INSOMNIAThough there are many types of insomnia, two types are worth noting: people murmur duringsleep, which is named as somniloquism. Another type of insomnia is somnambulism in whichpeople resort to all kinds of activities like walking, talking, taking bath etc. All disorders of insomniacan be controlled by the practice of yoga.YOGA THERAPYYogasana : Janusirshasana, Parvatasana I and II, Paschimottanasana, Parvatasana, Utthanasana,

Sarvangasana and Prasarita padotthanasana. Each should be performed for two minutes.Pranayamas : Nadishodhana Pranayama, Bhastrika Pranayama, Bhramari Pranayama, Shanmukhimudra. Dhyana for five minutes. Savasana for 5 minutes.Diet (Pathya) : Diet also plays an important role to cure insomnia, sattvic food, sweet curd, pulses,butter milk and two to three liters of water per day.Apathya: Avoid late meals during the night, avoid to go to bed soon after consuming food, less foodduring night, Citrus fruits, spicy foods, salt and pickles.Prakriti Cikitse : Walk a mile after night food, neither too fast nor too slow. Before you go to bed,drink a tumbler of luke warm water and sit in a chair keeping the legs in tolerably hot water for tenminutes and listen to music during that period. After meditation for three minutes, go to sleep. Youwill get sound sleep for 5 to 6 hours.RESULTSCase 1 : Sri Ravindranath, 35 years was suffering from Insomnia. He was getting sleep only for twohours during the whole night. After practice of yoga as given above for 10 days, he was able to sleepfor eight hours during night. Now he complains of getting more than required sleep!Case 2 : Sri Vijaynath Shenoy 72 years old used to sit and spend the whole night observing how hischildren and grandchildren were sleeping. After practice of yoga for two months, he started gettingsound sleep.WONDERS OF YOGA THERAPY ACHIEVED IN OUR CENTREObesity and Overweight: Mrs. Salima Ali, 45 years, mother of 10 children reduced her weight from80 to 70 kgs. Mr. Basava Aradhya, 62 years reduced his belly by 12 cms.Headache and Sinusitis : Dr. Pallav Chatterji, MBBS, MD 30 years old got rid of his disorders by Yogatherapy. He also got complete relief by Suthraneti.Diabetes : Sri Basava Aradhya, 62 years. His blood sugar level was brought down from 345to 90.Height: Sri Amith Rai, 15 years, height improved from 154 to 174 cms.Ulcer : Sri MS Patil, Advocate 32 years, whose date was fixed for operation of D. ulcer but got rid ofthe ulcer completely in one and a half months.Heart Diseases : Mr. Sharma, 62 years, a retired engineer, who was suffering from heart disease,has shown improvement in a fortnight and he was able to drive his car for 50 kms.Arthiritis : Mr. S. Krishnappa, 80 years old was suffering from pain in the knee joints for the last 10years. After 15 days of practice, he was completely cured and stopped medicine. Now he is 88 yearsold and doesn't have any complaint and he is working as a purohit,

activelyHunchback : Mr. K.P. Pramod, 17 years old 165 cms has hunchback. After regular practice of yogahe was set right.Blood Pressure : Dr. Shankaran MBBS. DCH whose blood pressure was 150/110. It was reduced to120/80 in one month.EFFICACY OF YOGA IN CORONARY ARTERY DISEASESDr T A Ramanujachar, Dr M S Krishna Murthy, Sri K R MuralidharRamamani lyengar Memorial Yoga Institute, Pune Chief Advisor: Yogacharya Dr BKS lyengarABSTRACTIschemic Heart Disease is one of the common problems of the elderly, especially in those who arediabetic. A number of studies have been pointing to the role of yoga as an adjunct in itsmanagement. The aim is to evaluate the role of yoga therapy in an advanced case of ischemic heartdisease, when commenced in immediate post infarction period. Yoga Therapy is a very useful modeof therapy even in immediate post acute phase of IHD and may delay or postpone or avoid the needfor surgery if done routinely under good supervision.The incidence of CAD (Coronary Artery Disease ) is on the, increase alarmingly worldwide; more soin the western hemisphere. It has pervaded 'The oriental population because of the adoption of thewestern style of living. In U.S.A. it is the 2nd commnest cause of death next to cancer. This hascaused a lot of socio-economic problems. In the last two decades this has necessitated a number ofinvasive treatment regimens like PTCA (Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angiography) andCABG (Coronary Artery Bypass Graft) which are out of reach for even the upper middle class.Secondly, it is not the final cure - is inadequate, temporising than healing, does not address theunderlying cause. This is prone for recurrence. In this context the introduction of yoga therapy isgaining ground, as an alternative mode of treatment. It not only improves or corrects the coronarypathology, but also improves the overall physical, mental and spiritual well-being of the patient. It isnot only curing but healing. This regimen is of negligable and easily affordable. This case report isbeing presented in this Conference with the sole purpose of impressing upon the medical facultyand enthusiasts the efficacy of yoga therapy in CAD as a cheap alternative to the prohibitively costlyand invasive procedures.CASE REPORTMr 'K' 74 years old male presented to us with history of having been treated for recent inferior wallinfarction with hypothyroidism reputed local private hospitalfrom 11.7.98 to 20.7.98 with thrombolytic agents (thrombokinase and hepharin) along withdilatiazem, isosarbide mononitrite, metaprolol ecosprin etc. He had two episodes of post infarct

angina on 16.7.98 and 20.7.98 inspite of the treatment. He was shifted to a cardiac care centre forfurther evaluation, underwent coronary angiogram and Echo etc.CORONARY ANGIO REVEALED - Triple Vessel CADLAD - 80% - 90% stenosis in two tandem long segments.80% - 90% stenosis in proximal segment, osteal stenosis 20-30%.Minor plaques in mid segments.50% -60% in distal segments.Long stenosis at the apex.CIRCUMFLEX: Non dominant with 30% stenosis in mid segments.R.C.A: 95% ulcered proximal stenosis in the mid segment and 50% distal stenosis.L.V. ANGIO: Normal systolic and diastolic dimensions. Mild posterobasal inferior hypokinasia.EJECTION FRACTION: 60%, No M.R. No ClotsDOPLER STUDIES: L.V. Mild posterbasal hypokinasia, good L.V. function, L.V. Diastolic dysfunction.Otherwise normal.Other Studies: Like EGG changes and enzyme studies were consistent with A.M.I. Lipid profile waswithin normal limits.Border Protinurea.He was Advised: CABG with grafts to LAD, DI, OM, PD. Patient refused surgery and opted for YogaTherapy with medical line of management.He was started on Yoga Therapy on first week of August, 1998 as per the protocol of Dr. BKS lyengaralong with life style modification. The asanas are as follows :1. Savasana on heart bed - 5 minutes2. Sukhasana with opening of chest with the help of a wooden block3. Suptabaddha Konasana - 5 minutes4. Purvothanasana - 5 Minutes5. Viparita Dandasana - 5 Minutes6. Setubandha Sarvangasana - 5 Minutes7. Viparita Karani - 5 MinutesS. Sarapanjarasana - 5 Minutes9. Savasana with spinal bolster - 10 MinutesAll these postures are all modified by Dr B K S lyengar using various kinds of props devised by him.He was advised a low, fat, vegetarian diet; (Of, course he is a strict vegetarian) with plenty of freshvegetables and fruits. We did not insist on any type of meditation. He was advised regular walkswithin his limitation, (with his effort tolerance). Within 3 weeks the patient showed both subjectiveand objective improvements like frequency and duration and intensity of angina reduced, efforttolerance increased. He could walk two kms. without-pain, climb 3flights of stairs and lost 5 kgs. of weight (69 to 64kgs.), he was looking more bright and agile. E.C.G.began to improve after 7 weeks and kept on improving slowly. His antianginal and other drugs were

gradually reduced in dosage starting from 12th week onwards. Now he can walk 3 kms. and isattending to his normal work.Echocardiographically there was a significant improvement in ejection fraction from 60% to 70%A,and found disappearance of significantly noted posterior wall hypokinasia found in immediate postinfarction period.DISCUSSIONStress has been accepted as one of the leading factors in the causation of CAD. Other risk factorslike high cholesterol, obesity, atherosterosis high blood pressure, smoking, lack of exercise is onlyhalf of the story. Blakenhorn et. al. of University of California, School of Medicine; Helsinki Studies;Lipid Research Clinic; National' Heart, Lung and Blood Institute of U.S.A. have proved that there isno stastically significant reduction in the incidence of CAD and mortality by using cholesterolreducing drugs, and marginally reducing the fat intake from 40% - 30% on the other hand DeanOrnishes, studies have proved that by adopting a low fat (15%) vegetarian diet containing complexcarbohydrates; stress management by yoga, abstinance from smoking, cutting down on/stoppingalcoholic beverages can increase the coronary arterial blood flow even upto 270% withoutcholesterol lowering drugs. Their dosage of drugs like antianginal, antihypertensive, antiplatelet,have been gradually tampered and eventually withdrawn, flanchands of AIMS, New Delhi hasconducted controlled, randomised prospective study on 42 angiographically proved patients similarto that of Dean Ornishes. After one year he has shown excellent results.Yoga which is a complete way of life rather than merely some asanas may produce changes in theneurohumoral system and bring about harmony between the body and the mind. K N Udupa ofE.H.U. has shown that yoga acts on the autonomic nervous system resulting in the production orregulating the beneficial neurohumors. Re.cent investigations have shown that there are a numberof neuropeptides which influences the brain cells to produce emotions. Brain also communicateswith immune system through neuropeptides. Macrophages are called wandering synspses carryingand releasing neuropeptides throughout the body. Perhaps this may have beneficial effects on thepathology of the CAD. Further research is needed in the direction to unravel the mysterious waythat yoga helps to cure and heal. Perhaps there is truth in what Aristotle had said 'the centre ofthoughts (emotions) lies in the heart and brain helps to cool the body'.Our studies on Mr. K. has shown results consistent with Dean Ornishes and Manchanda's study. Inconclusion yoga and a comprehensive life style change may prevent /reverse the CAD. It may provean alternative to prohibitively costly invasive procedures like PTCA and CABC and adjuvant tomedical management. It may prevent unwanted complications resulting from the invasiveprocedures. It may change the scenario and its management in future.

PHYSIOTHERAPY AND YOGA THERAPY FOR OSTEO- ARTHRITISK Vidya LakshmiPhysiotherapist, No. 41, 5th Stage, Rajeshwari Nagar, Bangalore - 560 039.ABSTRACTOsteo-arthrosis is the general complaint of old age especially in females after menopause. To reducepain and restore mobility, a combination of physiotherapy and yoga practices including meditation,deep breathing and a few asanas has been tried for 15 days.5 women (aged between 33 to 45 years) underwent two weeks of yoga program. All of them hadankle pain, 4 had shoulder pain, 4 had knee pain and one had elbow pain. In the first week theywere taught breathing exercise and physiotherapy exercise.In the second week they learnt 5 asanas in addition to the first week practices. At the end of thesecond week there was reduction in pain in all 5 of them, 90% in two, 75% in one and 50% in twowomen. The Yoga technique has reduced the tension and anxiety in patients while the asanasintroduced after the reduction of pain and swelling have restored the mobility of joints to aremarkable extent.Administration of both Physiotherapy and Yoga Therapy gives an interesting result in case ofosteoarthirities. Osteo-arthirities are of two types. They are:1st type : Which affects one joint generally a large joint as hop or shoulder and a disease of old age.The exact cause probably an injury.2nd type : Beginning in late middle age, attacks first in hands and spreading to other joints. Itprobably attacks the hands because these joints have been so much used in course of life. This typeis common in women than in men and often begins at the menopause.Both forms are due to fault of metabolism and not bacterial infection. There may be a hereditarydefect in the articular cartilage.PATHOLOGYIn this type of arthirities, cartilage is first attacked and becomes hyperaemic and fibrous. The softstructures round the joint next become involved. Scheamie degeneration taking place in theligaments. Later, Synorial membrane becomes inflamed. Sometimes, parts of these fringes breakoff, forming loose bodies in the joint.SYMPTOMSIn the first type, the disease comes on gradually. One of the large joints - hip, knee or shoulderbeing generally the first to suffer and other joints involved later. The local symptoms are chronicinflammation, swelling and joint may become much enlarged owing to the formation ofOsteophytes. Pain and aching are felt in the affected joint, worse when the limb is kept constantlyat rest, creaking in the joint is always present. In the polyarticular form, the small joints of the

hands are first attacked and may spread to other joints.TREATMENTThe aims of the treatment are: 1) To reduce pain 2) To restore mobility 3) To avoid contracturesApplication of heat improves circulation in and around the joints which reduces the pain. For deepseated joints like hip, spine, shoulder, short-wave diathermy will probably give the best result.Parafin and wax - both are also very useful for smaller joints.To restore mobility, strong forced passive movements and to improve strength, pulley exercises aremore useful.In case of knee : (i) knees-up pulling, (ii) high sitting lift 1-2 kg of weights to improve strength atknee joint. For shoulder joint, pendulum exercise will help a lot.Diet: (1) One glass of warm water with one spoon honey (2) Avoid oily foodstuff.Meditation and breathing exercise: Deep breathing exercise followed by meditation will help todecrease the tension.Yoga Therapy : Once the pain is reduced, simple yogasanas are advised.1st week:1) Svastikasana2) Ardhacakrasana3) Ardhakaticakrasana4) Makarasana / Bhujangasana5) Anuloma - Viloma pranayama6) Meditation / Supta Visrantiasana2nd week:1) Svastikasana2) Ardhacakrasana or Ardhakaticakrasana3) Makara / Bhujanga & Salabhasanas4) Pavana Muktasana or Cakrasana5) Setubandhasana6) Anuloma / Viloma Pranayama7) Nadisodhana Pranayama8) Meditation / VisrantiasanaSpecial Instructions: 1) To avoid sitting in on place for more than half an hour 2) To walk 100 stepsdaily after supper.Following are the tables showing how physiotherapy and yoga therapy helped in treatingOsteoarthirities.FIRST WEEKName Age Complaints ResultsMrs. Shantala 43 Shoulder Pain, Ankle joint pain 50% Relief of painMrs. Girijamma 35 Knee joint pain No changeMs. Lakshmi G 33 Elbow, Knee & Ankle joint pain 75% Relief of painMrs. Kumuda 40 Shoulder Joint pain Pain reducedMrs. Shanta 45 Knee and Ankle joint pain 50% Relief of PainSECOND WEEKName Age Complaints ResultsMrs. Shantala 43 Shoulder Pain, Ankle joint pain 90% Relief of pain

Mrs. Girijamma 35 Knee joint pain 50% improvedMs. Lakshmi G 33 Elbow, Knee & Ankle joint pain 90% improvementMrs. Kumuda 40 Shoulder joint pain 50% reliefMrs. Shanta 45 Knee and Ankle joint pain 75% ReliefROLE OF YOGA THERAPY IN PEPTIC ULCERA CASE STUDYS B Jogdand Ph.D NDRader and Head Dept. of Botany, S C S College, Omerga-413 606 Dist. Osmanabad M.S. India-091ABSTRACTThis is a case where patient was suffering from an acute peptic ulcer. He was looked after first byphysician and next he was asked to go to a surgeon. The surgeon warned him that if he did notundergo surgeory he could only survive for not more than 6 months. It was a challenge to thepatient. The patient was none other than the author himself.Harmful items from the regular diet were stopped. Spices, condements severely sour and oily foodwere restrained. Heavily pungent food, potato, pulses, tamarind, rumex etc. were kept away fromconsumption to avoid hyperacidity. Yoga therapy was administered with pranayama, meditationand yoga nidra. Along with this about 36 yogasanas were pressed into practice. The problems facedwere gradually minimised and at the end there was a feeling of having completely cured and healed.Twnety three years have passed since then. The doctor's warning of a death bell has neither made asound nor the patient suffers from any sign or symptom of the disease.I was detected as acidity patient during 1976. I suffered from acute acidity with all the usualsympotms like chest burning, vomitting sensation, indigestion, followed by frequently recurringheavy Mouth Ulcers and hyperacidity making me quite restless and feverish. I was admitted in arenouned hospital at Ahmednagar and treated by a famous Physician. Then the case was referredto a popular surgeon, he diagnosed it as a severe peptic ulcer and warned me that if you do notundergo surgery you can never survive for more than six months. I wasquite afraid of surgery anddeath as well. Still I accepted his challenge.So I studied my own physiology and observed the harmful items from my regular diet and stoppedtaking food items like spices and condiments, severely sour and oily food, heavily pungent food,potato, pulses, tamarind, rumex etc. to avoid the hyperacidity but there was little use.Simultaneously I completed my N.D and yoga course at Pune (M.S). I started regular yoga therapyalong with Pranayama, meditation and Yoganidra. I used to do about 36 asanas in four postures.After 6 months of regular yoga, the acidity gradually subsided. It was a miracle, made by yogatherapy. After one year Abdominal pains subsided, digestion improved, registivity improved,gradually weakness had been minimised, spiritual power increased and subsequently I felt that

there is no illness at all. years passed by and still there was no recurrence of the Pepitc Ulceration,which was found completely healed and cured.Now twenty three years have passed after the doctor's warning there is no trouble, any sign orsymptom of peptic Ulcer.Through my experience of last 20 years of yoga, I am of the opinion now that these hopeful resultsmay be due to integrated effect of all the asanas together, which I practiced regularly during last 20years.My regular schedule included Warm up movements of legs, hands and neck. Followed by :1) Utthana padasana 2) Pavanamukta asana 3) Asvini mudra 4) Noukasana 5) Viparitakarani 6)Sarvangasana 7) Halasana 8) Matsyasana 9) Savasana 10) Bhujangasana 11) Salabhasana 12)Dhanurasana 13) Hanumanasana 14) Makarasana 15) Agnisara 16) Simhamudra 17) Yogamudra inVajrasana 18) Suptavajrasana 19) Ustrasana 20) Yogamudra in Padmasana 21)Vakrasana 22) Ardhamatsyendrasana 23) Udarakarsana 24) Cakrasana 25) Katicakrasana 26) Tadasana 27) Vrkshasana.After completion of yoga I used to practice some pranayamas like 1) Deep breathing 2) Fastbreathing 3) Sitali 4) Anuloma viloma 5) Bhramari 6) Aurhkar 7) Yoganidra.This peculiar yoga therapy was preceded and followed by prayers and slight meditations, which wasfound quite effective tonic for the tranquality of mind.Occasional Sankha Prakshalana and Vaman were also found useful for this purpose.In addition to good effect of pranayama, prayers and meditation, some of the asanas, and mudraswere found more effective than others. The more effective one's are 1) Simhamudra 2) Yogamudra3) Kapalabhati 4) Agnisara 5) Aurhkar 6) Dhanurasana 7) Bhujangasana 8) Salabhasana 9)Jalandarabandha 10) Yoganidra and others which were found more useful for peptic region. Thusconclusively it may be stated that overall Yoga therapy was found quite effective for curing pepticUlcers, mouth Ulcers or Ulcers in any part of the alimentary canal.

YOGA THERAPY1

CONTENTSChapter 1 Role of Yoga in total health 3-18Chapter 2 Health management throughYoga and naturopathy 19-34Chapter 3 Utility of science of living in lifebuilding 35-46Chapter 4 Common Yogic and naturopathicPrescription for healthy living 47-73Chapter 5 Outcome of spirituality: vasudhaivkutumbakam 74-76Chapter 6 Formation of sacraments in girls:first through prekshdhyan Yoga 77-90Chapter 7 Concept of thought 91-95Chapter 8 Physiological effects of asans andpranayam 96-104Chapter 9 Role of Yoga in coronary heartDisease 105-113Chapter 10 Yogic Management of Diabetes 114-121Chapter 11 Yogic management of hypertensivePatient 122-127Chapter 12 Obesity, causes complications and Yogic2management 128-136Chapter 13 The spiritual and scientific aspects ofSuryanamaskar 137-147Chapter 14 Special situation in modern life inrelation to problems of infusing ofYogic practices in day to day life 148-156Chapter 15 Importance of Yogic lifestylefor school children 157-163Chapter 16 Importance of Yoga in thedevelopment of ideal life style:with special reference touniversity student 164-172Chapter 17 Management of dietary fats for healthyliving 173-179Chapter 18 Effect of Yoga-nidra on hypertensivepatients 180-2003

Chapter-1Role of Yoga in total healthWhat is Yoga?Yoga is the science of life and the art of living. It is the commonsense answer to overall physical and mental fitness. BasicallyYoga is a system of physical and mental self improvement andfinal liberation, that people have been using for thousands of years.Yoga arose in the age of the Vedas and Upanishads. It is India's

oldest scientific, perfect spiritual discipline. Yoga is a method oftraining the mind and developing its power of subtle perceptions sothat man may discover for himself the spiritual truths on whichreligion, beliefs and moral values finally rest. It is realization ofour hidden powers. Swami Shivananda said, "He who radiatesgood, divine thoughts does immense good unto himself and to theworld also". Yoga is science of life, it offers us simple, easyremedies and techniques and methods of health and hygiene toassure physical and mental fitness with a minimum of time,effort and expense.Yoga in other term Preksha Dhyan invented by prominentJainacharya Mahaprajna is such an uncomplicated, easy to learntechnique of meditation. It comprised of the following—i. Kayotsarga (Total relaxation)ii. Antaryatra (Internal trip)iii. Svash preksha (Perception of breath)4iv. Sharir preksha (Perception of body)v. Chaitnya-kendra preksha (Perception of psychic centers)vi. Leshya dhyan (Perception of psychic spectrum)vii. Perception of the present momentviii. Perception of thoughtsix. Self-disciplinex. Bhavna (counter-vibrations)xi. Anupreksha (contemplation)xii. Concentration.Yoga is one of the most ancient metaphysical sciences, whichinvestigates the nature of soul and, through its discipline, awakensthe super-conscious mind of the man which unites the moral beingwith the immortal supreme spirit. Yoga leads to balance and alsoprovides both a philosophy and a religion. The real joy of lifeappears when we can unify nature and culture, wealth and poverty,movement and stillness, attachment and detachment. Yoga canserve both the individual and society. Yoga is neither a sect noran ideology but a practical training of mind and body. Broadlyspeaking, it has three main outcomes : it makes us more aware ofour natural wisdom, it strengthens the body's ability to recoverfrom illness or injury; it teaches us how to co-operate with others.Yoga teaches us truth through mind and body rather than theory, itbrings about deep change of attitude. The entire thrust of our life isto devote total attention to every action and, at the same time, totrust in the power of sacred.5Eight stages of Patanjal Yoga are :i. Yama : The universal moral laws.ii. Niyama : Personal moral roots of conduct.iii. Asan : Yogic postures.iv. Pranayama : Acquiring and controlling prana or energy,by means of the breath.v. Pratyahara : The withdrawl of the senses from the outerenvironment.vi. Dharana : Concentration.

vii. Dhyana : Meditation.viii. Samadhi : Enlightenment.Yoga is also a technique for achieving purest form of selfawareness,devoid of all thoughts and sensations. Today somekind of reconstruction of thought is necessary to understand clearlywhat the great Yoga teachers of the past have taught. Patanjali, thesystematiser of Yoga, has explained the thoughts throughYogasutra. In the Gita and Upanishads we find a broader andpositive expression of Yoga. Our ancient masters through Yogateach us an art of living a life for eternally blissful experiences ofeven flow of happiness by removal of miseries and sufferings ofour limited life. The term Yoga means a systematic practice andimplementation of mind and body in the living process of man tokeep harmony with in self, within the society and with nature.6Kundalini Yoga is a systematic and integrated practice for bodyand mind and its thrust to make a man creative. By a new method,which is wholly safe, one can get the Kundalini power aroused inminutes. Hence this method is called the simplified KundaliniYoga, abbreviated to "SKY". Kayakalpa is the culmination ofKundalini Yoga and its objective is to enable the practitioner topostpone the ageing process and death. In all sky centers in India,Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Japan and USA, KayakalpaYoga is now being taught at regular intervals. These two yogicpractices are very important in karma Yoga, the world religion.

What is total healthHealth is precisely, that condition in which human being hasfull sensitivity and in which all his faculties are operating fully.To actively work towards this condition is to cure illness and todevelop maximum health. Yoga is both a philosophy and a livingreligion, believes that the body is so important and trains it sostrictly. Without health we can neither practice meditation norattain enlightenment. For total health one should seek the truth byskepticism. The body mind system possesses the innate power ofrecovering health and the yogic method of curing human ills, aimsat stimulating it. Prominent health specialist Ben Jonson said, "O,health! health! the blessing of rich! the riches of the poor! who canbuy thee at too dear a rate, since there is no enjoying the worldwithout thee!”7Preksha (means to see inside with full concentration) may appearto mean different things to different people because it contributesto increase physical, nervous as well as spiritual energies. As perprominent Jainacharya Mahaprajna inventor of PrekshaDhyan Yoga total health consists of physical, mental, emotionaland spiritual health.i. On physical level, it helps each bodily cell to revitalizeitself; it facilitates digestion, it makes inspiration moreefficient and improves circulation and quality of blood.ii. On mental level it proves to be an applied method to trainthe mind to concentrate; it offers way to treat seriouspsychosomatic illness without drugs; it is an efficient tool

for ending addictions and other bad habits; it reveals to onethe mysteries of his mind by the realization and realexperience of the inner consciousness which includes thesubconscious and the unconscious.iii. On the emotional level, the strengthening of consciousreasoning controls reactions to environmental conditions,situations and behaviour of others; harmonization of thefunctioning of nervous and endocrine system, results incontrol and ultimate eradication of psychologicaldistortions.iv. On spiritual level, regulation and transformation of bloodchemistrythrough proper synthesization of neuroendocrinal8secretions, dispassionate internal vibrations leads one toattain the power to control the mind and to become freefrom the effect of external forces compelling one to lose toequanimity.The following table shows the relation between endocrineglands and the Chaitnya-kendras :Endocrine glands Chaitnya-kendrasPineal Jyoti-kendraPituitary Darshan-kendraThyroids Vishudhi-kendraThymus Anand-kendraAdrenals Taijas-kendraGonads Swasthya-kendra and Shakti-kendraConstant triggering overreaction of the lower endocrine glands viz.adrenals and gonads result in pernicious habits, effecting ourphysical and mental health. For good physical health Dr Dasturrecommends: Sleep on a thin firm mattress with a wooden boardunderneath. Don't sleep on foam rubber mattress. Prolonged standing in one place puts great pressure on thespine, shift your weight from one foot to other to relieve thestrain. Learn to relax when under stress. Do not lift a heavy load with straight knees from the floor.Bend your knees and lift it up.9Jainacharya Mahaprajna inventor of Preksha Dhyan Yoga inspiresfor maintenance of total health:i. For maintenance of physical health one should always walkin morning fresh air and should observe Asans andPranayama.ii. For maintenance of mental health one should get rid ofworries and should deep dive in meditation and kayotsarga.iii. For achieving emotional health one should think positiveand should always live in present and not in past or future.sound health and peaceful mind are a must for man to enjoythe material world and develop the consciousness to itsperfection. In order to achieve this purpose of birth one has tomaintain harmony between body and life force, life force and

mind, between individuals and society and between nature andwill. Practicing appropriate exercises of body and mind and avirtuous way of living to maintain the harmonies described aboveconstitute Yoga. Thus Karma Yoga is a system of life utilizing thefull potential of the body and mind with understanding andawareness for a happy, prosperous and peaceful life. Allexperiences in life are enjoyed only by the mind. Mind is theperipheral stage of consciousness. In the infinite state, theconsciousness itself is the truth. As a man is endowed with thesixth sense which inherits the purpose of the realization of self, intime he should realize the self, which is consciousness. By10realizing consciousness man can live with satisfaction,harmony and peace. Realization of consciousness is the onlyone perfect and higher knowledge by which one can knoweverything in the universe. The mind is nothing but theextended and perceptional activity of the consciousness.One should do every action, whether thought, word or deed, with aperspective awareness not to inflict pain to self or others, at presentor in future, to the body or mind. Physical and mental health areimportant for a happy and successful life. One has to maintainthese with due care, following moderation in the following fiveaspects of life :i. Food,ii. Work,iii. Rest,iv. Sex,v. Use of thought-force.These five should not be neglected, over-indulged or improperlydealt with. The proportional requirements of daily food are 10%protein, 10% fat, 40% carbohydrates and 40% vegetables andfruits. Protein, the essential food-element, is best provided by milk,curd, soyabeans, drynuts, pulses and lentils. Carbohydrates arestarchy food consist in rice, chapatti, grains, maiz, oats, potatoesetc.11Man's existence is connected with physical cells, brain, biomagnetism,life force and sexual vital fluid. If he neglects, overindulgesor improperly deals with food, work, rest, sex and use ofthought-force, he has to suffer from illness and sorrow. As everyaction brings an appropriate result, he should deal with all the fiveaspects of life in moderation. Following the principle of limit andmethod in every enjoyment is detachment. Keeping the physicalbody in a healthy condition and the mind is highly culturallyenlightened level and thereby leading a creative life so as to bea useful member of the society thoughtout the span of one's lifeis the chief aim and thrust of Karma Yoga. An integratedpractice of reorganizing and restructuring the body and the mindfor a newly planned life is Kundalini Yoga. Kundalini is the lifeforce. For all human beings the working centre of the life force isin the sexual gland called technically mooladhar in spiritualterminology. Only when the working centre is shifted to the point

between the eyebrows (Agya chakra), the mind can perceive itsexistence and functions. So in Yoga practice, raising the workingcentre of the life force and making the aspirant to feel it at theAgya chakra point is initiation.

Role of Yoga in total healthYoga blends the two states tension and relaxation. Life alwaysseeks to restore balance and the ideal state is that in which staticforce and dynamic power are in harmony. In this state, the deepest12relaxation is found within the highest tension and this forms thebasic for the new life of service and cooperation. The basiccharacteristic of Yoga is its use of meditation, for by utilizing thisdiscipline, the mind and body are purified and adjusted andpersonality is heightened. Yoga enables everyone to moretowards that state of developed consciousness which is onenesswith the sacred. The first step is to harmonize, purity andstrengthen both body and mind. In Yoga we find people practicingfasting, celibacy, the renunciation of wealth and possessions aswell as living home, loved ones and society. The aim is alwayssame to control desires and since desire is mental and emotional,there are many ways of doing it. Fasting is the most natural andfundamental training for the control of desire, being practicedinstinctively by animals and primitive men who live close tonature.There are seven centres for meditation in the body. Each centre isconnected with its relevant endocrine gland as below. Meditationon any chakra should be learnt and practiced under the guidance ofa master in Kundalini Yoga. Self effort in this Yoga should bestrictly avoided as it could lead to complications.Chakra Endocrine glandMooldhara Sex glandSwadhisthana Connecting sex gland and adrenalsManipuraka Adrenal glandAnahata Thymus gland13Vishuddhi Thyroid glandAgya PituitaryBrahmarandhra PinealA regular practice of Yoga 30 to 50 minutes daily with faith in"self", proves a blessing in the form of spiritual illuminationwhich slowly develops into awareness of reality.The main purpose of practice of Preksha Dhyan Yoga (To seeinside with deep concentration) is to purify the mental states.Mind is constantly chocked by contaminating urges, emotions andpassions. This hampers the flow of wisdom. The hurdles ofuncleanliness must first be removed. When the mind is cleaned,peace of mind automatically surfaces. Balance of mind, equanimityand the state of well-being are also experienced simultaneously. Itshould always be remembered that the ultimate aim of Sadhna ispurity and equanimity-freedom from contamination of passions.The state of well-being is not our ultimate aim; it will inevitablyensure; nevertheless, it is not the objective. Similarly peacefulness

is also a secondary benefit and will always be achieved, but not theaim. We have to transcend both these mental states to reach ourultimate purpose. Viz. total purity of mind and goodness.Realization of truth is the birthright of everyone; everyonehas the natural potential with in. Karma Yoga will add all people torealize the Truth when they wish for it. A karma Yogi can doimmense good to himself and others by blessing self, life-partner,children, sisters and brothers, close-friends, bosses and assistants14and enemies too, if any, the whole world of humanity forindividual peace, harmony in the society and peace among allnations.One should steadfastly observe five duties in life towards :(i) self, (ii) family, (iii) relatives, (iv) society and (v) worldcommunity, giving importance to each in the above order withoutneglecting any of the other four. One should allot at least 1% of hisincome to be spent only for the help and welfare of the needy. Inorder to achieve the purpose of life and develop one'sconsciousness, one must learn and practice meditation on the lifeforce,which will result in peace of mind, physical health andenlightenment of consciousness.Yoga maharshi swami Deva-Murti offers to every earnest seekerhis seven master keys which will also ensure realization of hisspiritual goal and destiny:i. One mother, one wife/husband,ii. Jaisa Anna Taisa Man,iii. Spinal twelve Exercises,iv. Netra-Jyoti-Prakashini Neti,v. Pranayama,vi. Nauli Kriya,vii. Firm belief in God (spirituality).Yogis and mysties have proclaimed that coiled serpentine powerlies locked in Kundalini, and that the spinal chord with its seven15chakras is the mystic reservoir of human energy. A very largepercentage of human illness can be attributed to the wrong postureand consequent distortion or malfunctioning of the spinal chord.So, figuratively speaking, charging the spinal chord is rechargingthe human battery and build up an immense reservoir of humanenergy.Right physical and mental posture for effective meditation are :i. Physical - A stabilized posture which is, in fact, the naturalbody. Balanced breathe and the practice of right diet.ii. Mental - Original mind, detached, purified, strengthenedand active. The mind of faith arising from a developedphysical and emotional centre of the body.Yoga began at least six thousand years ago and hascontinuously been enriched by the wisdom accumulating fromhumanity's struggle for survival. But such practices as rightposture, correct breathing and sound diet have a wider relevance,for they can be seen as the factors necessary for maintaining the

integrity of the life-force, health, society and even the cosmic laws.Those people who use Yoga just for exercise or relaxationor to calm the mind, fail to understand the aims of Yoga. Aims ofYoga are:i. To bring us to greater humanity.ii. To awaken in us the mind of service.iii. To bring us to true meditation.16Most of the Yoga that is taught today is not real Yoga. That isbecause it neither pursues nor maintains these aims. Furthermore,because most Yoga is unbalanced, it actually harms people bydeveloping them one sidedly. If a human being can live strictlyaccording to nature he will have total health and happiness,because such a way of life is balanced. One sided trainingmakes people unbalanced and neurotic. The blessing of totalhealth comes to those who find their own individual life-styleand adhere to it. It does not come to those who merely acceptthis or that ready made system.

ConclusionYoga is the science of life and the art of living. It is India'soldest scientific, perfect spiritual discipline. Yoga is a method oftraining the mind and body for discovering spiritual truths. Yoga isscience of life, it offers us simple, easy remedies, techniques andmethods of health and hygiene to assure physical and mentalfitness with a minimum of time, effort and expense. Yoga isneither a sect nor an ideology but a practical training of mind andbody. Yoga is also a technique for achieving purest form of selfawareness,devoid of all thoughts.Health is precisely, that condition in which human beinghas full sensitivity and in which all his faculties are operating fully.According to prominent Jainacharya Mahaprajna inventor ofPreksha Dhyan Yoga—total health consists of physical, mental,17emotional and spiritual health. Sound health and peaceful mind area must for man to enjoy the material world and develop theconsciousness to its perfection. By realizing consciousness mancan live with satisfaction, harmony and peace.Realization of consciousness is the only one perfect andhigher knowledge by which one can know everything in theuniverse. The man is nothing but the extended and perceptionalactivity of consciousness. Keeping the physical body in a healthycondition and the mind in highly culturally enlightened level andthereby leading a creative life so as to be a useful member of thesociety throughout the span of one's life is the chief aim and thrustof Karma Yoga.Yoga blends the two states tension and relaxation. Yogaenables everyone to move towards that state of developedconsciousness which is oneness with the sacred. The main purposeof practice of Preksha Dhyan Yoga (to see inside with deepconcentration) is to purify the mental state.A regular practice of Yoga 30 to 50 minutes daily withfaith in "self", proves a blessing in the form of spiritual

illumination which slowly develops into awareness of reality. If ahuman being can live strictly according to nature he will have totalhealth and happiness, because such a way of life is balanced. Oneside training makes people unbalanced and neurotic. The blessingof total health comes to those who find their own individual life18style and adhere to it. It does not come to those who merely acceptthis or that ready made system.

References1. Meditation and Yoga—Masahiro Oki, published by Oki Yogapublications, Japan, first edition, 1978.2. Yoga and Health—Swami Manuvaryaji Maharaj, Dundubhiprinters, first edition, 1994.3. Preksha Dhyan Basic Principles—Acharya Mahaprajna, JainVishva Bharati, Ladnun (Raj.), January-2003.4. Preksha Dhyan Theory and Practice—Acharya Mahaprajna, JainVishva Bharati, Ladnun (Raj.), January-2003.5. Preksha Dhyan Human Body (part-II), Health Care—J.S. Zaveri,Jain Vishva Bharati, Ladnun(Raj.), edition 1993.6. Karma Yoga—Yogiraj Vethathiri Maharshi—Vethathiripublications, Erode (T.N.), third edition, 1995.7. Yoga-Praxis—Yoga Maharshi Swami Deva Murti, 1971-72,International Yoga Centre, Schloss Aubach, West Germany.19

Chapter-2Health management through yoga andNaturopathyWhat is Yoga?Yoga is a science as well as an art of healthy living. It is noway limited by race, age, sex, religion, caste, creed and any otherboundaries and can be practiced by those who seek an educationon better living and those who want to have a more meaningfullife. Yoga is the surest way of complete health. Yoga is thescience of life and the art of living. It is India's oldest scientific,perfect spiritual discipline. Yoga is a method of training the mindand body for discovering spiritual truths. Yoga is science of life, itoffers us simple, easy remedies, techniques and methods of healthand hygiene to assure physical and mental fitness with a minimumof time, effort and expense. Yoga is neither a sect nor anideology but a practical training of mind and body. Yoga isalso a technique for achieving purest form of self-awareness,devoid of all thoughts.Integral Yoga equips us with the right tools to handle life'suncertainties in a remarkable calm manner. It is nothing mysticaljusta practical and scientific guide to an improved way of life. It isthe science that harmonizes the mind body connection mosteffectively. It is a power tool for facing life's challenges with an20attitude that will delight us. It has four major tools which are wellmeshed into one another :(i) Postures (Asanas) for physical exercise.(ii) Meditation for mind exercise.

(iii) Breathing (Pranayam) for channeling energycorrectly.(iv) Deep relaxation.Naturopathy is a philosophy of balancing the energy systemof the body-physical, emotional and spiritual using the naturalmethods, prevent stress and distress on the organs and promotesoverall well-being and rejuvenation.

Benefits of YogaAt the physical level Yoga and its cleansing practices haveproven to be extremely effective for various disorders. Yoga isbeneficial as follow:(a) Increasing flexibilityYoga has position that act upon the various joints of thebody including those joints that are never really on the "radarscreen" let alone exercised.(b) Increasing lubrication of the joints, ligaments andtendonsThe well researched Yoga positions exercise the differenttendons and ligaments of the body. Surprisingly it has been foundthat the body which may have been quite rigid starts experiencing21a remarkable flexibility in even those parts which have not beenconsciously work upon.(c) Massaging of all organs of the bodyYoga is perhaps the only form of activity which massagesall the internal glands and organs of the body in a thoroughmanner, including those such as prostate-that hardly get externallystimulated during our entire lifetime. Yoga acts in a wholesomemanner on the various body parts. This stimulation and massage ofthe organs in turn benefits us by keeping away disease andproviding a forewarning at the first possible instance of a likelyonset of disease or disorder. One of the far-reaching benefits ofYoga is the uncanny sense of awareness that it develops in thepractioner of an impending health disorder or infection. This inturn enables the person to take pre-emptive corrective action .(d) Complete detoxificationBy gentle stretching muscles and joints as well asmassaging the various organs, Yoga ensures the optimum bloodsupply to various parts of the body. This helps in flushing out oftoxins from every nook and cranny as well as delayed ageing,energy and remarkable zest of life.(e) Excellent toning of the musclesMuscles that have become flaccid, week or slothy arestimulated separately to shed excess flab and flaccidity.22

Attitude training in Yoga therapyMost of the Asans and Pranayam are classified as if theyare for particular physical or mental problems. For examplematsyendrasan Asana is good for a diabetic patient or savasana isgood for controlling high blood pressure. As a matter of fact, onlyAsanas or Pranayam is not going to help if it is done in a

mechanical pattern or form. There are other factors, which areplaying a major role in recovery process. The Yoga therapist mustand should impart the technology and philosophy of this sciencewhile providing the training to their patients. The traditional posesare not at all suitable to the needs of the men of this age where ourlife style is completely different from those of the old days. It ismore important to teach more simplified versions as Yoga is nonspecificwhen it comes to effective and positive results, especiallyif other factors are not incorporated, for example, diet, routine,positive attitude, openness to accept the changes and learning newhealthy habits etc. These other factors are :(i) AwarenessA person who is practicing Yoga as a therapy mustunderstand the reason for this practice. It is not important that thepose should be perfect in order to get its benefit but moreimportant is the awareness of the body and attitude.23(ii) ConceptThe concept of pose and Pranayam must be explained andshould be very clear before its practice. The scientific explanationis a must.(iii) CommitmentThere has to be a commitment from both the sides-thetherapist and the practioner. There must be a mutual understandingthat one is there to explain and teach and the other is these to learn,recover and gain.(iv) DedicationQuite often people are taking up Yoga as an experiment.Sometime when all other doors are closed, people come to Yogapractice and expect a miracle or instance change or recovery. Justas there is a big difference in allopathic medicines and herbalmedicines, likewise there is a big difference between other holisticphysical training and Yoga. Once the person feels some positiveresults, he has to practice on a regular basis as a routine. Once aweak, one hour practice is not going to help.(v) Trust and faithJust as a patient trusts his doctor or any other healthpractioner, in the same way there has to be a faith and trust inwhatever the patient is practicing during Yoga therapeuticsessions. It is very important that a good relation is maintainedduring the treatment and follow up sessions.24(vi) AttitudeOften, people who believe in other faiths or religions arenot ready for certain Yoga practices when it comes to thephilosophy and devotional practices for relaxation and meditation.The attitude is that "I want to learn Yoga but I do not want to learnphilosophy, I am here to learn only poses and breathing." In otherwords, "I want to learn swimming but without getting wet. It isvery important far a therapist to provide the scientific explanationswith spiritual support. All Yoga practices are based on the laws of

the nature. It is very true that the science of Yoga was developed inIndia and majority of Hindu people practice that. The base is ofHindu, Jainism and Buddhism faith-but as a way of life. All Hindu,Buddhist and Jains scriptures and literature are explaining Yoga.One has to have some sort of knowledge of Bhagwat Gita, PrekshaDhyan, Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Health Yoga Pradipika and suchtexts.Here the intention is not to teach the religion but thephilosophy behind the practice. If certain techniques are practicedwith a certain attitude then it helps, more than a mechanicalpractice e.g. chanting of OM as an universal sound. Many attitudesare cultivated while practicing any pose. Each and every move canprovide a space to learn a certain attitude if explained anddeveloped during its regular practice. It could be from gross to the25subtlest level, that will help the practioner in the long run tochange his life style and in cultivating healthy habits.

Health management through Yoga positions(Asanas)Yoga poses have ban developed over centuries of researchand experience. They have been found to be extremely effective.We should adopt Yoga positions and preferably Yoga routine inour life. Yoga results in huge benefit in terms of :(i) Correcting metabolic disorders.(ii) Overcoming stress and mind behaviours that seembeyond our control.(iii) Changing firmly entrenched attitudes or personalitydisorders. Integral Yoga ensures all roundpersonality and health development byconcentrating on Yoga positions, meditation,pranayam techniques and body cleansing methods.Yoga has simple and effective body movements thatstrengthen our back, firm the stomach and redistribute bodyweight. Yoga exercises stretch and tone the body muscles. Toincrease endurance and improve flexibility, Yoga asanas orpositions are the best among all exercises for toning muscles,lubricating joints and massaging the body. Yoga postures bringphysical as well as mental stability. These asanas were developedthousands of years ago and have evolved over centuries. They26work wonders in keeping the body healthy and the mind peaceful.Asanas exercise the nerves, glands, ligaments and muscles. Inother words, Yoga exercises are the most comprehensive methodof self care. Although the asanas are very powerful, the effectbecomes dramatic when they are done the right way. The mindmust be in harmony with the body movements, for this it isessential to equip overselves with the other tool of Integral Yoga.We must always begin with simple poses and graduallyovertime move towards the complex ones. It is not as if maximumbenefits cannot be achieved with simple positions. Quite contrary,maximum benefits would be achieved by what is "acceptable" toour body. To achieve the maximum benefits of Yoga, a specific

Yoga routine must be developed by first basic positions to freevarious rigid joints and get the mind in suitable mode. Only thenwe should be moving to these positions. The process of Yoga isjust as important as the result.

Health management through Preksha DhyanThe main purpose of the practice of Preksha Dhyan is topurify the mental states. Mind is constantly choked bycontaminating urges, emotions and passions. This hampers theflow of wisdom. The hurdles of uncleanliness must first beremoved. When the mind is cleaned, peace of mind automaticallysurfaces. Balance of mind, equanimity and the state of well beingare also experienced simultaneously.27It should always be remembered that the ultimate aim ofsadhana is purity and equanimity-freedom from contamination ofpassions. The state of well-being is not our ultimate aim ; it willinevitably ensure ; nevertheless it is not the objective.Similarly peacefulness is also a secondary benefit and willalways be achieved, but not the aim. We have to transcend boththese mental states to reach our ultimate purpose, viz. total purityof mind and goodness. Preksha Dhyan is an uncomplicated, easy tolean technique of meditation. It is comprised of the following :(i) Kayotsarga (Total relaxation)(ii) Antaryatra (Internal trip)(iii) Swash preksha (Perception of breathing)(iv) Sharir preksha (Perception of body)(v) Chaitnya kendra preksha (Perception of psychiccentres)(vi) Lesya Dhyan (Perception of psychic colours)(vii) Bhavana (Auto-suggestion)(viii) Anupreksha (contemplation)We live in the age of tensions and because we areconfronted with more and more situations that produce stress,increasing numbers of people at younger ages are suffering fromhypertension which results in high blood pressures, heart attacksand premature deaths. Our most pernicious anxiety involvescommon problems of daily life such as the daily commute in acongested city, rising cost of living, unabating shortages of daily28necessities, polluted air and water. These and many other insolubledifficulties appear to have been built into our daily life. Bodilymovements, speech and mental functions are three fold activities ofour organism. One of the facets of meditational practice isreduction or total cessation of each of these activities. Three typesof meditational practices thus ensure from the trinity of activities.As per prominent Jainacharya Mahapragya inventor of PrekshaDhyan total health consists of physical, mental, emotional andspiritual health.

Health management through Naturopathy(I) Cure of heart disease by NaturopathyMillions of people in the world suffer from the diseases of

the heart and blood vessels. The heart which is muscular pump,keeps the blood circulation continuous. But when there is a breakdown of this complicated mechanism, blood supply to a part of thebody may be affected leading to what is known as heart attack. Butwith naturopathy the following cardiovascular diseases can becured : Coronary Thrombosis-sudden blocking of one of thearteries.Arteriosclerosis-hardening of arteries.Degenerative heart disease-gradual decay of blood vesselsdue to excessive smoking of tobacco. Hypertensive heart disease29straining of blood vessels due to high blood pressure. This leads tohardening of blood vessels, hence diminishing the supply of blood.High blood pressure (Hypertension)-Blood pressureremains high leading to disorder like lack of strength, bad temper,visionary troubles, tiredness, headache, coldness of hands and feet.Nature cure Routine-mudpack Specific—full massage (reverse direction), neutralspinal spray, ice massage to spine.(II) DiabetesDiabetes a very old disease, has a common featureexcessiveaccumulation of sugar in blood, due to malfunctioning ofpancreas. The general prevalent method of treating the diabeticpatient is to inject insulin to compensate what could be producedby the pancreas. The yogic treatment restores the normalfunctioning of the pancreas and other endocrine glands. Thechemistry of the body becomes normal leading to a healthy body.Nature cure Routine-enema, mudpack Specific-full massage, partial massage to abdomen, coldabdomen pack, cold hip bath.(III) CancerCancer has affected millions in the entire world. It is thefobia of the disease which causes more suffering than the caner30itself. In cancer, floating starved non-functional cells grouptogether and manifest themselves as toumers, ulcers and cancer.Nature cure Routine-enema, mudpack, cold spinal spray/bath, wheatgrass juice therapy, grape diet. Specific-full massage, steam bath, under watermassage, cold circular jet.(IV) ObesityObesity is becoming a common health hazard and leads tomany other diseases like coronary heart disease, high bloodpressure, diabetes, psychosomatic disorders and a shorten life span.The main cause of obesity is excessive eating. The best methodto control weight is to reduce the intake of protein, carbohydratesand fat and increase the supply of mineral and vitamins and alsoincrease exercises.Nature cure

This method of cure involves body purification. Themethod lightens the body and makes it free from toxins and morbidmatter which in turn results in problem free weight loss. Theprocedures are :Full body dry friction-for 10 minutes daily.Enema (colon irrigation)-with luke warm water, alternatedays.Steam bath-20 minutes, twice in a week.31Hot foot bath-20 minutes, 5 days per week.

Heath management through chakras—centres ofconsciousnessLevel-I of Amrit Yoga-chakra 1 to 4A primary focus of Amrit Yoga is to build heat by chargingbattery of the body, which is based in the lower three centres. Asthis energy is aroused and consciously directed from the lowerchakras to the upper ones, our biological prana awakens to itsevolutionary potential. Awakened prana, called kundalini, carriesout healing and cleansing at an accelerated level resulting in thepurification of the nerve channels in the body as well as cleansingkriyas-all of which prepare the body for accelerated spiritualdevelopment.(i) Muladhara chakra (roots, alignment, earth)Muladhara is the body in physical space and time,developing grounded ness, stability and foundation. In AmritYoga, the attention is alignment in all poses, building awarenessand strength in the legs especially all standing poses. Anything thatstabilizes and roots the foundation reinforces muladhara.(ii) Swadhisthana chakra (sensation, flow, water)In swadhisthana chakra we become aware of the senses,sensation (pleasure/pain) and emotions that accompany each pose.32We allow our awareness of ecstatic energy to build in the secondhalf of the pose. Suggested poses include pigeon, bridge and hespinal twist.(iii) Manipura chakra (flower, fire)In manipura, our fire (spiritual heat) is stimulated. We"jump-start" the battery of the body, the physical storehouse ofenergy, through strong standing poses like the warrior. The willfulaspect of the practice is also associated with chakra three. Here weare building the battery in the belly and then consciously directingthat energy upward. This is an essential part of consciousgeneration and directing of energy is necessary for prana toawaken and move upward to higher centres.(iv) Anahat chakra (Awakening to the spiritual path)In Anahat, we are asked to open the heart. This requiresspiritual commitment to let the ego drop away. In Amrit Yoga theheart energy is engaged with the use of the arms, with mudras,giving and receiving movements, some heart opening poses can becamel, Yoga mudra, cobra, half locust (opens arms and heartmeridians) Breathe (lungs) and the forth chakra are closely

connected.33Level-II of Amrit Yoga (chakra 5 to 7)(v) Visuddha chakra (Internal/external)—the powerof sound vibrationVisuddha chakra is more apparent in level II of AmritYoga, but also in level I—we turn into vibration of prana thatsources the movement. Use sound vibration when in the pose andthe power of our word (opening intention and om) to create thevibration field we intend. Become aware of our own inner dialogueand if it serves us or not. In Amrit Yoga the throat chakra may bestimulated through chanting, bridge, camel and shoulder standpostures.(vi) Ajna chakra—the third eyeMeditation, witness, meditative, awareness, pratyahar, deepabsorption without choosing for or against what is present in Ajnachakra. In the second half of the pose and third eye integrationconsciouslyallow energies to grow with meditative attention anddraw freed energies upwards toward the third eye for integration.All forward bending poses where the head is lower than the heartbrings attention and energy to the third eye (child, Yoga mudra,wide angle forward bend)(vii) Sahasrar chakra (silence)In the sahasrar, the elixir of Amrita comes throughsilencing the fluctuations of the mind. This is the entry into thebliss body which can happen in the second half of the pose, in third34eye meditation integration or in any pose. All these practices ofAmrit Yoga are intended to reach the final point of stilling themodifications of the mind, which is always associated with theseventh chakra.

References(1) Preksha Dhyan : theory and practice—AcharyaMahapragya, Jain Vishva Bharati, Ladnun (Raj.),edition 2003.(2) Article by Manjari Bhatt, Yoga teacher and therapist—Yoga Education centre, Ontario.(3) Website—www.realbondmarketing.com(4) Meditation and Yoga-Masahiro Oki, published by OkiYoga publication, Japan, first edition, 1978.(5) Karma Yoga—Yogiraj Vethathiri Maharshi-Vethathiripublications, Erode (T.N.), third edition, 1995.(6) Yoga Praxis—Yoga Maharshi Swami Deva Murti,1971-72, International Yoga centre, Schloss Aubach,West Germany.35

Chapter-3Utility of Science of Living in building our lifeDeterioration of cultural valuesWe see that there has been a great deterioration in human

values all over the world. Eternal values like spiritualism, nonviolence,harmony, tolerance and truth etc. are getting deteriorated.That is why immorality violence, intolerance, terror, callousness,fear and discontentment are on the spread. Man fears his fellowbeings,there is no trust. The sources of pleasure, peace, happinessand sensitivity have dried up. Man is restless, frightened andscared. That is why the importance of balance between individualliberty and administrative control is being increasingly felt.Administration, discipline and self-restraint all the three areessential to society. Liberty in the absence of self-restraint amountsto madness and crime.1According to the famous literary figure Jainendra Kumar, "Culturecomprises human relations. Deformity occurs when violence gainsentry in these relations and it then poses a great threat to culture."Jainendra kumar has suggested a remedy too for this malady.According to him, there should be no pressure, no striking, nodisrespect between man and man. Instead, there should besympathy, respect and co-operation. There should be brotherhoodamong neighbours, economic relations should be based on cooperation,people should be willing to help other and privacy and36individuality of man should be maintained. All these factors areboth the necessities and the characteristics of culture.2 Accordingto prominent Acharya Tulsi, the founder of Anuvrata movement—only that culture flourishes and succeeds that produces personsdevoted to duty. A country maintains and preserves its culture,civilization, art and national integrity only on the force of its saintsand monks.According to Dr. Radhakrishanan, the only thing that can providedignity to mankind is its spiritual endeavour. No culture can bepermanent until it practices and supports this spiritual endeavour.3

Swami Vivekanand proclaimed, "India cannot die, it is immortaland will remain so long as a majority of people do not give upspirituality.4 In the present circumstances, Indians do not proud ofbeing Indians and how can they do so? So long as there is noIndianization of education, respect for nationality will not develop.He said that no importance is given to Indian vernaculars andIndian culture. We cannot have good and healthy citizens so longas Indian spirit is not introduced in education.5

Measures to be adopted for the protection ofIndian cultureThe main characteristic of Indian culture is the formation ofsuch rules and life-style that bring about the development ofphysical, mental and spiritual faculties, an over-all development ofpersonality. The whole concept of Yoga and the different methods37of meditation are the result of this very peculiarity. Nowhere elsedo we find such an arrangement for physical, mental and spiritualdevelopment. Putting into practice the famous saying, "Soundmind in a sound body", a well-planned programme was made forphysical development that helped in mental and spiritualdevelopment as well. In no other culture of the world is found such

an organized programme. This is the first and the foremostpeculiarity of Indian culture.6It is clear now that the values of human life and the gist ofculture can be learnt and taught in early childhood only. A vigilantand cultured man glows with the sense of life and sense of theworld. Without this vigilance and awareness, the importance ofvalues cannot be appreciated. Awareness of beauty, affection,harmony, equanimity, respect for all religions, tolerance, coordination,healthy feelings of heart, keen intellect, scruple, senseof the best forms of man, balance between liberty and equality,duties and rights are the essential elements of culture. Theeducation that is imparted to the students in the present time, doesnot provide these values to students.7Education is an indispensable part of development. Itremoves superstitions, social evils, false beliefs and refines life.Education has a two-fold function. On the one hand it teaches theart of living and on the other hand adds skill and efficiency totraditional arts. Educated persons are conscious of their aims andgoals and at the same time they are ready to meet the challenges of38time. But all these things are possible only when value-basededucation is imparted. The present education system providesnothing of the sort. The tragedy is that our language and culturehave been reduced to a secondary level in our own country andconsequently the desired results are not being obtained. Childrenare not being taught what they ought to be taught. It is futile toblame children for what they are learning in the name of standardof life, as the Indian spirit is missing in their education. Our culturecan be preserved only through the medium of education.8 Scienceof living has emerged as a ray of hope in this dark and gloomyworld. It is the lamp that will remove the darkness of ignorance.

Science of living : A sure means of building of lifeIt was winter break in the educational institutes. ATeacher's training camp pertaining to spiritualism, Yoga and moraleducation was organized in 'Tulsi Adhyatma Needam' from 25-12-1978 to 31-12-1978. Acharya Mahaprajna graced the occasionwith his benevolent presence. The need for a new system ofeducation was being keenly felt. There was a long discussion as towhat name should be given to this new activity. After muchthinking, Acharya Mahaprajna named this mammoth task ofproviding this spiritual, Yoga and moral education as SCIENCEOF LIVING. His suggestion was approved and applaudedunanimously and this new programme came to be implemented asScience of living. According to Acharya Mahaprajna, "Science of39living is the name of a coordinated and harmonized system. Thereis in it a coordination of non-violence, moral education andinternal change. It has been developed in the sphere to educationwith the coordination of Anuvrata and Preksha Dhyan." The mainaim of Science of living is the building of spiritual-scientificpersonality. One, taught by this method will neither be a scientistnor a spiritual entity only. One will have all the attributes of both a

scientist and a spiritual personality. This is the greatest requirementand the urgent need of the period. The acute problems of thepresent time need as immediate and sure solution and for this, it isnecessary to understand life and to make suitable changes in lifestyle,if needed.There are three aspects of Science of living : conative, emotionaland practical. Science of living aims at :(i) Finding out the rules of life by which all these three aspectscan be achieved.(ii) Finding out the rules by which a proper balance betweenemotional and intellectual development can be established.(iii) Finding out the rules by which intellect, pure conscienceand inner-self can be aroused.Acharya Mahaprajna has brought out the following aspectsof the science of righteous living :(i) Science of living is training of righteous living.(ii) Science of living imparts training in non-violence, moralvalues and brings about internal change.40(iii) Science of living is the co-ordination of Anuvrata andPrekshadhyan.(iv) Science of living is the study of anatomy of body and toobserve experiments with them.

Science of living and the components of lifeWhat is life? This is the first and foremost question thatconfronts every rational being. It is the first question becauseeverything depends on life. Everything may happen when there islife. If there is no life, nothing will happen. All the activities followlife. The end of life signifies the end of all the activities of mind,body and speech.It is a big question because the things have value when lifeexists and become meaningless with the end of life. Thecomponents of life are :1. Body,2. Breathing,3. Vitality,4. Mind,5. Emotions/aura/psychic colours,6. Karma,7. Consciousness,Let us ponder over them one by one :1. Body41The first component of life is body. Everything lies inbody. A physician too examines the body first of all, whensomeone complains of some ailment. And it is very mysterious. Aphysician examines the body from medical point of view. He triesto understand both the nervous system and the glandular system.But the concept changes when the body is studied from the point ofview of Science of living. There are certain centers in the bodywhere consciousness is highly dense centred. In Prekshadhyan,they are known as centers of psyche. Experiments in meditation

are carried out on them. If spiritual power is to be aroused, we willhave to concentrate on the center of intuition. If we want to bebalanced, disciplined and self-restrained, we will have toconcentrate on the center of purity. If the habit of drinking is to begiven up, one has to concentrate on the ear. Vigilance center is thecenter for de-addiction. Ten systems in all, such as digestivesystem, nervous system, respiratory system etc. are responsible forthe various activities of body. All these systems are closely relatednot only to the physical activites but to human behaviour also.422. BreathingThe second component of life is breathing. The brain hastwo sides—right side and left side. The breathe taken with the rightnostril activates the left side of brain. The various experimentsmade in breathing help in bringing about emotional change.3. Vital forceVitality is the main source of our life-force. Body isconducted by vitality. Breathing is conducted by vitality. Mind andspeech too are conducted by the force of will and speech. Balanceof vitality controls the whole life. When it gets imbalanced, thephysical health is affected adversely and the whole system of lifegets disturbed. In Prekshadhyan, there are many means that canmaintain balance in vitality—(i) Perception of body,(ii) Perception of Taijas center,(iii) Perception of purifying center,(iv) Perception of equanimous breathing.Health means balance of vitality. Man gets sick when thisbalance is disturbed. Vitality is a subtle element. It is not perceivedby any instrument. Hence it is unknown.4. MindThe fourth ingredient of life is mind. There are two stagesof mind—instability and concentration. An instable mind isresponsible for failure and a concentrated mind is the key to43success. The means by which concentration can be gained are asfollow :(i) Perception of deep breathing—rhythmic deep breathing.(ii) Restraint in breathing by adopting some particularprocedure—breath stopping.(iii) Perception of vitality center.(iv) Perception of Intuition center.(v) Perception of thoughts.(vi) Perception without a wink.(vii) Contemplation.Too much instability of mind causes many problems. Onthe other hand, concentration of mind provides solution to manyproblems. Memory, imagination and thinking all three are thebusiness of mind. When these three reach to an undesirable point,they cause mental tension.5. Psyche

The fifth ingredient of life is psyche. Psyche is a ray of thelight of knowledge. It is affected by our consciousness and inreturn, affects our gross body. Through brain and nervoussystem, it conducts and controls every activity of life—body,speech and mind. The aim of Preksha meditation is—purification of psyche. It aims at removing anything that coversconsciousness so that no dirt of delusion may defile it. The meansthat help purifying psyche are as follow :44(i) Perception of the centers of consciousness.(ii) Experience of attachment and aversion free moment.(iii) Experience of pure consciousness—equanimity.(iv) Thought-free meditation.(v) Experiment of knower—perceiver feeling.(vi) Psychical activity.(6) Emotions : Psychic colours : auraThe sixth ingredient of life is emotions. The test of thepurity or the impurity of psyche is the purity or the impurity ofemotions, psychic colour and aura. Success and contentment aregained by positive emotions. Healthy emotion is the basis of themental health. The basic aphorism of Preksha meditation isfreedom from physical, mental and emotional ailments. Maninstinctively wants to lead a life of ecstacy. Physical, mental andemotional ailment are the obstacles in gaining this state of absolutemeditation. In Preksha meditation, emotional health is given theutmost importance. If one is fit emotionally, one is sure to be fitmentally and physically too. The experiments for gainingemotional health are as follow :(i) Psychic colour meditation.(ii) Contemplation of friendship.(iii) Contemplation of compassion.(iv) Contemplation of tolerance.45Mind is a nonsentinent element. It is not self-conducted. Itsmotivating force is emotions. Mind is related to subtle body. Thereis a subtle body within the gross body and that is known as Taijasbody. That is an electrical body. In the center of that body areformed emotions. Emotions are the motivating and determiningfactors of life. They affects the psyche in the gross body. Thispsyche, through the brain, affects and conducts all theactivities of life.(7) KarmaThe seventh components of life is—karma. Karma is theresult of human endeavour. The endeavour of the present is knownas self-exertion and that of the past is known as karma. Karma isone of the elements that affect human life the most. This invisibleforce can neither be denied nor can it be regarded as supreme.Whatever happens in life is not always accidental, without rhymeor reason or result of circumstances. Some incidents may beaffected by circumstances but behind most of them there is somereason and that is karma. Some diseases too are the result ofkarmas. It is surprising that the physiologists who have

investigated each and every cell of body and have tried to find outthe bio-chemicals, did not come forward to search the soul. Thefirst step towards the search of the soul is the search of karma. Theways by which karmas can be transformed are as follows :(i) Indeterminate meditation.46(ii) Congitational meditation on worldly troubles.(iii) Righteous analysis.(iv) Psychic colour meditation.(v) Psychic center meditation.(vi) Prayer.The aim and object of Science of living is to study theeffect of Preksha meditation on these seven aspects of life withscientific tools and psychological tests in order to realize theinnumerable mysteries of life and for the building of life. In thedirection of understanding life as a whole, concentrating on theseseven points and constantly trying to refine them is the first step tobe taken by any human being. By paying full attention to theseaspects and by following them we can build our life and can mouldour character.

References1. Outline of culture and science.2. Education and Culture, Jainendra Kumar, 84-85.3. Our culture—Dr. Radhakrishanan.4. Development of Indian culture.5. One drop : one ocean.6. World religion perception, 400.7. Outline of culture and science.8. Prekshadhyan magazine, December, 1994.47

Chapter-4Common Yogic and Naturopathicprescriptions for healthy livingIntroductionDuring the prolonged process of evolution of Universe thehuman body is a creation of nature. A healthy human being in aspan of 24 hours produces 450 cubic tones of energy. He can speak4800 words; he can utilize 750 muscles, relaxes 7 million nervecells, respires 23040 times and heart beats 103689 times. Bloodcirculates through blood vessels to a distance of 1.68 billionkilometers. These vital processes are possible to continue innormal pattern only when there is a proper co-ordination andbalance between the process of respiration, digestion, nutrition andexcretion.The major biological systems function in a typical manneronly on the basis of the functioning of the above process. Withthis, one achieves an elevated status of healthy living. A healthydaily routine lays the foundation of a healthy life style. A personwith healthy life style, compared to others develops much betterphysically, mentally, socially and spiritually. In Yoga science, for

healthy living, there is significance of Yama, Niyam, Asana,Pranayam, Pratyahar, Dharana, Dhyan and Samadhi. In48Naturopathy various therapeutic measures which contributesignificantly towards the healthy living include; Hydrotherapy,Chromo therapy, Diet, Fasting therapy, Air etc. For a healthyliving it is also important to follow the laws of nature. Along withthis one must discard the ill habits which cause adverse effects onhealth.Following are the typical characters of healthy living:-1. Ailments free life.2. Desired preventive measure towards the physical, mentaland emotional factors.3. Perception with realities.4. Co-operative attitude and co-operative behaviour.5. Adjustment with the changed circumstances.6. Sensibility.7. Awareness of realities.8. Desired social and spiritual characters.9. Balanced emotional control and reconstitution.10. Lack of jealously, complexity and hatred.11. Unified personality.12. A proper co-ordination over the psychic stage,psychosomatic stage and organic stage towards theavailable health.

Standards of healthy living49Healthy living is governed by several factors. Healthyliving on one side affects physical and mental health and on otherside is influenced by living environment personal factors, familyrelation and the consumable food ingredients normally. Followingare the major factors:-1. Physical and mental disorders.2. Over all food and nutrition.3. Exercise.4. Regulated respiration process.5. Normal digestion and excretion.6. Stress-free routine.7. Contentment.8. Level of moral and traditional values.9. Physical and mental paucity.10. Positive thinking.11. Daily routine in compliance with nature.12. Control of lust and submission to God.13. Physical and mental total relaxation.

Barriers of healthy livingIn the ancient time man used to live in the midst of nature.As a result he was the master of health, personality, excellence,contentment and pleasure. On the other hand as of todayadvancement of science and technology as brought forth a heap of50option for physical comfort. Nevertheless, there is void with

respect to physical and mental health. In this background there is abest possibility of healthy living. Following are the barriers forhealthy living:-1. Uncontrolled food habit.2. Liquor consumption and smoking.3. Cardiac disorders.4. Hypertension.5. Diabetes.6. Obesity.7. Stress.8. Insomnia.9. Tension.10. Arthritis and other joint disorders.11. Constipation.12. Distress and disappointment.13. Frustration.

Role of Yoga in healthy livingYoga is a subject of science of high order, which carries init the mystery of conservation of health and transformation of life.A complete expression of life is possible only through Yoga.Yogasana, pranayam, meditation develops faith in a person, chieflybecause it is half a therapy. It is common saying that confidence is51half the cure. The concept of Ashtanga Yoga proposed byMahrashi Patanjali with different aspects have enormouscontribution towards healthy living as out lived here:1. YamaUnder this include different aspects such as Ahinsa, Satya,Asteya, Bhramcharya and Aparigraha. Through this first step ofAshtanga Yoga one turns to more ideal in his day to day life. Withthis he discharges his duties towards society in a more orderlymanner.2. NiyamaThe major components under this include Shauch, Santosh,Tapa, Swadhyaya, Ishwarpranidhan. Practice of this aspect ofYoga turns a person, more disciplined and orderly. With this onecan overcome the deformities of personal senses. In fact thereformation of personal actions for us is the basic foundation ofhealthy living.3. AsanasHaving achieved the perfection over the guideline of Yamaand Niyama only then one must commit for the practice ofYogasanas. Without this the Yoga practices is ineffective. Forvarious Yogasanas body is flexed for an specific posture regularlyat a given time for a given purpose. This exerts special effect ondifferent body joints, muscles, heart, digestive system, endocrineglands, lungs & nervous system. This revives the normal52functioning of respective organs and body system. At present timespecial significance to Yogasana is direct relation to healthy living.4. Pranayama

Pranayam is a highly sophisticated procedure of Yoga,where by one achieves a total control over the vital force whichgoverns the proper functioning of body’s life process. Pranayamhelps to tone-up the most vital activities of the body, such asrespiratory system, cardio-vascular system. In addition, itstrengthens the body immunity which is extremely important formaintaining the quality of life and healthy living.5. PratyaharThe real purpose of this Yoga practice is to drive thebody’s consciousness inwardly and focus at a pleasant thought or apoint of auspicious feeling. In a daily life the practice of suchyogic terms helps to achieve a high order of quality life.6. DharnaFor the purpose of achieving the spiritual excellence, thistype of yogic exercise, called Dharna carries special significance.It is mainly for the reason that Dharna itself means to focus on asolitary point through flow of thought. Continuity of this state istermed as- Dhyan, which is the final objective of Yoga practice forhealthy living.7. Meditation53Meditation acts as a powerful tonic. It is a mental andnerving tonic as well. The holy vibrations penetrate all the cells ofthe body and cure the diseases of the body. Those who meditatesave doctor’s bills. The powerful, soothing waves that arise duringmeditaion exercise a benign influence on the mind, nerves, organsand the cells of body. The divine energy freely flows likeTailadhara (flows of oil from one vessel to another) from the feetof the Lord to the different systems of the Sadhakas.Considerable changes take place in the mind, brain and thenervous system by the practice of meditation. New nerve-currents,new vibrations, new avenues, new grooves, new cells, newchannels are formed. The whole mind and nervous system areremodeled. You will develop a new heart, a new view of mind,new sensations, new feeling, new mode of thinking, acting and aview of the universe (as God in manifestation). The fire ofmeditation annihilates all foulness due to vice. Then suddenlycomes knowledge or divine wisdom, which directly leads to finalemancipation.Real peace and Ananda (bliss) manifest only whenSankalpas get extinguished. When you fix the mind on thesupreme energy even for five minutes Sattva guna is infused intothe mind. Vasanas (impression) are thinned out and the force ofsankalpa become less and less.You will feel peace and bliss during the five minutes. Youcan compare this Ananda from meditation with the transitory54sensual pleasures. You will find that this Ananda from meditationis a million times superior to sensual pleasure. Meditate and feelthis Ananda. Then you will know its real value. You will get thefull Ananda of the divine glory only when you merge deep intosilent meditation. When you are on the border land of divinity of

God, when you are at threshold of God, when you are in the outerskirts, you will not get the maximum peace and bliss.8. SamadhiSamadhi is provided to super normal healthy person.

Role of Asanas, Pranayam & Meditation incommon diseasesAnaemiaPranayamaUjjayi (energy-renewing Pranayama), Nadi-Sodhana(altenate breathing).AsanasPaschimottanasans (stretching the back and legs),Ardhamatsyendrasana (Simplified version of the Yogi MatsyendraPosture), Sarvangasana (Shoulder-stand), Sirshasana (Head-stand),Savasana (Complete Relaxation Posture).55DietChange over to foods rich in iron and Vitamin-B juice ofwheat sprouts(grass), uncooked Juices or soups of leafy vegetables,fresh fruits, germinated corn and beans, pulses etc.ArthritisPranayamaRhythmic breathing, Nadi-Sodhana(alternate breathing).AsanasTrikonasna (triangle posture), Padmasana (The lotusPosition), Salabhasana (The Locust Posture), Dhanurasana (TheBow Posture), Vakrasana (Spinal Twist), Viparitakarani (TheInverted posture), Savasana (Complete Relaxation Posture).DietAvoid sours and masala food. Eat light vegetable foods.Take alkaline content fruits like sweet lemon and orange,pineapple etc.MeditationSilent meditation for 20 minutes.AsthmaPranayamaRhythmic breathing, Nadi-Sodhana (alternate breathingwithout retention of the breath).56AsanasVakrasana (Spinal Twist), Paschimottanasans (stretchingthe back and legs), Viparitakarani (The Inverted posture), Savasana(Complete Relaxation Posture).DietAvoid milk and milk product, non vegetarian food, eatfruits and vegetables in season and cooked rather than rawvegetables.MeditationSilent Meditation for 15-30 minutes.Constipation

PranayamaBhastrika(bellows)AsanasUddiyana (Rising of the diapharm), Trikonasana( triangleposture), Vakrasana (spinal twist), Paschimottanasans (stretchingthe back and legs), Sarvangasana ( shoulder- stand), Supta-Vajrasana ( The Supine Pelvic Posture).Diet- Include food with flares and roughage in daily diet. Plenty ofraw vegetable, fruits, whole wheat chapaties etc. should be taken.57DiabetesPranayamaRhythmic breathing, Nadi-Sodhana(alternate breathingwithout retention of the breath).AsanasUddiyana (Rising of the diapharm), Paschimottanasans(stretching the back and legs), Ardhamatsyendrasana (Simplifiedversion of the Yogi Matsyendra Posture), Sarvangasana ( shoulderstand),Savasana (Complete Relaxation Posture).DietAvoid starchy food, eat more fibbers and protein contentfood, restrictions should be followed.ExhaustionPranayamaRhythmic breathing, Nadi-Sodhana (alternate breathingwithout retention of the breath).AsanasHalasana (The Plough posture), Vakrasana (spinal twist),Paschimottanasans (stretching the back and legs), Sarvangasana(shoulder- stand), Matasyasana (The fish posture), Sirshasana(Head- stand), Savasana( Complete Relaxation Posture)58HaemorroidsPranayamaRhythmic breathing, that revitalizes the nervous system.AsanasUddiyana (Rising of the diapharm), Viparitakarni (TheInverted Posture), Sarvangasana(shoulder-stand), Matsyasanas(The fish posture), Shirsasana (Head-stand), Savasana (CompleteRelaxation Posture).DietOnly light easily digestable food with plenty of fiborousmaterials should be taken.HeadachesPranayamaRhythmic breathing, Nadi-Sodhana (alternate breathing).AsanasViparitakarani (The Inverted posture), Savasana (CompleteRelaxation Posture).Diet

Easily digestable food.Heart TroublePranayamaRhythmic breathing, Nadi-Sodhana (alternate breathing).59AsanasDepending on the case Uddiyana (Rising of the Diapharm),Trikonasana (Triangle Posture), Sirshasana (Head-stand), Savasna(Complete Relaxation Posture).DietAvoid foods containing fats and cholesterol. Eat morevegetable and fruits. Take light vegetarian meals.MeditationSilent meditation for 20-30 minutes.High blood pressurePranayamaRhythmic breathing, nadi-sodhna (alternate breathing,without retention of the breath).AsanasPadmasana (the lotus position), viparitakarani (the invertedposture), savasana (complete relaxation posture).DietConsume less salt and fat. Eat 10 vegetables more.MeditationSilent meditation for 20 minutes.60IndigestionPranayamaBhastrika (Bellows), Nadi-Sodhana (alternate breathing).AsanasUddiyana (Raising of diapharm), Bhujangasana (The CobraPosition), Salabhasana (The Posture), Salabhasana (The LocustPosture), Dhanurasana (The Bow Posture) Trikonasana (TrianglePosture), Pachimottanasana (Stretching the back and legs),Sarvangasana (Shoulder-stand), Savasana (Complete RelaxationPosture).DietInclude food with flares and roughage in daily diet. Plenty ofraw vegetable, fruit whole-wheat chapaties etc. should be take.Liver AilmentsPranayamaRhythmic breathing, Nadi-Sodhana (alternate breathing).Asanas Uddiyana (Raising of diaphram), Baddha Konasana(Yoga-Mundra, feet jointed), Mayurasana (The Peacock Posture),Pachimottanasana (Stretching the back and legs), Vipritakarani(The Inverted Posture), Savasana (Complete Relaxation Posture).DietTake liquid diet for a period and gradually change over toour usual. Eliminate fatty food and alcohol from diet.61

Low Blood PressurePranayamaRhythmic breathing, Bhastrika (Bellows).AsanasSiddhasana (Posture of the Ac), Halasana (The PloughPosture), Pachimottasana (Stretching the back and legs ),Sarvangasana (Shoulder-stand), Sirshasana (Head-stand), Savasana(Complete Relaxation Posture).Obesity or OverweightPranayamaBhastrika (Bellows), Ujjayi (energy-renewing Pranayama),Kapala bhati (breathing that revitalizes the body).AsanasUddiyana (Raising of the disphram), Pachimottanasana(Stretching the back and legs), Trikonasana (Triangle Posture),Vakrasna (Spinal Twist), Sarvangasans (Shoulder-stand),Sirshasana (Head-stand), Dhanurasana (The Bow Posture).DietRestriction in diet are unavoidable, if reduction in weight isdesired. Reduce drastically the in take of foods containing highproportion of carbohydrate and raw vegetables should form amajor part of daily diet.62Sinus TroublePranayamaNadi- Sodhana (alternate breathing), Surya Bhedana.AsanasViparitakarni (The Inverted Posture), Savasana (CompleteRelaxation Posture).TuberculosisPranayamaRhythmic breathing, Nadi-Sodhana (alternative breathing).AsanasViparitakarani (The inverted Posture), Sarvangasans(Shoulder-stand), Sirshasana (Head-stand), Savasana (CompleteRelaxation Posture).DietTake rich protein diet.MeditationSilent meditation for 15-30 minutes.63AnxietyPranayamaKapalabhati (breathing and revives the body), Nadi-Sodhana (alternative breathing). Kumbhaka (retention of thebreath).AsanasSuptavajrasana (The Supine Pelvie Posture), Ardha-Matsyendrasana (Simplified version of the Yogi MatsyendraPosture), Trikonasana (Triangle Posture), Dhanurasana (The Bow

Posture), Sarvangasana (Shoulder-stand), Savasana (CompleteRelaxation Posture).MeditationJapa, Ajapa silent meditation for 15-30 minutes.DepressionPranayamaRhythmic breathing, Surya-Bhedana (breathing thatrevitalizes the nervous system), Bhastrika (Bellows).AsanasVakrasans (Spinal Twist), Bhujangasana (The CobraPosition), Salabhasana (The Locust Posture), Halasana (ThePlough Posture), Vakrasana (Spinal Twist), Paschimottanasana(Stretching the back and legs), Sarvangasana (Shoulder-stand),Savasana (Complete Relaxation Posture).64MeditationSilent meditation for 15-20 minutes and antara mouna.FatiguePranayamaRhythmic breathing, Nadi-Sodhana (alternative breathing),Ujjayi (energy-renewing Pranayama).AsanasHalasana (The Plough Posture), Paschimottanasana(Stretching the back and legs), Ardha Matsyendrasans (Simplifiedversion of the Yogi Matsyendra Posture), Sarvangasana (Shoulderstand), Matsyasana (The fish posture), Sirshasana (Head-stand)Savasana (Complete Relaxation Posture).MeditationSilent meditation for 15-30 minutes.NervousnessPranayamaRhythmic breathing, Nadi-Sodhana (alternative breathing).AsanasYoga-Mudra (The Symbol of Yoga), Vakrasana (SpinalTwist), Salabhasana (The locust Posture), Halasana (The PloughPosture), Mayurasana (The Peacock Posture), Viparitakarni (TheInverted Posture), Savasana (Complete Relaxation Posture).65MeditationSilent meditation for 15-30 minutes.FrustrationPranayamaRhythmic breathing, Nadi-Sodhana (alternative breathing),breathing that purifies.AsanasBaddha Konasana (Yoga-Mudra, feet jointed), Halasana(The Plough Posture), Vakrasana (Spinal Twist), Sarvangasana,Savasana (Complete Relaxation Posture).Note: Above is a short list of various Pranayama, Meditation andAsana exercises corresponding to different disorders and illnesses,

both functional and organic. It is absolutely essential to ensure theguidance of a properly trained and experienced expert, able toadapt these exercises, based on long experience of Yoga, to theneeds of the individual.

Naturopathic techniques for healthy livingNaturopathy is a unique therapeutic system where thenatural measures and sources are employed to keep a person haleand hearty. The basic concept of naturopathy is that a man is anintegral component of nature and he is made up of five basic66elements earth, water, fire, ether and air. In a state of imbalance ofthese elements the morbid matters start accumulating in the bodyand a person turns sick. Under naturopathy mud, water, air steam,sun-rays are employed to treat a patient.Under naturopathy body’s in built power or immunity istoned-up to reconstitute healthy living through followingtechnique:-1. Food and nutritionFor an ideal life style balanced diet plays a vital role. As weknow there are four major aspects of health; physical, mental,social and spiritual. All these major aspects must be built-up forachieving an ideal health. The purpose of food is not to satisfy thehunger or the taste of tongue. Instead of this the purpose of dietmust be to offer nutrition to body along with toning-up the mentalspiritual health. This is significant since the body mind and theinner conscience all the three are the strong pillars of health. Untilall the three are healthy one can not term it as a complete health.In the ancient Indian literature the food has been classifiedunder three major categories, Sattvic, Rajsic and Tamasic. It ismentioned that those who desire for a good physical, mental andspiritual health, they must go for sattvic diet. Those who look forthe two aspects of health i.e. physical and mental only, they mustopt for Rajsik diet. With pure food mental rejuvenation is ensured,67it means that it helps to control body’s functional components i.e.Indryas. Further, pure food helps to generate mental concentration.The most suitable food is that which offers vitality to the body,reduces destructive forces, provides desired body temperature,must be digestable, non-stimulant and promotes memory,longevity strength, courage, mercy and co-operation.All type of synthetic and confectionery food products, salt,alcoholic drinks, meat products, hydro peroxides used for foodprocessing, plastic wares, pesticides. Chemical fertilizers and food,cosmetics, toilet products and various chemicals which come underthe direct contact with the body may cause diseases on prolongeduse.The sprouted food and fresh eatables carry with them ahigher percentage of enzymes, vitamins and essential minerals.Enzymes play a vital role in the biological process of digestivesystem. Moreover, it helps in providing essential portions for theregeneration of body cells, enzymes and also purifies the vitalbody fluid; blood. The cooked food entirely lacks the enzymes; as

a result the body runs into enzymes deficiency. Enzymes are thekey factor for health and longevity. Enzymes are presentessentially in the sprouted and uncooked food material.Life promoting food includes fresh unripe fruits, freshgreen vegetables, sprouted cereals, wheat aqueous extract; milkyJuice of sprouted seeds etc. Such biologically live food stuffs,contain high quality and partially digested carbohydrates, dextrose,68sucrose lactobacilli, Saccharomyces proteins, fat, Vitamin-A,thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pyridoxine, B-12 biotin, pantothenicacid, folic acid, choline, inosital, Para amino benzoic acid vitamin-A, B, C, D, E, K, G, L, M and W all sorts of vitamins, calcium,phosphorus, Sulphur, Sodium, Magnesium, Chlorine, Iron,Manganese, Copper, Iodine, Zinc, Chromium, Molybdenum,Boron, Cadmium, silicon etc. Such major mineral elements andthose enzymes which participate in biological reactions, forcombating physical and mental disorders and for maintenance ofnormal health.Life supporting food items carry clinical importance infighting against common ailments. Leading scientists related toBionutrition such as Dr. Vigmor and other Biochemists haveinvestigated the role of micro-nutrition for the management ofvarious chronic disorders such as cancer, eczema, intestinaldisorders, paralysis, arthritis, anemia, asthma, psoriasis, posrosisetc. With this it may be inferred that food of biological originespecially vegetable, non-cooked or sprouted cereals may built upthe deteriorating physical and mental health of entire world. Thismay not be possible with other expensive therapies.All types of fast food lack vital elements eg. Vitamin A, B,C, E, Calcium, Phosphorus and Iron. Due to the deficiency of theessential nutrients the persons who consume the fast food, turnhighly irritable, pain in their calf muscles hand and feet,breathlessness, lack of concentration, heart and kidney disorders,69lack of interest in studies, body imbalance, indigestion etc. severalsuch clinical symptoms. Due to the presence of excess salt, sugarand several synthetic chemicals the fast food turn extremelypoisonous and toxic. As a result the symptoms of liver, kidneydisorders, hypertension and diabetes start appearing.2. Hydrotherapy1) Steam bathMild steam bath is extremely useful for various ailments,such as joint disorders, respiratory problems, oedema, asthma,obesity, apart from this it relieves liver disorders, hysteria,nephritis and prevents kidney failure.2) Neutral- full tub immersion bathUnder massage during full immersion tub bath stimulatesthe functional activity of kidney and lungs which stimulates body’simmunity. It relieves blood circulatory problems. More over ittones up the mental capacity and heart’s strength.3) Hot full tub immersion bathIt stimulates excretion of toxic wastes including uria, uria

acid, ammonia, amino acid etc. It relives serious clinical problemssuch as ascites, oedema, respiratory congestion, pneumoniasciatica, arthritis, psoriasis, cystitis etc.704) Sauna bathThe special feature of sauna bath is the use of hot and dryflow of air over the body. Due to this the blood capillaries getdilated and their oxygen retention capacity increases. Due to thehyper-thermic effect the melanin cells get activated.5) HipbathIt suits to relieve constipation, indigestion, prostrate gland’sdisorders, ulcer, insomnia, anemia etc.6) Hot hipbathIt is useful to relieve inflammation of colon, urinarybladder, uterus prostate gland neuralgia, sciatica and spondilitis.7. Spinal bathCold spinal bath acts as nervine tonic and general tonic. Ittones- up the entire spinal nervous system.8) Hot-cold fermentationDifferent body parts are sequentially exposed to hot andcold treatment. Thus employing various techniques of hydrotherapyit is possible to prevent various ailments, keep healthy andthus avail an ideal healthy life.3. Chromothrerapy/HeliotherapySun is the Atman of world. Sun controls the biologicalclock. The sun rays are indispensable not only for conservation ofhealth but also for maintaining a healthy daily routine.71The infra rays exert the temperature regulation effect.Where as the ultra violet rays exert the physio-chemical andphysio-biological effect and thus regulate the blood pressure.When sun rays belong to 0.4μ to 0.65μ wave length they turnuseful to mankind, as during sunrise, where it tones up bloodvessels. Such rays divert the blood flow towards skin and thusnourishes it. This activates the sensory nervous system, expandsthe constricted cells, regulates the peripheral resistance and thuslowers blood pressure. The sun rays of low density, as duringmorning and evening stimulates melamine formation and controlsthe synthesis.4. Airings or ‘Air bathing’This means that once every so often one removes theclothing, allowing the pores to breath freely. This is extremelygood for the body and improves the exterior tone of thenurovegetative system so that the body develops a wonderfulpower of resistance.5. FastingFasting for one day in even ten or twelve days, even one isin good health, purifies the body and thus can prevent the inceptionof diseases.72

References

1. Dr. Singh S.J., Chromotherapy.2. Dr. Singh S.J., Naturopathy.3. J. Chandra, Prakriticayur Vigyan.4. Gore M.M., Anatomy & physiology of Yogic Practice,Kanchan Publication lonavala, Pune, India.5. N.Kumar, Rogo Ki Sahi Chikitsa.6. N. Kumar, Prakritic Chikitsa Avam Yoga: VaigyanicPrayog.7. Chopra Dr. Deepak, Perfect Health, Bantam BookPublisher, New York, 1989.8. Creating Health, Boston, Houghton Mifflin Company,1987.9. Bagchi B.K. and Wender N.A., ElectrophysiologicalCorrelates of some Yogic Exercises,Electroencephalography and Neurophysiology, 1957.10. Hewitt James, The complete book of Yoga, RiderPublication.11. Pranayam, V.K.S. Iyengar.12. Dutta S. Ray, Yogic Exercises, (Physiology and PsychicProcesses)13. Bakhru H.K., Hand Book of Nature cure.14. Marwah. B.S., Health and Efficiency through Yogasanas,Army Educational Publicaton, New Delhi, 1965.7315. Rawls, E.S., A Hand book of Yoga for Modern living,Parker wast Nyak, N.Y., 1966.16. Singh. Pancham, Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Lalit Mohan Basu,the Panini Office, Allahabad ,1915.17. Acharya, Pundit, Breath is life, Prana Press, New Delhi,1939.18. Sir Ananda, The complete Book of Yoga Harmony of Body& Mind Orient Paperback, New Delhi.19. Gupta, Yogi, Yoga and Long, life, Dodd mead Toronto,1958.20. Carrington P, and Ephron S: Meditation as on adjured ofPsychotherapy. In “New Dimensions in Psychiatry” EdArieti. S and Chrzanowski G Wiley IntersciencePublication, New York, 1975.74

Chapter-5Outcome of spirituality : vasudhaivakutumbakamFundamentals of SpiritualityWe are not living in isolated compartments the world hasbecome one family. In a society plagued with domestic andcommunal violence, we need to globalize wisdom. Though wehave advanced technologically, we have cared very little for theemotional and spiritual needs of people. A sense of belongingnesswith the whole world-rising above the narrow considerations ofcolor, culture or back ground, is the need of the hour. We need to

look back and learn from the mistakes of the past, we need tounderstand what is lacking in society and how we can nurture thehuman values without which his earth cannot be sustained.Once the spinning impact of west becomes weak, there isbound to be a more helpful and harmonious process of mutual giveand take. And that will be for the benefit of all. But for this tohappen, India will have to intervene with his powerful spiritualinfluence and his characteristic integral philosophy and way of life.That alone will help resolve the conflicts of the present situationand reconcile the seeming contradictions in a harmonious and75holistic vision. That is the role which India is declined to play inthe new millennium.Mere listening to spiritual discourses is not enough. Oneshould always sit back and reflect on what had been said toactually benefit from them. It is said, "one hour of reflection isequal to seventy years of pious worship. It is only when weintrospect about good things that we try to imbibe them in out life.Listening to the best of things without reflecting back on them hasonly superficial affects, By reflection, one can realize the depth ofthe issue and its meaning.Janism says that the dharma is made up of "Non-violence,Self control and austerity."i Positive emotions bring pleasure andnegative emotions make life miserable. Non-violence is the heartof Jainism. All worldly problems can be solved by keeping nonviolencein center. We can protect environment (i,e earth, water,fire, air, vegetables and small creatures) by reducing our day to dayrequirement by reducing our greed. We should meet on injusticenot with the force but with forbearance, Violence begets violence,emity leads to Emity. There is nothing in the world or even outof it that can be called good except the principle of nonviolenceof all living beings. The root course of violence ismaterial goods. The virtue of non-violence and Aparigraha arecapable of establishing universal peace. Anand (bliss) isexperienced by the sage who is free from all desires. Gita tells usthat the actions should be performed after brushing aside all76attachment and the desire for the fruit. The highest aim of humanlife is to attain eternal bliss. All the conduct should be such aswould bring us the maximum of happiness and remove miseriesfrom our lives.Religion is the banana skin and spirituality is thebanana. The misery in the world is because we through away thebanana and are holding on to the skin.ii Knowledge and spiritualawareness should go hand in hand win social and political systems.Religious leaders, political leaders, business establishments andsocial workers should get together and spread the message ofunity. All religions and traditions have a common value system.These shared values have to reach every corner of the world. Evenif one pocket of the world remains ignorant of these values, theworld will not be a safe place.Sit a while in solitude, meditate, reflect on your thoughts,

actions, your immediate environment the world around us. Thinkover and over again, introspect, and we will here that inner voice,God's voice, cleanse our soul always. Never let dust or dirt settleon it and distort our vision. Keep it bright and Shining. The heartis God's treasury. Keep it pure and radiant. Let our thought bepure, let our whole life be pure. It is also vary necessary to teachour children about the importance of purity of life. Moraleducation is a must today. Young children have impressionableminds and we should try to develop a spiritual outlook in them77from a very young age. We should help them inculcate good valuesand thoughts.Religion comes from the Latin word religate, which means"to bind". Thus, the rule of religion is to bind, to unite. Religion isa unifying force that which unites man to man. Religion simplybinds us by commands so that we may no degenerate in miserybodily,mentally or spiritually. We ought to be sensitive to thecause of the society and humanity. We must involve ourselves inthe activities of the society and try to reform it from within asmuch as we can. We should not shut out eyes to the crimes takingplace in the society.We are about to enter a new era, which will see the dawn ofa new divine civilization on earth. Let us now try not to divide thepeople into smaller sects or sections but unite them to accept onereligion, one God and one humanity. Remember, we are not anintegral part of God. All religions emphasize moral and spiritualvalues of love, mercy, compassion, forgiveness and good conduct.

Fundamentals of Vasudhaiva KutumbakamVasudhaiva Kutumbakam is essential a cultural andspiritual concept. It looks upon the whole world us one's ownfamily. Love and harmony, co-operation and mutual support arethe basic ingredients here, as in a family. Naturally the idea ofexploitation is alien. Individual and collective interests arecomplimentary to each other. Unlimited consumerism is ruled out,78because every one has to be provided with the necessities-the cakehas to he shared more or less equally.According to Vedic traditions God has gifted intelligence toman. Let us make full use of this intelligence in uniting themankind. The earth is the garden of God. Let us not spoil it. Letus not annoy God by destroying what he had built with love. Thebest thing is to begin with children. Let us sow the seed of love inthem and not to say or do anything that would create feelings ofhatred in them. Why say this country is mine, that country isyours? Why not say the entire universe is mine and thine? Are wenot foolish for fighting each other in the name of religion ornationality. When the entire universe is ours and the Almighty Godis one. There is hardly any sense in fighting each other anddestroying God's creations. It is not painful? Think over it. TheIndian sages and seers propounded the gospel truth "VasudhaivaKutumbakam". Let us Vow to follow this divine teachings andconsider ourselves as the citizen of the world. We need unity to

build a new one world country.The concept of human unity is very old. Indian seers hadunequivocally proclaimed that not only humans but the entirecreation is one single family. For those who have a refined andgenerous outlook, the whole world is just one family.iiiThe joint family system of Indian is an example of unity indiversity. In mast Indian homes it is normal to see a family livingtogether with the grand parents. They are of different age, yet they79are all united and happy. All this is due to the great teachings ofour religion. Hinduism believe in universal unity and happiness.As one of its prayer says, "May all be happy."iv That is why somereligions, so may races live in unity in diversity in peaceful coexistencein India. The Hindu system of varnashram dharma andthe four Purushartha reinforce unity as well. They are meant for theproper development of society. Shri Krishna himself made itclear in Bhagavad Gita that a person's action determines hiscaste. The message of Bhagavad Gita is addressed to all menwithout distinction. The famous law of karma and rebirth, theconcept of immortalality of the soul give hope and light, peace andsolace to people of all castes, creeds and religions. It is considereda universal gospel.Peace and harmony in the world will come throughbrotherhood and love. With true enlightenment a person risesabove the level of boundaries of race, religion, language or nation.Unless our mental horizon and perception is broad we cannotachieve success in life. Due to our ignorance we are trying toestablish the superiority of our own race and religion. The cause oftoday's dangerous situation is the ignorance of mankind . It is byunderstanding the spirit of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" thatworld peace can be ushered in this world. Today the world is onthe verge of total destruction. Every country in the world, in thename of peace and self defence, has accumulated weapons of massdestruction. But through such weapons peace cannot come in this80world. In this dangerous situation respect for all religions and"Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" can usher peace in this world.India is land where ideal of unity in diversity has existedfor long. A variety of religions like Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism,Sikkhism, Islam and Christianity flourish there. The Hindu religionitself is made of many creeds like Vaishnavism, Shaivism andShaktism. This clearly give us an idea of unity in diversity existingin the heart of Hindu religion. India is a world in itself for itsdiversity.

Outcome of Spirituality : VasudhaivaKutumbakamThe aim of life should be to realize God and follow histeachings. We should think twice before we act so that our actionsdo not cause miseries to others. Let us dedicate the rest of our lifein the service of God. The best service to God is service to society.Let us turn our own self-interest into public interest. Selflessactions are the actual prayers to God. Hatred in society has

caused immense harm to the society. Worship is that whichinspires us to perform a good deed, worship is that activity whichmakes other happy. Worship is that which provides succour to theneedy.Renouncing selfish desire is the highest state ofrenunciation. When such divine state is achieved one dedicates81oneself to the service of mankind. Only a selfless person isworthy of leading the mankind. A selfless person belongs to noparticular nation, religion or culture. Such a selfless person is acitizen of the world. Let us follow selfless person for achieving oneworld dream.The basic teachings of all religion are same. Prophets of allreligions have stressed upon the need of knowing and realizingGod by following his teachings. Vedas say, for wise people, theentire humanity is but one family. Ramayana preaches God ispresent in all human beings. The Gita teaches, "Be involved inthe good of all humanity". According to Jainism "Do notindulge mind, body and speech in the evil of all othercreatures." According to Islam, " O God! give prosperity to allhumanity." According to Guru Granth Saheb, "All humanity hassprung from light of one source i.e. God. Who is big, who is small?i.e. all are equal. Bible teachers, "Love they neighbor and theworld is but family. All religions give the same divine message ofunity of God. All schools should, therefore, teach children tofollow the teaching of all prophets. From the first day in school,a child should learn that God is one, religion is one, humanityis one.The simple truth is that every one of us belongs to thisuniverse and the universe belongs to us. The all human beings aresmall part of this great universe. Then why this disunity, why thismutual hatred. Why this mutual suspicion? According to Vedic82philosophy, "God conveyed his message through his messengersthat we are all his own creation. Does this message not enjoin us tolive in unity, peace and harmony? We all are equal in his eyes.Why should we then create differences and manipulate things toact against God's design? The time has arrived when we shouldcome close to each other for realizing the one world dream.v

ConclusionEvery creature of globe wants to live and no body likesto die. Therefore no one has any right to destroy or harm anyother living being. Jain ethics believes non-violence meansuniversal truth. There is only one caste namely manhood.vi

Jainism teaches us "Attainment of total freedom from the cycle ofbirth, life, pain, misery, death and achieving the blissful state ofone's pure self, unity, tolerance, non-violence, truthfulness,chastity. Complete detachment from people, places and materialthings. Lord mahavira's teachings are to highlight the importanceof practicing unity, non-violence and giving up anger, egoism,deception, greed and similar vices to be able to attain salvation.There are countless persons or organizations in the world

who advocate world peace and world unity. Our forefathers weregreat visionaries for advocating world peace and world unity.Therefore, they incorporate article 51 in the constitution of India toenjoin the Government to work for the unity of mankind in thespirit of our ancient belief of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. Taking83a cue from this article of the constitution of India we should try tobuild a global opinion for formation of a World Parliament andWorld Government, so that the entire world become one countryand the mankind its citizens. All wars will come to an end whenthe World Government is framed. The existing stockpile of nuclearweapons will be destroyed by the World Government thus formed.A new era of everlasting peace will then prevail on earth, usheringin a new era of everlasting peace will then prevail on earth,ushering in a new civilization. Come, let us all join in this WorldGovernment movement. Humanity will forever remember India forbequeathing to it the ideal of Vasudhiva Kutumbakam.

References1. Dasavaikalika, 1.1, Dhammo mamgala mukkitham ahimsasamjamo tavo.2. Sri Sri Ravisanker—www.vasudhaivakutumbakam.com.3. Udara charitanam tu vasudhaiva kutumbakam.4. Sarve bhavantu sukhinah : sarve bhavantu niramaya.5. www.jagdishgandhi.org, p. 4-13.6. Adipurana 38.45, Manusyajatirekaiva.84

Chapter-6Formation of secraments in girls throughPrekshadhyan YogaNeed for the formation of sacramentsIndian philosophy and the philosophies other than theIndian one have expatiated the word "sacraments" or habits in theirown way. Considering from a broader point of view, formation ofgood habits, or bringing about refinement and purification meansinculcation of human virtues in man. All the philosophies andideologies agree to this definition. The present age is an age ofscience and of materialism. By making new discoveries in all thefields of life, science has made life extremely comfortable andconvenient.The quest for convenience has given birth to materialism.Presently, materialism is at its highest level and the whole world isdazzled by it. No doubt there has been a great development in thewhole world but the fact that there has been a great deterioration invalues which cannot be denied. The fact most alarming is that thegreatest deterioration has been there in human values. We see thathuman values like the feeling of friendship, compassion,brotherhood, sensitivity, morality, forbearance, renunciation,honesty, simplicity and positive thinking etc. are nowhere to befound. That is why human qualities like—terrorism, immorality,85

insensitivity, selfishness, corruption, cruelty, dishonesty, distrust,stress, negative thinking, resentment and absence of peace etc. areprevailing everywhere. The ones who are still clinging to the goodhuman values, are feeling suffocated. Hence a great need for theformation of sacraments, for bringing about refinement and for thedevelopment of human values is being acutely felt. Good habits areimportant for and useful to each and everybody, but here we areparticularly concerned about the need for and utility of formingsacraments in girls. We will try to throw light on the ways and theexperiments by which this purification may be brought about. Manis the smallest unit of world peace. Acharya Tulsi has rightlysaid—Sudhre vyakti, samaj vyakti se!Rastra svayam sudhrega!!First of all there should be improvement in an individual. If theindividuals are improved, society will improve, as society isnothing else but a group of individuals. And if society is improved,nation will improve automatically.In order to bring about and establish peace in the world, we willhave to think of the ways of improving man, the smallest unit. Inthis regard, it has been aptly said—Apna sudhar sansar ki sabse badi seva hainImproving oneself is the greatest service to world. If every personbrings about a change in himself, improves himself, the world willbe automatically changed and improved. By improving oneself,86one can render the greatest service to the world. The first thingrequired for improving the world is to make man a 'good man'.All the great thinkers of the world are emphasizing the fact thatwithout the restoration of human values, there can be no happinessand prosperity in the world. Today, things have changedimmensely. Globalization has reduced the whole world to the levelof a small village. A village being very small, anything happeningin it, immediately comes to the knowledge of each and everybodyliving in it.In the same way because of the great revolution in the fieldof Information and Technology, anything that happens in theremotest corner of the world, immediately spreads all over theworld through T.V. I.S.D, internet, e-mail and mobile. This ishuman weakness that a person grasps evil earlier than he graspsgood. We will have to arouse awareness for human values; we willhave to attract man to goodness.Man, by instinct, is drawn to evil. In order to restore humanvalues, we will have to start a campaign for the formation of goodhabits. The need for bringing about refinement and purification inman with the help of experiments and training is being felt all overthe world. Such a refined person can bring about refinement inothers as well. Thus the number of the people refined in this waywill go on increasing and their ratio will also increase.87

Utility of the formation of sacraments in girlsA Girl is a seed; a mother is a tree and a grandmother is a banyan

tree. The quality and form of a tree depends on the seed. If thequality of seed is improved, the quality of the tree willautomatically be improved. The life of a girl is like a plain paper.We can write and imprint on it whatever we like. Childhood is thebest period for the formation of good habits. Habits acquired inchildhood persist for the whole life.A girl puts two families in proper order. Before marriage,she takes care of the household of her parents and after marriage;she manages and looks after the household of her in-laws. A girltoday is the mother of tomorrow. If a girl has developed andinculcated good values and habits, she will remain refined andcultured even when she becomes a mother. Mother is the firstschool of a child. A child gets all his sacraments and characteristicsfrom his mother.According to Ayurveda, a child gets his body's tender partslike brain, blood and heart from his mother's blood andmenstruation and hard parts like bones, hair and nails from thesperms of his father. During pregnancy the child feeds on hismother's blood and the food that she takes. When he is born, themother rears him up. Women are the embodiments of affection,compassion, devotion and tenderness. They are said to be theornaments and dignity of the family. They play on important role88in establishing men's households. A mother can rear up tenchildren but without her a man cannot properly rear up even onechild. Affection dwells in the heart of a mother. Man's life isincomplete without woman. Man and woman are the two wheels ofthe chariot of household. Woman is an embodiment of love andaffection but she can be as brave as goddess Durga and Laxmi Bai,the queen of Jhansi if an occasion arises. In the present day world,women are proving themselves superior to men in every field oflife—politics, administration, business, science,telecommunication, education and medical science.The background of a woman is a girl. A woman is initiallya girl. Hence to form good habits in her is very important. If a girlis not refined and cultured in early childhood, she presents a veryugly picture when she grows up into a woman. The whole societyis stained and we have to bow our heads with shame when webehold the ugly form of a woman. Women not having good valuesare responsible to a great extent for the increasing corruption insociety. A refined woman is the basis, the backbone of societywhereas an unrefined woman brings only wastage and destructionin life. If we want to remove corruption, we will have to give goodsacraments to our children; we will have to make them realize theimportance of values. You may think from any point of view, but ifwe want a good and decent society, we will have to give goodhabits to girls specially.89

The ways of forming sacramentsOur habits of today form our fortune (karma) of tomorrow.The habits earned previously are our fortune (karmas) of today. InJain philosophy, apprehension, speculation, perceptional judgment

and retention have been said to the means of gaining knowledge.Retention means storing our sacraments. Sacraments may rise inour present birth and they may rise in our future births also.What are sacraments? Sacraments are the deeds done by us.The sacraments that have been accumulated for thousands of yearsmay rise now in the present. In the same way, sacraments acquiredtoday may rise even after thousands of years. According to thekarmic theory of Jain philosophy, the condition of karmas dependson the stages of bondage like duration, fruition, quantity and natureetc. Mind, body and speech are the parts of our attitudes. Similarly,body, senses, mind, prudence and emotions are the parts of out life.For the formation of habits we will have to go to the subtleworld, to the sub-conscious mind. Transformation takes place inthe sub-conscious mind. According to Frayed the famouspsychologist, there are three levels of mind (1) conscious mind (2)sub-conscious mind and (3) unconscious mind. Conscious mindworks at the level of brain. Imagining, thinking and memory arethe functions of the conscious mind. It is the controller of all theactivities of out gross body. Senses receives the subjects fromoutside and carry them to the conscious mind. It is the controller of90all the activities of our gross body. Senses receives the subjectsfrom outside and carry them to the conscious mind. This consciousmind pertains to all the three periods—present, past and future. Allthe function of the material world is controlled by conscious mind.Body and speech too are controlled by it. Now we come fromgross body to subtle body. After coming in contact with the grossbody, we come to the subtle-Tejus-body. This Tejus body is knownas electric, etheric or astral body. Vitality is controlled by Tejusbody. All the wonderful acts of vitality are performed throughTejus body. The parts of Tejus body are aura and volitions.Sub-conscious mind is related to Tejus body. There is noreach of words there; it is a world of vibrations. Transformationbegins to take place when something enters sub-conscious mind.We are transformed if we manage to carry our emotions to subconsciousmind through contemplation. In order to form goodhabits in girls, we will have to carry them to their sub-consciousminds through relaxation, meditation and contemplation.These habits are permanently fixed there. A thing, oncereceived by sub-conscious mind, can never be forgotten. A personmay be transformed as we like by putting the feelings in the subconsciousmind again and again. If human values are carried againand again through contemplation to the sub-conscious minds ofgirls, they may be moulded as we wish them to be moulded.Now let us proceed even beyond sub-conscious mind. Thesubtlest body is the karmic body that is mixed with our soul in the91same way as milk and sugar-candy are mixed together. There arevibrations in soul. There are vibrations in karmic body also.Connected with our karmic body is our unconscious mind. All oursacraments are stored there as goods are stored in a godown andare exposed when they get a chance of rising. Unconscious mind

is our ware-house in which all our auspicious and inauspicioushabits of many lives are stored. Our desires, that are notfulfilled, are all stored in our unconscious mind. The Tejusbody, that is coming in contact with the gross body, is bringing theraw-material from the ware-house of unconscious mind. AsAcharya Mahapragyaji says, we should try to understand theprocess of refinement and then refine and purify our karmas.

The practical aspect of the formation ofsacramentsIn order to provide permanence to habits, practice and training arerequired. Families will be refined when girls are refined. It is a girlwho acquires the status of a mother when she grows up. Mother isthe first school of a child. A child gets most of his sacraments fromhis mother. Although each and everybody should inculcate goodhabits and honour values, yet forming good habits in girls will beall the more fruitful. In my opinion, Preksha meditation is the bestmeans of forming good habits. Good habits can be developed ingirls by means of practice and training in Preksha meditation. Here92I am presenting the practical forms of the eight steps of Prekshameditation and their advantages :1. RelaxationIn this method, the body is relaxed. One forgets the existence ofbody even when it is there. Every limb of the body is relaxed anddistressed by auto-suggestions. One feels that every part of thebody is relaxed and distressed. One feels very light. When wereach this stage we forget the existence of our body though it isthere. May people go to such depths during relaxation that theirTejus (astral) body comes out of the gross body and travels to faroffplaces. The great advantage of this practice is that we come toknow the science of differentiation. We feel that soul is differentfrom body. This science of differentiation teaches us right faithand the transformation of life begins.(2) Perception of breathingIn this experiment, the speed of breathing is slowed down.Breathing is long, slow and at an equal interval. The breath, thatcome in and goes out in between the two nostrils, is reflected on.By training one learns to take as much time in breathing out as inbreathing in. The number of breathing is slowed down from 15-16to 6-7 per minute. Mental concentration will increase in proportionto the decrease in the number of breaths. The greatest advantage ofperception of breathing is that one gets rid of stresses andexcitement. This riddance increases the feeling of Joy in life.93Perception of breathing gives mental peace and increases mentalconcentration.(3) Journey to the inner-selfIn this experiment; energy is raised from the lowest point of thespinal chord and taken to the center of knowledge, the highestpoint of head through the spinal chord. Energy is taken from thecenter of energy to the center of knowledge with every breath.

Psyche is again concentrated on the center of energy whilebreathing out. The greatest advantage of this journey to the innerself is that one is freed from lust and the feelings of sexualenjoyment. Knowledge and memory are enhanced, as the center ofknowledge gets active. Through this journey, energy is transferredfrom the center of energy to the center of knowledge.(4) Perception of bodyEvery external and internal part of body is reflected on by autosuggestions.Psyche is concentrated on every part of the body. Thelatter gets relaxed as it is reflected on and begins to functionproperly. The greatest advantage of reflection in body is that onegains physical and mental health. The part of the body that ishaving pain is relieved of pain when it is concentrated on.(5) Perception of psychic centersThere are, in all, 13 spots in the body, which are the centers of soul(consciousness), they are centers of—knowledge, peace, light,perception, purification, joy, health and energy etc. These centers94get active when psyche is concentrated on them and the energy ofthe soul is centred on these spots. Perception on different centers ofconsciousness yields different advantages. For example,excitement is subsided when the center of light is concentrated on.Equanimity is enhanced and transcendental knowledge is gainedwhen the center of perception is reflected on. Tissues ofknowledge are developed when the center of knowledge isconcentrated on. Lust and the feelings of sex are purified when thecenter of purification is concentrated on Feelings are purified whenpsyche is concentrated on the center of joy.(6) Aural meditationAural meditation is brought about by concentrating on colours. Thecenter of consciousness is concentrated on keeping differentcolours in mind. Memory is enhanced when yellow colour isconcentrated on the center of knowledge. Passions like anger,vanity, illusion and greed etc. are subsided when the white moon isexperienced while concentrating on the center of light.Transcendental knowledge is gained by gradual and constantpractice. With the result that we move from the gross world to thesubtle world of intellect. Thoughts and ideas gets purified whenyellow colour is realized while concentrating on the center ofpurification. Feelings are purified and joy is gained when greencolour is realized while concentrating on the center of joy. Vitality95gets enhanced when blue colour is experienced while concentratingon the center of Tejus. Will power is enhanced when blue colour isthought of while concentrating on the center of health. Lusts aresubsided when blue colour is realized in mind while concentratingon the center of energy.(7) VolitionBy auto-suggestions, mind is filled with the feelings of noneternal,birth, non-shelter, oneness, separateness, non-greediness,stoppage, influx, dissociation, religion, enlightenment, friendship,

and compassion etc. By the development of these feelings, psycheis purified, fickleness of mind is removed, attachment is destroyedand the feeling of renunciation is encouraged. Attempt is made tofill mind and soul with each and every feeling. By doing so againand again, this act is formed into a habit with the result that there isno chance of evil habits getting developed. Good habits may bedeveloped in girls by filling their minds with these positivefeelings.(8) ContemplationThinking again and again for which Preksha meditation is carriedout in mind, is known as contemplation. In order to form goodhabits in girls, practice of the reflection on compassion, friendship,mutual trust, adjustment, humility, morality and authenticity isgiven to them. While reflecting, first of all mind is concentrated byrelaxation and aspirate sound. When mind is concentrated, it is96given auto-suggestions that the feelings of compassion, friendshipand morality are getting strengthened. This process is repeatedmany times. Attempts are mode to carry these feelings upto thesub-conscious mind. So that they are retained and get permanentand strong. By reflection on these feelings, we are moulded intotheir form. We get accustomed to these habits and we begin tobehave accordingly.Acharya Mahapragya says, "You will have the feelings as youhave the auras, the thoughts as you have the feelings and thebehaviour as you have the thoughts." We have to purify ourfeelings and this can be done only by the practice of reflection.Thus, with the practice of these eight steps of Preksha meditation,the feelings of girls are purified. After doing that, good habits mayeasily be formed in them. If these steps are practiced daily, therewill be no possibility of inauspicious habits getting developed. Theideas with which we fill our mind and soul are always hovering inthem and we behave with our mind, body and speech in conformitywith them. Bringing about refinement in a girl means bringingabout refinement in two families. A girl is the plant that grows intoa big tree in the form of a sister, a mother, a wife and a grandmother. She gets an even greater form as a banyan tree. Harmonyin families is very necessary to remove and solve the present dayproblems. In order to establish this harmony, giving good habits togirls is the first priority of the present age. The following lines of97Acharyashri Tulsi will automatically be realized if the girlsdevelop good habits.Sudhare vyakti samaj vyakti se,Rastra svayam sudhrega.If an individual is improved, society will be improved andeventually the nation will be improved.98

Chapter-7Concept of ThoughtIntroduction

Thought are like seeds from which feelings, habits, wordsand actions grow. Thinking is the maximum used and mostunderestimated power; that is everyone thinks all day long andeven at night we still think (dreaming). But how conscious we areof our thoughts and the effects they have on ourselves and others?

Necessary ThoughtsWhat shall I have for dinner to night; at what time do I pickmy children from school, what is the number of my bank accountallnecessary and practical thoughts to see to your daily needs. Butif these thoughts are repeated again and again they become waste(superfluous thoughts).

Waste (superfluous Thoughts)Worrying, brooding, thoughts running around in your head,this type of thought has a high tempo but adds to zero. They onlycost our energy. Waste thoughts are often about the past, if only Ihad, if this had not happened, or about the future, I hope if he doesnot show up. One could say that these thoughts are not realisticbecause the past has already gone by and the future is yet to come.99In other words we are not living in present, but living in the past.We make our past into our present, which then automaticallybecomes our future.

Positive ThoughtsPositive thoughts include thoughts about love, joy, respect,peace, enthusiasms, happiness, mercy, harmony, hope, honesty,tolerance and understanding.This list makes some people feel a bit faint or evenstubborn. Once there was a woman who did not consider lovepositive at all, she only had bad experiences with it, so we see howimportant it is to revalidate all these qualities to separate personalfeeling due to bad experiences from the common sentiment peoplehave. Most people have no problems at all in writing a list of theirown negative character traits, but feel difficulty in writing positivethoughts. Who can accept a compliment without feelingembarrassed? It shows how little we know ourselves.Positive thoughts by nature are slow. In between positivethoughts there is a space or gap, because of these positive thoughtsgives rest to the mind. One feels relaxed and also gets happiness.

Negative ThoughtsHave a negative result. One might also call these thoughtsmaterialistic because they are mostly based on materialistic needs,100desires and prejudices, rather than on inner (spiritual) values andqualities. We judge each other by the color of our skin, our car orbank account. Negative thoughts includes thoughts about criticism,carelessness, lust of power, egoism, jealousy, attachment, greed,anger, prejudice, revenge, sexism, laziness, stress, racism.

Effects of ThoughtsMore and more scientist and doctors are becoming aware ofthe enormous effect thoughts have on the physical health. Weliterally think ourselves sick.

This has another side to it also, we can think ourselves wellagain, and the effect of the so- called placebo pill (influence ourimagination and belief in our healing process) is already wellknown and is even effectively used for treating patients.If we don’t ask ourselves the question. ”Do you love me?”in order to restablish the broken relationship inside, we will keepon asking other, Do you really like me? Really? Only me? Andstill we will not believe it. Instead of looking at others all the time,it’s interesting to see how the relationship inside of me is. Do wesuppress feeling and intution or do we give them a chance. Do wedare to take major decision and to think big? Are we able toexpress our opinion or we are afraid and hide ourselves away andapologize even for our being there. Do we always want to be right101about everything and have things our way, or can we also givemind and confess we have made a mistake?Do we accept ourselves? What do we accept and what dowe deny?Whatever we accept in ourselves will lead to self respect.Even accepting certain weakness will eventually add to more selfrespect, stability and independence. We will not be so vulnerablewhen other remark on these weakneses; we know they are thereand that we are working on them. We do not have to defendourselves or get angry on it.

Essence of human natureThese five qualities are the essence of human nature. This is whowe really are behind the outer form.Essence of Human NaturePeaceLovePowerPurityHappiness102

References1. Sen Gupta, S.K, Silence of thought, Alwin PublicationChennai.2. Verma, S.N, Power of Mind, Friends Publication, Kolkata.3. Mukherjee T, Philosophy of Mind, Gena Publication,Mumbai.4. Acharaya Sridhar, Concept of Chitta and Mind, AncientPublication, Mumbai.103

Chapter-8Physiological effect of Asanas andPranayamaIntroductionYoga is great ancient discipline, it is recognized as one ofthe most important and valuable gifts of our culture. The modernera, with the development of Science and Technology provides

man more comfort for his basic necessities. But with thesecomforts only today the world is looking for solutions to solve themenacing problems of unhappiness, restlessness, conditionalimbalance etc. Now the time has come to think of change inattitude and take a new dimension to solve the problems. There isthe importance of Yoga and spiritual lure. Yoga is the gift of ourRishi culture, is a science and art of pure life style. Yoga offersman a conscious process to solve his problems. Yoga helps theman to evoke the hidden potentialities of man in a systematic andscientific way by which man becomes a full individual. All hisfaculties physical, mental, intellectual and emotional – developedin a harmony and integrated fashion to meet the all-roundchallenge. At the modern technological era, with its hectic speedthe specialty of the yogic process is that the faculties get sharpenedin time with the spiritual progress of man.104Yoga refers to a science, which helps to receive anideal body build-up, mental elegance and excellence ofconsciousness. Yoga refers to an utmost height of physical mentaland spiritual health. Yoga refers to a science of totaltransformation of life. Yoga is an experiment for expression oftruth of life. Yoga is the scientific process of transition of mind to astate of thoughtless sub-consciousness. Yoga is the philosophy ofenjoying a life filled with comfort and pleasure. With Yogapractice each and every part of the body is affected with positiveresponses. Yoga and Asanas practice leads to flexibility, stabilityand functional integrity of nerves, muscles, vessels and bloodcapillaries. Asanas exert influences particularly over the heart,lungs, spinal cord and endocrine glands.

Yoga and HealthYoga asanas impart physical and mental health over thebody by controlling, regulating and balancing the effect over thesympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system. Through regularpractice of Yoga normal physiological activities of nervoussystem, flexibility and contractibility of muscles vital capacity oflungs, blood circulation etc such biological processes are toned-up.

Specific effect of Yogasana on different systems1. Digestive system105Regular practice of Yogasanas activates the contractibilityand physiological activity of stomach. Secretion of gastric Juicesand hormones is increased. This helps to normalize the digestiveprocesses. Through various studies it has been observed that byYogasanas the peristaltic activity of intestines is increased.Moreover the absorbing capacity of Villi of small intestine ispromoted by asanas. As a result of which adequate amount ofnutrients are absorbed and desired supply of nutrition is madeavailable to respective part of the body.Yogasanas help to regulate these body processes, whichthereby control gastric disorders, such as constipation, indigestionand acidity chiefly Yogasans, which cause positive effects on

digestive system include Udar Shakti Vikasak Kriya, Padmasana,Vajrasana, Ardhayamatyasendrasana, Gomukhasana, Dhanurasanaetc.2. Respiratory SystemA regular practice of deep Pranayarna, Shavasana helps toregulate inspiration and expiration, which, in turn, providesadequate amount of oxygen in the body. Oxygen gets attached toblood and circulates the entire body.A regular practice of Pranayam helps to prevent theinfestation of bacterial infection in the lungs, more specifically theapical region of lungs. Especially the saprolactic bacteria areprevented, which subsequently cause T.B. Apart from this, the106practice of finer techniques of paranayam, helps to relievepulmonary disorders, such as bronchitis, pneumonia etc.

Effects on Endocrine GlandsIt has been revealed through extensive researches thatvarious meditative asans, especially, Padmasana, helps to regulateendocrine secretion of serotonin and dopamine. In such persons inwhom there is more secretion of adrenaline and cortisone,meditative asanas such as Padmasana helps to control suchsecretions. This helps to control serious disorders, such as highB.P., stress and anxiety. Thus, every asana regulate one or theother endocrine gland and thus offers physical and mental healthand alleviate disorders.Hyperactivity of parasympathetic nervous system resultsinto aggressiveness and criminal behaviors in a person. On theother side, hyperactivity of sympathetic nervous system leads toinferiority complex and down with undue terror. With the result ofYogasanas the activity of both these nervures systems are wellregulated and balanced, which leads to progressive growth anddevelopment of the person.

Effects on Muscular SystemA regular practice of Yogic Asanas and Yogic processestones up muscles and offers flexibility. It normalizes the107physiological activities of muscles. Moreover, at minute levels itreconstitutes any damage to muscles. Yogasana accelerates theoxygen supply to blood and thus promotes the normal catabolismof glycogen to release desired level of energy. This helps toregulate the lactic acid level in blood and energy based differentmetabolic processes continue in a normal manner.

Effect of Yogasanas on Circulatory SystemRegular practice of Yogasana promotes purification andcirculation of blood in different systems of the body. Anaccelerated blood flow during Yoga practice helps to depletevarious harmful deposits, such as cholesterol in the blood vessels.Thus Yogasanas helps to prevent various disorders related tocardiovascular system.

Physiological Effects of Pranayama onRespiratory system

The concept of pranayama is often mistaken for deepbreathing. In the later situation, movement of breath is fast andforceful. There is no time for the cells to get soaked in the inhaledoxygen. In pranayama, the movements are so slow that there isadequate time for every alveoli to soak in oxygen.1. The respiratory system is geared to aerate the internalatmosphere.1082. The venous return is much better due to phasic changes inbreathing. The pulmonary vascular bed relaxes toaccommodate more inflow of oxygen and blood. Betterdiffusion of gases occurs.3. Elasticity of the lungs and the entire respiratory tract ismaintained to a ripe old age.4. The hemoglobin/oxygen saturation is enhanced duringkumbhaka, as there is enough time for saturation.5. The vital capacity, inspiratory volumes are increased. Thedead space is reduced. The residual volume is decreased asmore complete exhalation is performed.6. The alveoli are exercised, which promotes excellentexcretion of toxins and gases.7. Due to more efficient changes in blood gases, propermaintenance of pH is achieved. This is the most importantrequisite, for better cellular function.8. The ventilation of sinuses is made excellent, promotinggood drainage.9. The healthy movement of diaphragm massages theabdominal organs, improving their blood supply and aidingthe venous drainage to the thoracic, cavity.

Physiological Effects of Pranayam on Digestivesystem109The flow of breath in sitali pranayama stimulates the tastebuds. In other types, the salivary glands get rest.1. The proper return of lymph and venous blood improves thedigestive, absorptive and eliminating functions of theabdominal organs.2. Constipation is relieved. The Stomach is massaged. Theintestines are contracted and reflex expansion promotesexcellent blood flow and venous return.3. The liver and gall bladder are massaged, improving theirfunction.4. Die to reduction in sympathetic tone, acid secretiondiminishes, relieving stress-related peptic disorders.

ConclusionYogic asanas impart physical and mental health all over thebody by controlling, regulating and balancing the effect over thesympathetic arid parasympathetic nervous system. Through regularpractice of Yoga normal physiological activities of nervoussystem, flexibility and contractibility of muscles, vital capacity oflungs, blood circulation etc such biological processes are toned-up.

A regular practice of Deep Pranayarma, Shavasana helps toregulate inspiration and expiration, which in turn, providesadequate amount of oxygen in the body. Oxygen gets attached toblood and circulates the entire body.110Our human body is a marvelous piece of machinery. Propermaintenance of it keeps it going without problems to a ripe oldage.The practice of Yoga Asanas and Pranayama isunquestionably an ideal method to preserve the health andlongevity of our body. Yoga is unique in that it recuperates theentire system. In the Yogic system, the mechanism is quiet andrestful. Asanas provide a soothing effect on both the outer andinner organs, The result is organ franquility.Yogasanas, Pranayam, Bandh, Shatkarma, Dhyan etc. suchyogic processes carry specific effects on heart, lungs, nervoussystem and on endocrine glands. Pranayama and other yogicprocesses control various clinical disorders. It promotes vitalcapacities of various endocrine and exocrine glands. Moreover,yogic exercises regulates nervous system excretory system andnormalizes the nerve stimuli. This helps to regulate and normalizesthe physical, mental and social state of the person to lead a normalday to day life. Overall the Yoga practice builds-up a positiveattitude in a person, which itself relieves various aliments andoffers a heavenly life.

References1. Grade, R.V., Principles and Practice of Yoga therapy,Publication, Taraporevala Bombay, 1972.1112. Bernard, T.H. Theos, Hatha Yoga, Publication, ColumbiaUniversity Press, New York, 1944.3. Brena, S.F., Yoga and Medicine, Publication, Julian Press,New York, 1972.4. Ray, S. Dutta, Yogic Exercises, Publication, JaypeeBrothers, New Delhi 1998.5. Kumar. N, Prakritic Chikitsa Lvam Yoga, Publication,Nirogi Duniya, Jaipur, 2002.6. Hewitt James, The Complete Yoga Book, Publication,Random House, 1983.7. Pandiamani, B.K., Principles of Yoga therapy, social skillsand living value based education, Annamalai UniversityPublication, 2004.8. Vishvanathan S., Science of Yoga, Annamalai UniversityPublication, Tamilnadu, 2004.9. Singh, Gurucharan, Contours of Yoga With Reference ToReligious Approach, International Yoga Conference,University of Jammu, 2003.112

Chapter-9Role of Yoga in Coronary heart diseaseIntroduction

Coronary heart disease is the commonest cause of thecardiovascular disability and death. This pathological stateincludes “Arteriosclerotic Coronary Arterty Disease” and“Ischemic heart disease”. The heart functions as the pumpingstation for the supply of blood to the whole body, whereas“Coronary arteries” which come out of the aorta, supply the bloodand feed the heart muscles themselves. The main coronary arterieslie on the surface of the heart and small arteries penetrate into thecardiac muscle mass. The ‘left coronary artery’ supplies mainly theanterior part of the left ventricle, whereas the “right coronaryartery” supplies most of the left ventricle.The fresting coronary blood flows in the human beingaverages approximately 225 ml per minute, which is about 4 to 5percentage of the total cardiac output. During extra work periodthe heart increase its cardiac output as much as four to five folds,and it pumps the blood against a higher than normal arterialpressure. Consequently the work output of the heart under severeconditions may increase as six to eight folds. The coronary blood113flow also increases four to five folds to supply the extra nutrientsneeded by the heart.Coronary Heart disease is a condition in which the heartmuscle receives an inadequate amount of blood because of aninterruption on its blood supply. Depending on the degree ofinterruption, symptoms can range from a mild chest pain to a fullscale heart attack. Generally, the symptoms manifest themselveswhen there is about a 75 percent narrowing of coronary arterylumen. The underlying causes of this disease are many and varied.Two of the principal ones are “Aterosclerosis” and “Coronaryartery spasm”.

CausesAterosclerosisAterosclerosis (Something called ‘hardening of the arteries)is a situation characterized by thickening of the arterial wall with:-Large number of smooth- muscle cells.Deposits of cholesterol and other substances in the portionof the vessel wall closest to the lumen.The mechanism that initiates this thickening is not clear,but it is known that cigarette smoking, high plasma cholesterolconcentration hypertension, diabetes and several other factorsincrease the incidence and the severity of the atheroscleroticprocess. The extra muscle cells and various deposit in the wall114bulge into the lumen of the vessel and increase resistance to flow.This is usually progressive, often leading ultimately to completeocclusion. Acute coronary occlusion may occur because ofSudden formation of blood clot on the roughened vesselsurface,a) The breaking off of a fragment of blood clot or fat thenloges downstream, completely blocking smaller vessel, orb) A profound spasm of the vessel, smooth muscle.Coronary Atery Spasm (CAS)

CAS is a condition in which the smooth muscle of acoronary artery undergoes a sudden contraction, resulting in vasoconstriction.It typically occurs in individuals with atherosclerosisand may result in chest pain during rest, chest pain during exertion,heart attacks and sudden death. Although the causes of coronaryartery spasm are not well known, smoking, stress and alcoholismare said to be the triggering agents.SymptomsThe most common symptom is angina, where the patientsuffers recurrent chest pain of effort, which normally does notproduce pain, such as walking on level ground or climbing a flightof stairs. This is due to poor circulation of blood and oxygen to theheart muscle.115Unstable angina is the condition where the patient sufferschest pain, which is difficult to stabilize with drugs. Rhythmicity islost. In unstable angina, the pain occurs at rest (Prinzmetal’sangina), which means that the blood flow to the heart is grosslyreduced. Emergency bypass surgery may be required.Yet another manifestation of underlying ischemia isoccasional chest pain often overlooked as being due to wind,giddiness, or the presence of hypertension.

Yogic ManagementYoga insists that prevention is better than cure. Asanasrelieve angina pain very quickly. Asanas and pranayama practicedregularly keep CHD at bay, each of the different practicescontributing in its own way.When the process of aterosclerosis advances, the bloodvessels are narrowed beyond a critical degree. So strokers, heartattacks and malfunctioing of all organs occur. Thus, the elasticityof the blood vessels is lost and pressure rises in the blood vessels.Asanas maintain the elasticity of tissues and prevent changes inpressure.Yoga is the wonderful solution to all circulatory problems.It works by keeping the two gates of the body-the circulatorysystem and the respiratory system-clean. Regional circulation(blood flow to each organ) reduces, as one grows older. There is a116fall in perfusion pressure, dampening the flow of blood to vitalorgans.

Effect of Standing AsanasStanding poses strength the cardiac reserve. No lactic acidis formed and hence fatigue of the muscle does not occur. Lungcapacity can be increased by standing poses. As the various returnsare higher, varicose veins do not occur and the pumping efficiencyof the heart is higher; Endurance is built up. All standing posesalternatively increase and decrease the flow of blood to the otherorgans like the liver, spleen, kidneys.

Effect of Forward Bending AsanasForward bends stretch the posterior surface of theabdominal organs. Forward bends soothe the nerves and improve

the function of the sympathetic nervous system.Forward bends bring down the heart rate and pulse. Sincethe body is parallel to the floor, gravity does not affect the heartand blood flows to both extremities without strain. Thesympathetic nervous system is given a tremendous boost of energyso that when these poses are completed one feels extremelyenergetic and refreshed. Forward bends trend to close the chambersof the heart.117

Effect of Back-Bending AsanasAll back bends stretch the cardiac vessels, so that bloodflow increases and blocks cannot occur. It is precisely for thisreason that patients with coronary ischemia are taught back bendsand no forward bending asanas initially.The massaging force literally breaks downthe molecules of obstruction in the arteries. This natural outcome iscalled ‘physiological bypass. The quality of contraction of amuscle fibre is directly proportional to the initial length of themuscle. As all back bends stretch the thoracic organs, venousreturn is enhanced. It improves coronary blood flow.The flow of blood to the frontal lungs is greatly increasedin all back bending asanas. Elasticity of the tissues is maintained sothat the vital capacity of the lungs does not decrease with age.Because of increased blood flow to the lungs, oxygen uptake isstimulated. There will be no areas of hypo perfusion in the lungs ofa yogi.A healthy lung leads to a healthy heart. If the lungs performefficiently with excellent intake of oxygen, the myocardium getsthe benefits as the oxygen rich blood flow into the heart.

Effect of Inverted AsanasInverted poses drain all the venous blood from all organs,revitalizing them with fresh blood. An important effect of inverted118poses is on the vasculature of the legs. The constant strain ofgravity and the effort needed to pump the blood upward to theheart is removed and rest is given to the entire musculature andnerves of the leg. So, varicose veins do not occur. The smallmuscles inside the calf, which continuously pump the lymph up thebody, get rest.Practice of inverted postures re-establishes the blood flowto the heart and penetrates to the level of the microcirculation. Thecoronary cells cannot die prematurely. The cerebral nerves arerested in this pose and one feels soothed with revitalization of thecenters in the brain that control the heart.

PranayamaAs a deep inhalation is done, enhanced venous returnoccurs along with better lymphatic drainage. The rhythmic up anddown movement of the diaphragm massages the abdominal organs,increasing their circulation and efficiency. Blood flow changes inthe kidneys, permitting better filtering action of water and solutes.Changes in coronary flow occur during paranayama,

allowing more blood to flow into the coronary vessels. The inputof healthy blood into the lungs increases, allowing better uptake ofoxygen and build up of adenosine triphophate (ATP) molecules atthe cellular level, which is the source of energy to the cell. Bloodflow in the brain can change with pranayama where a prolonged119exhalation soothes the neurons by increasing the blood flow.Quietening of the mind during pranayama is very beneficial tocardiac patient, reducing stress on the sympathetic nerves.Relaxation of the nervous system allows excellentperfusion of blood with the coronaries relieving oxygen starvationof tissues. Angina vanishes rapidly after pranayamic practice. It isthe only science that delivers oxygen directly without strain andfacilitates storage at the cellular level.

Suggested PracticesAsanas1. Breathing practices2. Uttkatasana3. Bhujangasana4. Makrasana5. Padmasana6. SavasanaPranayama1. Sectional breathing2. Nadi Sodhan3. Ujjayi pranayamaMeditation120Silent mediation for 20-30 mints.DietAvoid foods containing fats and cholesterol.Eat more vegetables and fruits. Take light vegetarian meals.

References1. Grade, R.V. Principles of Yoga Therapy, Taraporevala,Bombay, 1972.2. James Hewitt, The Complete Yoga, RiderPublication,1983.3. Gupta, Yogi, Yoga and Long Life, Dodd Mead, Toronto,1958, Y. Gupta, new York, 1965.4. Marwaha, B.S., Health and Efficiency through YogaAsanas, Army Educational Publications, New Delhi, 1965.5. Sinh Pancham, (TR), Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Lalit MohanBasu, The Panini Office, Allahabad, 1915.6. Mumford, J., Psycomatic Yoga , Thorsomns, 1962.121

Chapter-10Yogic management of DiabetesIntroductionDiabetes is a disease of the prosperous and in wealthycountries. It is one of the major health problems. Dietary sugars

and starch are broken down to glucose by the process of digestionand this glucose is the major fuel for the various processes, organsand cells of the body. Glucose metabolism is under the control ofthe harmone insulin, which is secreted by the pancreas, a largegland behind the stomach. When this gland becomes stressed orexhausted, the hormone insulin becomes deficient in quantity orsensitivity. As a result, the blood sugar level becomes high anduncontrolled, then patient suffers from Diabetes.

Type I: Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus(IDDM) or Juvenile onsetIn this type of diabetes the hormone insulin is completelyor almost completely absent from the islets of langerhans andplasma, and insulin treatment is essential. It is called insulindependent diabetes because of compulsory periodic insulinadministration, to control the rise of blood- glucose level. It can122occur at any age, though it most commonly occurs during youngerage.

Type II: Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus(NIDDM) or Maturity OnsetThis type of diabetes is much more common than juvenileonset and most often occurs in people who are over 40 and overweight. Since it occur in the later stage in life, it is termed asmaturity onset diabetes. In this condition of diabetes the hormoneinsulin is often present in plasma at near-normal or even abovenormal level and additional insulin is not required to sustain lifeand to maintain normal blood glucose level. Patient with this typeof diabetes produces little or excessive insulin in their pancreas, iteither is not enough for proper function or is not being producedquickly enough to influence glucose levels in the blood effectively.This happen probably due to defects in molecular machinery thatmediates the action of insulin on its target cells. That is why thisdiabetes is called non- insulin dependent diabetes mellitus.

CausesYogic science recognizes two interrelated causes ofdiabetes. Firstly long term devitalzaticm and sluggishness of thedigestive process due to dietary abuse, overeating, obesity and lackof exercise. High intake of sugar and carbohydrate rich diet is123especially implicated. If a person takes a large amount of sugar,sweets or chocolates etc. then his pancreas is ready to respond bypouring out a large amount of insulin to rapidly manage therocketing blood sugar level without incident.However, if such a sugar-rich diet is eaten every day, thepancreas is being called upon constantly to secrete enormousamounts of insulin, and it begins to get tired and become depleted.Insulin production in response to sugar stimulation becomesincreasingly inadequate. As a result, the blood remains saturatedwith sugar for long periods of time, it is then only a matter of timebefore diabetes is diagnosed. This usually occurs when the patientattends the doctor for investigation of one of the symptoms of high

blood sugar e.g. an excessive thirst or urination, a resistant skin orurinary infection or failing eyesight.The second causative factor is that diabetes is stress related.The stress and frustrations of modern sedentary man largelymanifest on the mental and emotional planes, unlike our ancestorswho had to wage a physical battle for survival. Nevertheless, theadrenal glands are in a constant state of activation, spilling the“stress hormone” adrenaline into the blood stream. This is a potentstimulus to the body to mobilize glucose into the blood. In this waya constant heavy burden of worries and an anxieties imposes aconstant demand for insulin secretion, which can ultimatelyprecipitates especially in conjunction with a sugar.124

SymptomsThe most marked symptoms are polyuria and polydipsia.The patient may pass lot of urine in 24 hours. The urine is clearand of low specific gravity (1002-2004) and osmolatity. Theosmotic effect of increased levels of blood glucose causes morethirst and hunger. These classified symptoms, however, are not thenormal presentation.Sometimes the patient suffers a frozen shoulder and thiscan be a manifestation of diabetes. Lethargy, weight loss and easysusceptibility to infections, particularly of the skin (like a simpleboil or fungal infection) excessive hunger, craving for sweets andsweating are some of the other symptoms.Normally, the fasting level of blood glucose is less than 90mg/dl and the post prandial (2 hours) level is less than 120 mg/dl.If the post- prandial sugar level is between 150 and 200 mg, thecondition is labeled as an impaired tolerance, and if above 200. Itis frank diabetes.

Yogic Management of DiabetesYogasana is ideally suited for both types of DiabetesMellitus. In Insulin Dependent diabetes Mellitus, asanas help toprevent an increase in insulin required over the years. In NIDDM,asanas help to normalize blood sugar due to the high intensity125workout. Yogic exercises can either be of high or low intensity,depending on the clinical condition. Young active diabetics can bemade to practice very intense asanas in a dynamic manner, whichwill increase the cellular activity of the muscle, which needs moresugar. The advanced asanas require a lot of energy and this helpsnormalize blood sugar but, if the person is obese, asana practice isdifficult and it is easier to reduce weight by other means and thentake up Yoga.The single advantage of the asana system is that the internalorgans, which are directly affected by the geometric shape of theasana itself. Even an elderly diabetic can practice it without anydanger.The force of arterial flow can be increased and directed toany organ, which is of immense use in the diabetic state. Instanding poses, the skeletal muscles increase their uptake of sugar.Hence, the tissues retain insulin sensitivity. Capillary changes are

easily prevented by Yoga as the action is on the vessel wall.Yoga is microcellular in its action. At the internal organsare massaged, sensitivity to insulin and uptake of sugar areenhanced. Twisting poses squeeze the intestines and massagethem. Hence, stagnation of colonic contents due to autonomicdysfunction cannot occur. Asanas also pressurize the pancreas inan effort to improve the secretary status. The massage of thepancreas by forward bends and twisting helps to release moreinsulin in response to food.126Backward bends, being very strenuous, help to reduceblood sugar. Backbends improve blood supply to all abdominaland pelvic organs. This ensures healthy cellular integrity and dueto the massage no deposit are formed. Forward bends increase thegastric fire and help healthy digestion of food. This preventsfluctuations of sugar levels in a diabetic. Burning up of excesssugar is promoted by the stimulation of gastric fire.Pranayama definitely increase the natural immunity ofbody and vital capacity of lungs. Pranayama is highly valuable forimproving oxygen perfusion to tissues. As it also removes stress onthe system, progression of blockage is arrested. Oxygen deliveryto the tissue is systematic and sure. Tissue hypoxia never occurs.Sympathetic and parasympathetic stabilization prevent autonomicdysfunction.It is very useful for all complication of the diabetic stateparticularly cardiac autonomic dysfunction, retinopathy andperipheral arterial occlusive conditions.

Simplified Yogic Practice Chart For DiabeticPatientAsanas Pranayama Meditation DietArdhamatsyendrasanaTrikonasanaVibhagaNadishodhanBhramariSilentMeditation for15-20Avoid starchyFood, eat moreFibers and127VakrasanaBhujangasanaDhanurasanaMatsyasanaSavasanaminutes. Protein content.Foodrestrictionsshould be,

followed.

ConclusionsFrom the above facts it is clear that Diabetes is life styledisease. It decreases the auto Immune system of human body andproduces lot of complication in life. But yogic life style, specificAsanas, Pranayamas will be stimulating auto healing systems ofbody as a result of that remove the complications of the diabeticstate.Diabetes is one of the most common disease in humanbeing. It is a metabolic disease in which primary problem is thedefective utilization of sugar by the body. Pancreas gland producesthe hormone insulin, which controls the body’s ability to store andutilize sugar.In sufficient production of insulin result in the inability ofthe body of use indigestion sugar, causing excessive amounts to bereleased in to the blood and also passed out with the urine. Thisdangerous and wide spread disease is known as diabetes. SpecificYogasana and Pranayanama should be done daily. Life style isvery useful for all complication of the diabetic state.128

References1. Meeraj, Nagandra, Madhumeha laelaj nahi, Nirogi DuniaPublication, Rajasthan.2. Malshe, Prakash, Yoga book for Docters, Antar ParkashPublication.3. Verma, Vinod, Ayurveds for life.4. Sri Anand, The Complete book of Yoga, Orient paper backPublication, New Delhi.129

Chapter-11Yogic management of HypertensivePatientHypertension or high blood pressure is the most commondisease affecting the heart and blood vessels There is an agreementat large that blood pressure of 120/80 is normal in a healthy adult.Borderline high blood pressure is defined as diastolic pressurebetween 85 and 90 mild high blood pressure is diastolic pressurebetween 91 and 104 and moderate high blood pressure is diastolicpressure between 105 and 115 severe high blood pressure isdiastolic pressure of 116 or higher. Isolated systolic hypertension issystolic pressure greater than 160 in those whose diastolic pressureis less than 90.Hypertension could be caused by an increase in cardiacoutput or in total peripheral resistance or both. In reality howeverthe major abnormality in most cases of well-establishedhypertension is increased total peripheral resistance caused byabnormally reduced arteriolar lumen for more than 95 percent ofthe persons with hypertension. The cause of hypertension is knownand in that condition it is called ‘essential hypertension’. Theremaining percentage is secondary hypertension which has an

130identifiable underlying cause such as kidney diseases, adrenalhyper secretion etc.Psychological, physiological and environmental factors areonly three of the many factors that lead to high blood pressure. Acommon misconception is that ageing causes hypertension. Itdoesn’t always though the universal average for the onset ofhypertension in the late thirties. Overweight people and those whoare tense and excitable are especially susceptible to hypertension;emotional conflicts are also a cause.The cells of the kidneys secrete the hormone rennin whichis influenced by sympathetic stress, the stress faced by the bodyand the mind. Hence rennin secretion may well be under mentalinfluences. Rennin reacts with a chemical known asangiotensinogen and this sets off a series of chemical changesproducing an end product known as angiotenson which causesvaso-constriction and elevated blood pressure. This situation isalso influenced by the hormone aldosterone which retains salt andwater through the kidneys aggravating the condition.The normal blood pressure under resting conditions shouldbe 120/80mm of mercury. Both the systolic and diastolic pressurecan be affected. Both have to be made normal with treatment. Thelevel at which the systolic pressure should be treated is 140mm andthe diastolic 90mm. Pressure of 130 to 135mm systolic and 85 to88diastolic are labeled as high normal Systolic pressure is themeasurement made when the heart is contracting and the muscle131pushes out blood from the ventricles and in the process presses onthe coronary arteries reducing its own blood supply. Hence if thediastolic pressure remains above 90mm coronary artery filling willbe jeopardized.This sympathetic stress is reduced the diastolic pressure isreduced and coronary filling is normalized. High blood pressure isa serious condition and requires prompt attention because it is anunderlying factor that brings about other cardiovascular and renaldisorders like stroke heart disease, kidney trouble and hardening ofthe arteries. The pressure can remain stable or fluctuate. The latteris a dangerous can produce a stroke high blood pressure worksinsidiously. It affects the heart and blood vessels and thenindirectly other organs. When blood vessels get constricted, theheart must work harder and a time comes when its own coronaryarteries can no longer nourish the heart then heart diseasedevelops. Similarly hypertension affects the brain and kidneysresulting in stroke and uraemia both fatal conditions.Yoga is an excellent means of treating high blood pressure.As hypertension begins in the mind Yoga is of prime value.However weight loss is essential for yogic management to be ofuse and only dynamic exercises can reduce weight. Yoga can bepracticed side by side with weight-reducing exercises as Yogaalone can prevent vascular complications due to its massagingeffect on the arteries Asanas make the arteries and capillaries132

elastic and allow more blood to flow into various areas resulting inbetter relaxation of those tissues.The sympathetic nervous system is always set on higherlevel of charge in hypertensive. By the practice of Yoga the tone ofsympathetic discharge is brought down Shavasana relaxation islike sleep. It is conscious sleep. In sleep the nervous systemrecoups itself the same happens in Yoga. There is yet anotherdifference. In sleep the subconscious mind is still active and thenerves are still tense. In Yoga every part of the nervous system iskept passive and the relaxation of the nerves is far better.The state of nerves in a hypertensive is one of overuse anddecreased excitability. Excitabilites means the ability to transmitan impulse. In a hypertensive the nerves are exhausted andoverstrained. As the excitability of the nerve is inverselyproportional to the degree of activity, Yoga restores the elasticityof the nervous system. A proper sleep pattern is essential for allparticularity for a hypertension patient. The delicate biorhythm inthe body which influences the neuro-endocrine circuit shouldnever be upset.Forward bends are the linchpin of yogic managementwithout which the pressure never normalizes. Fluctuations of bloodpressure are controlled by these poses. When these posses arepracticed the thoracic cage is brought parallel to the ground and theheart slows down as there is no strain to push the blood againstgravity to the brain. With the heart rate slowing the cardiac output133also slows. These poses increase in the tone and the excesssympathetic tone is reduced. There is then a decrease in the tone ofthe vasomotor centre in the brain (which controls the tone of thearteries) and blood pressure drops.Setu bandha, sarvangasana rests the brain and again thecortical centers are rested and the mind is kept at its root. The liftof the diaphragm and lungs and the emotional centre on the heartwhich occurs in this asana stabilizes the blood pressure. Savasanawith normal inhalation and prolonged exhalation stabilizes thesympathetic nervous system. The longer exhalation relaxes thesympathetic nerves and the BP is controlledPranayama greatly influences the circularly system. Witheach inhalation and exhalation the output of blood flow to the bodyvaries. This changes the blood pressure. In prolonged inhalation(never done by normal people) the right ventricular (RV)outputincreases and left ventricular (LV) output falls. In exhalation thereverse occurs. Due to the increase in duration of inhalation andexhalation significant pressure changes can occurs. The emphasison inhalation or exhalation depends on blood pressure being highor low. The overdrive of the sympathetic nervous system is mostamenable to reduction by the practice of pranayama. The elasticityof the aorta and major blood vessels is well maintained.The steady rhythmic breathing helps control the autonomicsystem. As the breathing rate reduces the stress on the body is134reduced. The hibernative state removes the accumulated stress all

this happens over a period of time

Useful Yoga PracticesAsanas Pranayama1.Ardhakati chakrasana 1. Sectional breathing2.Garudasana 2.Nadishodhan pranayama3Adrhamatsyendrasana 3.Brahmari4.Bhujangasana5.Usthrasana6.SavasanaDietConsume less salt and fat Eat leafy vegetables more.

References1. Bakhru, H.K, A Hand book of Nature Cure.2. Neeraj Nagendra, Rogon Ki Sahi Chikitsha.3. Jussawala, J.M, Natural Therapeutics.4. Modi, V.D. Rogon Ki Saral Chikitsha.5. Louis Kuhne, Rogon Ki Nayi Chikitsha.6. Park, J.E, Text book of Preventive and Social Medicine.7. Paul Benjamin, Health, Culture and Community.135

Chapter-12obesity, Causes, Complications and YogicManagementIntroductionObesity is spreading like an epidemic not only in thedeveloped countries but also in the developing countries, all arefacing this problem a like. Why there is this sudden increase in theincidence of obesity? There are several theories to explain thisHowever given the facts that obesity leads to several complicationsit must be considered the condition to be treated with utmostpriority. While there are several facts to the problem of obesity. Itis clear that obesity is associated with shortening of life span andcomplications which make life difficult for the individual.It is also commonly believed that obesity often result fromendocrine disturbances but in fact that is exceedingly rare apartfrom hyper insulinism. Crushing disease and occasionallymyxoedema, frotlich’s syndrome is due to hypothalamic and notdue to pituitary dysfunction. The obesity which so commonly startsafter the pregnancy or the menopause has probably little or noendocrine connection.136

Causes(i) Psychogenic ObesityStudies of obese patients show that a large proportion ofobesity results from psychogenic factors. Perhaps the mostcommon psychogenic factor contributing to obesity is the prevalentidea that healthy eating habits requires three meals a day and thateach meal must be filing. Many children are forced into this habitby over –solicitous parents and the children continue to practice it

throughout life.(ii) Genetic Factors in ObesityThe genes can direct the degree of feeding in severaldifferent ways including (i) a genetic abnormality of feeding centrethat sets the level of nutrient storage high or low, and (ii) abnormalhereditary psychic factors that either watch the appetite or causesthe person to eat as a release mechanism.(iii) Genetics-LeptinIt is widely accepted that leptin –a naturally occurringhormone that controls the appetite-may be one of the causes ofobesity. When full fat cells release the hormone leptin, it curbsappetite. If leptin production is hindered, the fat cells are unable tosignal that they are full, and weight gain occurs. Research intoleptin is only just beginning although the leptin–obesity linkappears to have been disproved by some initial studies.137(iv) Genes-HormonesA small minority of cases of obesity can be explained byglandular or hormonal problems. One such problem is clinicalhypothyroidism, where there is not enough thyroid hormone tocontrol normal rates of metabolism. In Crushing’s syndrome alsowhere the production of the corticosteroid hormones is abnormalsex hormones can also affect obesity. In woman, the balance offemale sex hormones determines body fat level duringadolescence, pregnancy and the menopause. Changes in energyintake desire for food and specific cravings occur at various stagesof the menstrual cycle. Some woman appear to be moresusceptibly than others to hormonal changes and many overweightwoman cite pregnancy as the time when their problem started.(v) Illness and /or DrugsSome illness can lead to obesity or a tendency to gainweight. So far we have dealt with an excess of energy /calories, inbut lack of calories out is also one of the major causes of weightgain and obesity. Lack of physical activity caused by watching toomuch TV, or playing too many computer games is stronglyassociated with obesity levels especially in young people.(vi) Childhood over nutritionThe number of fat cells in the adult body is determinedalmost entirely by the amount of fat stored in the body during earlylife. The rate of formation of new fat cells is especially rapid in138obese infants and it continues at a lesser rate in obese children untiladolescence thereafter the number of fat cells remains almostconstant throughout the life. Thus it is believed that overfeedingchildren, especially in infancy and to a lesser extent during theolder years of childhood, can lead to lifetime obesity.

Complication of obesity(i) Osteoarthritis of kneesIn almost any obese individual some degree ofosteoarthritis of the knees is inevitable so that they develop pain inknees by the age of 50 and walk with a wadding gait.

(ii) Varicose veinsTorturous veins in the legs result from damage to theirdirectly related with obesity and it has been documented that aweight reduction brings the blood pressure down without the use ofdrugs.(iii) Hiatus herniaA large accumulation of fat in the abdominal cavity pushesthe uppermost part of stomach into the thorax through thediaphragmatic aperture. This can lead to symptoms such asheartburn and sour regurgitation.(iv) BreathlessnessAn average obese individual is all time carrying an extraload of fat of about 15-20 kg. For this reason alone one can139become breathless while climbing up stairs. However, this is notall. The extra fat has its own blood supply and in this way putssome demand on the heart. There is an associated increase in bloodpressure. All these factors may lead to a mild heart failure; whichalso may contribute to the breathlessness experienced by obeseindividuals. Weight reduction may reduce the symptoms.(v) Sleep ApneaA grossly obese individual who has about 20 kg extra fat inthe body has about 300-400 gms. extra fat in the tissues of thethroat and back of tongue. Snoring is a common problem. In theseindividuals; when they sleep, the tongue falls back and closes thethroat. A chocking sensation results which awakes the patient fromsleep. There are almost 20-50 awakenings per night with the resultof that the individual becomes sleep-deprived and feels drowsy inthe daytime. Of late ‘CPAP therapy’ has been developed for suchsufferers. It is given using a machine which delivers positivespressure breathing a tube fitted in the mouth. The person has tosleep with the gadget put on with the tube in his mouth and tiedsecurely to the head.(vi) Coronary heart DiseaseBoth sudden death and clinically documented heart attacksare more common in obese people especially males while femalessuffer from coronary heart disease.140(vii) Diabetes-(NIDDM)It is not unusual to see an obese person becoming adiabetic. In fact obesity is always associated with insulin resistancelack of affectiveness of insulin-the blood sugar lowering hormone(viii) Back ProblemsSince the enlarges protuberant abdomen changes the way aperson stands it deforms the backbone and leads to what is knownas spondylolisthesis. Once acquired the wrong posture cannot becorrected unless the excess of body fat is got rid of.

Management of Obesity(i) Diet managementThis is probably the only way available to reduce bodyweight in obese persons If we take into account the daily calorie

consumption as around 2200-2400 cals and the fact that IG of fatproduces 9 Cals then it can be calculated that a totally fastingindividual will lose around 50G of fat per day. When the obviousweight loss is much more then this it is due to the loss of water andelectrolytes and which is soon regain once normal diet is resumed.(ii) Yogic managementIn Yoga thereby we practice asanas not only for the sake ofburning extra calories, but also to develop body awareness tounderstand the language of our body the way it works and whatsuits it best. From this understanding we can modify or adjust our141diet and lifestyle to suit the needs of our body and mind. Eventhough the aim of Yoga is not just reduction of weight this isbound to happen as an outcome of our increased self-awareness.Surya Namaskar (salutation to the sun )is most importantfor the treatment of obesity. Surya Namaskar is a complete practiceitself because it is a combination of asana, pranayama, mantra andmeditation. This practice has a unique influence on the endocrineand nervous system helping to correct metabolic imbalance thatcause and perpetuate obesity. Being a dynamic practice it is also anexcellent exercise equated to cycling jogging or swimming.The best asanas for obesity are the Pawanamuktasana.Series for the digestive system which help to remove extra fat fromthe abdomen hips and thighs and activate the energy in the lowerpranic centers. These practices are very good for strengthening theabdominal muscles which are usually very flaccid in the obesepatient. It also helps to burn the extra fat tissue of the momentumwhich is fold of peritoneum in the abdomen very rich in fat tissue.The practices from the shakthi bandha series are alsoeffective in reducing obesity Kriyas like jaladhauti, shankha,prakshalana etc. and asanas like halasana, paschimottansana,dhaurasana, sarvangasana, matsyasana, padhastasana, Yogamudramassage the abdominal organ and to release the power of themanipurak chakra the source of willpower and self-assertiveness(which is often weak in the obese patient) and that governs all ourmetabolic processes.142The pranayama practices recommended for obesity are alsothe more dynamic forms which stimulate the metabolism theyinclude bhastrika, kapalabhati and suryabhedi which are performedalong with balancing practices like nadi shodhan, ujjayi, sheetaliand sheetkari are relaxing cooling practices which influencedifferent hypothalamic centers which give control over thirst andthe feeling of satisfaction with healthy quantities and qualities offood.

Useful practices(i) Suryanamaskar(ii) AsanasParivart, Trikonasana, Paschimotanasana, Usthrasana,Arthamatsyendrasa, Yoga, Mudra, Dhanurasana, Navasana,Halasana, Sarvanagasana, Matsyana.

(iii) PranayamaSuryabhedi, Ujjayi, Nadisodhan.(iv) KriyaBhastrika, Kalpalabhati.(v) MeditationSilent meditation 15-20 minutes.143

ConclusionFrom the above facts it is clear that obesity is life styledisease. It decreases the auto lmmune system of human body andproduce lot of complication in life. But yogic life style, specificasanas, pranayamas will stimulate auto human system of body as aresult of that reduce the complication of obesity state and theircomplications because although yogic practices has been more of aprotective techniques for obesity.

References1. Stanley Alstead, Text book of medical treatment.2. Malshe prakash, Yoga book for doctors.3. Gupta surendra nath, Sabhyata ke Rog .4. Singh R G, Current status of Yoga therapy.5. K.D.T, Pharmacology.6. Gala D.R, Nature cure for common diseases.7. Niraj nagendra, Rogo ki sahi chikitsa.8. Souvenir, Symposium on Yoga and health current trends,Indian Academy of Yoga, BHU.9. Das gupta S.N, Yoga philosophy.10. Verma Vinod, Ayurveda for life.144

Chapter-15The Spirtual and Scientific aspect ofSurya NamaskarIntroductionSurya Namaskar is a well known vital method within theyogic practices. Its versatility and application make it one of themost useful methods to induce a healthy, vigorous and active lifeand at the same time prepare for spiritual awakening and theresultant expansion of awareness. In recent years more and morepeople have moved away from mere ritual and are turning toYogasana method for exploring and improving their inner lives.Through the need for techniques to enhance physical, mental andspiritual evolution has been recognized. The fast pace of modernliving makes it difficult for even the most determined individual toimplement Yoga practice. And it is practice, which is the mostimportant and fundamental issue in terms of our betterment.Surya Namaskar is an integral part of the yogic approachand can be easily integrated into our daily lives for it requires only15 to 25 minutes of practice daily to obtain remarkably fast andbeneficial results. Surya Namaskar is a practice whose origins datefar back to the earliest epochs of history, when man first become

aware of a spiritual power within himself, reflected in the material145universe. The awareness is the foundation of Yoga. SuryaNamaskar, meaning “salutation to the sun”, can be seen as a formof worship of the sun, amend all that it represents on the micro andmacrocosmic levels. In yogic terms this indicates that the practiceof Surya Namaskar awakens the solar aspects of man’s nature andreleases this virtual energy for the development of higherawareness. This can be realized by the practice of Surya Namaskareach morning as well as being fine way to pay tribute to the sourceof creation and life.Surya Namaskar is a series of twelve phyiscal postures.These alternating backward and forward bending asanas flex andstretch the spinal column and limbs through their maximum range.The series gives such a profound stretch to the whole of the bodyfew other forms of exercise can be compared with it.Synchronizing the breathing principle followed is inhalation duringbackward bending postures, due to expansion of the chest, andexhalation with forward bending postures, due to compression ofthe chest and abdomen.The ideal time to practice Surya Namaskar is at sunrise, themost peaceful time of the day, when the atmosphere is full of thesun’s ultraviolet rays, so important for the body. Make a habit ofrising early, answering the call of nature, taking a bath, andpracticing Surya Namaskar. Whenever possible, practice in theopen air, wearing light and loose clothing to allow the skin tobreathe and to absorb the sun’s energy.146

Sun rays and its EffectSun rays affect human body by following methods:-Photo Chemical Reaction.Thermal or Heating Effect.Photo Synthesis.The following reactions take place in the human body whenultraviolet energy strikes it:-(i) Calcium metabolism is profoundly improved by increased bloodcontent.(ii) Bacteria in the body are killed by the direct action of the UVrays and indirectly by increased local and systemic resistance.(iii) Toxins in the body are rendered inert.(iv) Normal Chemical balances in the body are restored.(v) Cellular imbalance in the blood is corrected if UV isadministered in suitable doses.(vi) Fat element in the blood that was altered in character bydisease are restored to normal size through Brownian movement.(Brownian movement is the random movement of small particlessuspended in a fluid caused by the statistical pressure fluctuationsover the practical.)(vii) Oxygen absorption is increased following UV radiation ofauto transfused blood.147

Techniques of Surya Namaskar

Each round of Suryanamaskar is done, after the utterance of‘Omkar’ with the appropriate “Bija” Mantra, along with thecorresponding name of Sun God in the following step.Each stage of Suryanamaskar is accompanied by regulationof breath. The 12 steps of the suryanamaskar are as follows:Steps 1Stand erect with the legs together and palms together. Takethe hands above the head and bend the trunk backwards. Here,inhale fully.Steps 2Bend the body to the front and touch the knees by theforehead. Keep the palms on the floor on either side of the legs.Exhale fully.Steps 3In the stage, kick the right leg back, take the left kneeforward, look up and inhale,press the buttock close to the heel.Steps 4In the next step, take the left leg also back resting only onpalms and toes; keep the body straight from head to toes inclinedto the ground at about 30 degree. Here exhale completely.Step 5Now, bend at the knee and rest the knees on the floorwithout altering the positions of the palms and toes. Rest the148forehead on the ground. In this position inhale while movingbackwards and then exhale completely. Do not stretch the ankles.Step 6Without moving the hands and toes, come forward on thechest and rest the forehead. in this position sastanga Namaskar,forehead, chest, palms, knees and feet are the eight organs that willbe touching the ground. The buttocks will be raised up. Stay in‘Breath-out’ condition. (Bahya Kumbhaka).Step 7Inhale; raise the head and trunk making the spine concaveupwards without changing the position of the hands and feet.Keep the knee off the ground.Step 8Exhale, raise the buttocks, push the head down and have acomplete each with the heels touching the ground and palms on thefloorStep 9Same as 5th step. Inhale and exhale.149Step 10Inhale back bring the right leg in between the two handsand in line with them. Arch the back concave upwards as in step 3Step 11Exhale and bring the foot forward next to the right foot andtouch the knee with forehead as in 2.Step 12Inhale. comp up, stand erect with hands along the body

relax.

Effect of Surya Namaskar on different system ofbodySurya Namaskar practice interacts with the physical organsof the body directly, by applying pressure, massaging, stretchingand generally toning up and supporting internal tissue structures.This aids the eliminative functions as well as stimulating nervousenergy. It enhances our wellbeing.

Respiratory SystemIn Surya Namaskar a deep rhythmic breathing process issynchronized with each movement, which completely empties thelungs of all, traces of stale gas and refills them with fresh, clean,oxygenated air. All the pockets of the lungs are expandedstimulated and then cleaned. The oxygen content of the blood is150increased, which improves the overall vitality and oxygenation ofthe cells and tissue of the body and brain. Sluggishness andlethargy are rapidly overcome. This practice is also good for theprevention of diseases such as tuberculosis, which develop in thelittle used, stagnant regions of the lungs.

Circulatory SystemThe regular practice of Surya Namaskar improves flow ofblood, to speeds up the elimination of morbid matter andintroduces fresh oxygen and nutrient of all the cells, and generalcirculation is improved. The cardiac muscles are strengthened.Microcirculation to the heart is increased and reducing the chancesof heart attack. Sluggish circulation, cold hands and feet, bloodvessel diseases and general fatigue can also be eliminated. Thecirculation of lymph, which is prime importance in fluid balanceand in combating infections, is toned, the body gains an increasedresistance to infections, and a better ability to heal.

Digestive SystemThe alternate stretching and compressing movements ofSurya Namaskar tone the whole digestive system by thoroughlymassaging all the abdominal viscera. This not only enhanceselimination but also increases the digestive fire, promoting ahealthy appetite, and complete and rapid assimilation of food.151

SkinThe skin is the important and Largest body organ and apartfrom holding the body together serves to regulate bodytemperature, as well as excreting waste matter throughperspiration. When there is an excess of poisonous matter in theblood, it comes out through the skin in the form of boils, rashesand pimples. As Surya Namaskar produces perspiration, speeds upcirculation and enhances the elimination of wastes through thedigestive and urinary systems, it cleanses and endows thepractitioner with a clean, glowing complexion, which is animportant sign of health. Many skin disease caused bysubcutaneous toxin deposits, such as pimples and eczema, can beremoved. Bad odours from the body are eliminated, and the overall

circulation of blood to the skin is improved.When Surya Namaskar is practiced in the early morninghours while facing the rising sun, ultraviolet light rays areabsorbed through the skin. At sunrise, these rays are at theirgreatest intensity and are thought to be very beneficial for healthyas well as being responsible for vitamin D production.

Nervous SystemIn the twelve movements of Surya Namaskar, the spinalcolumn is systematically stretched and compressed to the152maximum extent, stimulating circulation in the whole spinal cord,and all nerve plexuses. Surya Namaskar tones nerve flows bystimulating internal organs. It stretches organs. It stretches nerves,work on the spine and enhances prans, which activates braincenters. The whole nervous system is activated and seems to wakeup.

The Endocrine SystemThe endocrine glands are the most vital and mysterious ofall systems of the body. They play an overall role in thecoordination and integration of all physiological process and yetvery little are actually known about them. The main function of theendocrine glands is the production and secretion of hormones,chemical substances are released into the bloodstream and carriedthroughout the body to act upon particular organs.

Pituitary GlandThe pituitary gland is master gland of human body. It hasmany hormonal secretions ,which control the body’s growth anddevelopment. By increasing the flow of blood to the head andthrough its effects on the nervous system. Surya Namaskarstimulate the hypothalamus, which regulates the pituitary action.The practice of Surya Namaskar thereby has a direct and beneficialeffect on this vital centre and the whole body.153

Pineal GlandThe pineal gland is a situated in the brain. Yogic Sciencestates that it has a vital function and acts as connecting linkbetween the different levels of awareness above and beyond thephysical plane.Surya Namaskar plays an ideal role in the maintenance ofthis important gland.

PancreasThe Pancreas is located behind the stomach at the level ofthe solar plexus. Parts of this important gland produce the hormoneinsulin, which controls the body’s ability to store and utilize sugar.Surya Namaskar compresses the abdominal organs, which pressonto the pancreas especially during backward bending inbhujangasana.

ConclusionFrom the above facts it is clear that Surya Namaskar is anancient knowledge of this country which provides physical andspiritual health by affecting different activities of human body

based on body, mind and breath concept.154

References1. Sampuranand, Yogas philosophy.2. Singh Surendra, Introduction of Yogs.3. Gupta Rameshwardas, Yogs Rashmian.4. Lisbeth Andrewvar –Yoga self thought.5. Swami Kavalayanand, Asanas.6. Swamiram, Yoga Psychology.155

Chapter-14Special Situation in modern life inrelation to problems of infusing of Yogicpractices in day to day lifeIntroductionMan has entered the 21st century with a lot of problems. Inthis modern age of advanced technology, communication,electronic gadgets, the level of facilities available for ourconvenience has increased but it has some how also lead to anincrease in our problems related to health, life and emotions.Human life today is more stressful and problem nature now a day.It is a universally known and accepted fact that Yoga has a solutionto all problems of man be it mental, physical or spiritual but onedoes not have time to incorporate Yoga in present day lifestyle.One does not have time for self or may be there is lack oftime management and self management. Materialisticachievements are more important for their physical and spiritualgains. There is lack of will power and mental peace. Power ofconcentration is diminishing amongst all states of life. Our foodand living habits are fast becoming westernized from traditional.Man is the most precious and enlightened creation of nature. Thereis great similarity between the constitution of man and nature so it156becomes necessary that human life style should be in accordancewith nature.1 However in present modern life style, man is driftingaway from nature. Western culture has invaded our life style in adrastic manner. Our language, culture, tradition, education, foodhabits, life style, psyche all are seen to be influenced by westernculture.2Man is running blindly after material pleasures and is readyto pay any price for it. One is so engrossed in attaining success inlife that he is ready to take any path even if it is immoral andagainst principles.In this world of cut throat competition man does not evenhave time for himself, One does not have time to think about hisown identity as a human being and life has become totallymechanized. Discarding the need of his own body and emotions,man is just engaged in making more and more money. In this lifeof blind race love, tolerance, peace, happiness are of the greatestneed, but these feelings have become meaningless despite their

importance in human life.3Modern life style has become a means of attaining materialgains and pleasures. Such circumstances have given rise tophysical, mental, social and spiritual deformities. Due to lack ofself management, one is limited to a narrow spectrum and becomesself centered due to which Yogic practices cannot be infused inday today life.4157The level of health in general is decreasing in the society. Itis these situations that discourage Yogic practices from becoming apart of our day today life.

Factors that limit Yogic Practice in day to daymodern lifeOn viewing modern life on a higher perspective, we can seethat it is a mere medium to attain material and physical gains.Health and peace do not find priority in modern life. Money is theprime need of most people. To actually prove utility and meaningof life one has to remain healthy and happy. Only a healthy bodywith a healthy mind can make use of physical and materialpleasures provided to him and he can find the true meaning of life.Certain factors that inhibit Yogic practices in modern life can beenumerated5

(i) PeaceOne cannot include Yoga in day to day life till he isinternally and externally at peace with himself.6 The structure ofmodern life is such that there will always be lack of peace. Intoday’s life ambitions are unlimited and when the percentage ofambitions is high, percentage of peace will always be low becauseambitions are achieved by giving away peace of mind. When thereis no peace there is no concentration and hence no inclinationtowards Yoga.7158(ii) Time ManagementTo be successful in life, one has to learn to manage timebecause it is the most important requirement of success. A personwho has learnt to manage his time is more successful than others inall spheres of life. Unfortunately in this rat race, very few peoplerealize the value of time and its proper management. Timemanagement has great importance in Yoga. If there is lack of time,Yoga cannot be practiced properly and correctly.8 Yam Niyam,should be followed along with time management and lead to Yogicasanas. In absence of above ingredients, asanas are reduced tomere physical exercise and this practice is gaining more popularitythese days.Asanas should be done at sunrise starting with sukshmakriyas to warm up the body. If one begins the day at sunrise withYogic asanas, he feels fresh, energetic and happy throughout theday. But in modern practice, people stay awake till late night andget up late in the morning only to start a busy day. In this case, dueto lack of time management, Yoga has no meaning in life.9

(iii) Lacking or fulfillment in Life

A person may either live a life that is always lacking insomething or a life that is fulfilled. A person whose life is lacking,always needs something or the other. Once he gets something, hewants something else and is never satisfied. A person who lives afulfilled life is content and happy with whatever he has his life is159content and happy with whatever he has. This life is consistentwhich is important for a meaningful and worthy life.Present life is mostly unfulfilled for many. There is alwaysa constant need for something or the other and is always runningafter something or others to fulfill his needs. All the efforts arevasted to attain material pleasures and one is left with no willpower to do any other thing.10

(iv) Physical capacityTo attain physical and material things, a person works veryhard and wasting all of his time and effort on this. It is strange thatpeople are lost in the material world and running directionless. Lifehas become artificial and mechanized and full of external show off.This is definitely affecting the physical and mental capacity of aperson. A person has no time to think about the needs of body andmind. He can work 12-18 hrs. for the sake of money but cannotinvest even ½ an hour for the well-being of his body. A personwho over burdens his body with stressful work from the age of 20-40, his body becomes exhausted and old age is painful due toinfestation of many diseases.Continuous labour makes the body internally weak andhollow and after crossing 40, immunity becomes low. At this timediseases start affecting the body. Unhealthy body cannot get reliefeven by Yoga. If at this stage, Yogic asanas are performedforcefully, it does more harm than any benefit to the body.11

160(v) Irregular dietDiet is the basic epicenter of life. Diet is the main prerequisite of Yoga and healthy living. In Yogic philosophy, food ismainly of three types (Satvik, Rajasik, Tamasik). There is a greatrelationship between food and Yogic life. The type of food we eatreflects in our habits and personality. Food has a great import onbody and mind. Modern day foods have high quantity of chemicalsand products which cause irritation, high blood pressure, acidityetc. They are not properly cooked and lay more stress on taste oftongue rather than whole body. Due to this a person becomesirritable, and there is emotional imbalance. Thus in this state thereis lack of concentration and will power and a person cannot takeinterest in Yoga.12

(vi) Environmental FactorsIn present day life, luxury and advancement create anenvironment which is not appropriate for Yogic practices.Tolerance, politeness, idealism, truthfulness, honesty friendship,compassion, brotherhood – all these qualities are on a decline insociety. People have lost faith in these qualities. Present dayenvironment of the world is becoming negative with degenerationof moral and social values which is promoting wrong things and

ideologies to prosper. These things prevent people from acceptingYogic practices as part of their daily life.13

(vii) Lack of Yogic education161Presently there is lack of Yogic education. People are notaware of the benefits of Yogic philosophy and asanas. Somepeople associate Yoga to be a part of a particular religion or castewhich is not true. Yoga is a way of life, meant for all people. It isabove the boundaries of caste or religion. It is important to educatepeople with the physical, mental, spiritual benefits of Yoga. Due tolack of proper knowledge many people keep Yoga out of theirdaily life 19

(viii) Harmful effects of YogaMany people try to perform Yoga by watching T.V. orreading books. It is not correct to perform Yogic practices inabsence of a trained instructor. People think that all diseases can becured by just doing asanas without understanding the truephilosophy of Yoga, which leads to harmful effects on body. Suchpractices should be discouraged altogether. 15

162

ConclusionIn the light of above facts it is clear that modern life givesmore stress on luxury and material pleasures and these becomepriority for most people leading to an imbalanced life, full ofdeformities. Peace, time management, proper food, behavior,health are lacking in life distracting a person from walking on apath of Yogic principles and one is not able to incorporate Yoga inday to day life.

References1. Neeraj Nagendra, Prakratik Chikitsa Avam Yoga, Nirogiduniya Publication, Jaipur, 2002, p. 23.2. Verma, Vinod, Ayurveda for life, S.B. Prakashan Indore,1998, p. 58.3. Muni Dharmesh, Self managemt, Jain Vishava BharatiUniversity Publication, Raj, 2006 p. 110.4. Bhagwandas, The Science of Self, Kashi VidyapithPublication, Varanasi, 1966 p. 106.5. S. Vishavnathan, Principles of Yoga Theropy, AnnamalaiUniversity Publication, 2004, p. 201.6. Maurya T.R, Peace, Manu Publication, Surat, 1965, p. 10.7. Das Gupta S.N, Yoga Philosophy, Motilal BanarsidasPublication, Delhi, 1996 p. 11.8. Sri. Anand, The Complete book of Yoga, orient paper163backs Publication, New Delhi, 1993, p. 16.9. Muni Dharmesh – Science of living Preksha meditation andYoga, Jain Vishav Bharati Publication, Raj, 2006, p 98.10. Sharma J.N, Yogasana, Aur Pranayama, Maruti PublicationMeerut, 2002, p. 21.11. Singh Surendra, Yoga. An Introduction, Bharat BookCompany Lucknow, 1999 p. 52.

12. K.Kuruvila, Psychiatry, N.R. Brother Publication Indore,2003, p. 50.13. S. Swami Nathan, Food and Nutrition, N.R. BrotherPublication, Indore p. 2614. Jindal, Rakesh, Prakratik Ayurvigyan, Arogya SewaPrakashan, U.P 2002, p. 20215. Suresh, Yoga and mental health, New Bharatiya BookCorporation, Delhi, 2002, p. 5616. Gupta, Shankar, Science of Yoga, Health publication,Kolkata, 2001, p. 23164

Chapter-15Importance of Yogic lifestyle for SchoolchildrenIntroductionThis saying very aptly reflects the importance of children inour lives. Upbringing of children therefore has to be verydisciplined and proper to make them good human beings to thatthey prove to be productive for the society. If a plant is rootedfirmly to the ground it will branch out into a tree that gives shelterto many living beings. Similarly if a child is brought up withdiscipline, culture and values he will grow up into a good,mentally, physically, socially and healthy human being. In modernsociety with increase in stress, violence, disasters, Yoga comes outas the best remedy and tool to discipline one’s life.Yoga teaches the way of life in all aspects like, eating,habits, cleanliness, self management etc. In a student life it is veryimportant that he develops good habits.165

Role of Yoga in good food habitsAccording to Yoga food is of following three types –Satvik, Rajsik and Tamsik.(i) SatvikSatvik food is positive, non-irritant, pure, agreeable,nourishing and easily digestible. It promotes purity of mind andinner strength and is conducive to higher thinking and intelligence.Keeps body healthy and mind at peace.(ii) RajsikRajsik food is negative and irritant. It comprises of heavyproteins, fats that are difficult to digest and assimilate. This type offood excites emotions, causes disease, obesity and restricts the soulto material achievements.(iii) TamsikTamsik food is devitalising and stale. It comprises mostlyof processed and tinned foods. Food if reheated several timeslooses its qualities and harms the systems.Yoga prescribes a balanced diet that comprises of pure, light andnutritious food. It should have cereals like wheat, pulses- likemoong, green leafy vegetables cooked in mustard or groundnut oil.Milk and dairy products like curd, mattha, paneer should also be

included in diet. More stress should be laid on consuming colouredvegetables and fruits which are a good source of vitamins e.g.brinjal, apples, citrus fruits, banana etc.166Children can also have dry fruits like almonds and walnuts.Spices should be avoided as they irritate the system and causeanger and anxiety. Tea and coffee are acidic and their consumptionshould be restricted to minimum.Children should refrain from eating junk food like pizzas,burgers, noodles, cold drinks, confectionary items as these areharmful for the system as well as for teeth, bones etc. These foodsuse refined products which if used excessively results is obesityand diabetes later in life. The child gradually loses interest inpositive activities and becomes irritable "A Healthy body houses ahealthy mind". So one has to be physically fit to compete and excelin life.

Role of Physical ExerciseIt is important for children going to school to involve insome kind of physical activity, so that they can grow. CertainYogic asanas can be very good for children. Pranayam purifies thesystem by supplying fresh air and oxygen. Anulom – Viloma helpsin strengthening memory and also improves eye sight, Tadasanhelps in increase of height, Dhanurasan helps in general fitness andSurya Namaskar promotes overall well being of the body andmind. If started from young age, Yogasan can help children to stayfit and keep away from many diseases like- blood pressure,diabetes, spondilytis in the future when they grow up.167

Role of meditationTo keep the mind free from stress and enhance connection,meditation can prove to be very beneficial for students. It is notnecessary for one to try very hard for hours. Just a few minutesdevoted daily by chanting some or imaging something can help inmeditation. Even looking at the night sky or watching birds quietlycan relieve stress from the students mind, after which he feels freshand full of positive thoughts and energy.

Role of Hygienic PracticesPersonal hygiene is very important for a positive approachin life for everyone. Especially students getting up early in themorning, cleaning teeth, practicing good toilet habits, bathingdaily, cutting nails, keeping hair neatly, going to school timely andneatly dressed, keeping ones belongings carefully, eating meals intime etc are all part of good behaviour. A child who follow yogicprinciples is able to easily discipline his life and make a positiveimpact in the life of others also.168

Impact of Yogic life style on the mind and soul ofchildrenYogic philosophy not only lays stress on physical wellbeingbut also on mental and spiritual fitness. In modern timesmany things like violence, corruption, abuse, etc. have a negative

impact in the delicate minds of children. The various films,television programmes, cartoon shows etc, depict a lot of violencewhich makes the child aggressive there after grows up into animpulsive and violent individual. By adopting Yoga in life youngchildren can control their minds, and keep themselves relaxed.Yoga gives inner power and strength to discard the evils of societyand not get affected by negative things like- violence, corruption,drugs abuse, anger, stress etc.

ConclusionIn modern life, it is very important to guide the children ata young age, to grow up into mentally, physically, spirituallyhealthy human being who are useful to the society. Yoga serves asa important tool to groom the personality of an individual byshowing the way to a healthy and prosperous life. Young minds arelike clay- they can be molded into any shape and form. So it isimportant to guide them through yogic asanas philosophy andmeditation towards a bright and successful future which will169brighter the future of this country as youth are the foundationpillars of a growing nation.Despite the utility of Yoga in all fields of life one thingshould be clearly kept in mind, that is, Yoga should be practicedunder proper guidance of a trained instructor. Over doing it ordoing it incorrectly can lead to a lot of problems. The after effectsare drastic and the instructor should know the need of the students.Able guidance is a must for proper development of mind and body.All asanas are not meat for all people. Different age groups need topractice different asanas. Also the physical and mental status of thepeople has to be considered. Person suffering from any kind ofmental or physical illness should be treated accordingly. At studentlevel, certain philosophy of Yoga cannot be taught like samadhietc. as they are not meant for young and tender minds. Studentshave to be dealt with differently. They have to be taught moralslike truth, duty dedication, love, sympathy, brotherhood etc. Ahealthy mind and body will make a healthy individual and manysuch individual make a healthy nation.Children are the future of the nation. So it is very importantto take care of their upbringing, nutrition and development.Incorporating Yoga in daily life of school children can help todevelop then into physically, mentally, emotionally and spirituallystrong individuals.170

Reference1. Garde, R.V., Principles and Practice of Yoga therapy,Publication Taraporevala Bombay, 1972.2. Bernard, T .H. Theos, Hatha Yoga, Publication ColumbiaUniversity Press, New York 1944.3. Brena, S.F., Yoga and Medicine, Publication Julian Press,New York, 1972.4. Ray, S. Dutta, Yogic Exercises, Publication JaypeeBrothers, New Delhi, 1998.5. Kumar. N, Prakritic Chikitsa Lvam Yoga, Publication

Nirogi Duniya, Jaipur, 2002.6. Hewitt James, The Complete Yoga Book, PublicationRandom House, 1983.7. Pandiamani, B.K., Principles of Yoga therapy, social skillsand living value based education, Annamalai UniversityPublication, 2004.8. Vishvanathan S., Science of Yoga, Annamalai UniversityPublication, Tamilnadu, 2004.171

Chapter-16Importance of Yoga in the development ofIdeal Life Style: with Special reference ofUniversity StudentIntroductionHuman body is one of the miraculous creation of thenature. The human body is not merely a bundle of bones and fleshbut it has a wonderful collection of knowledge. The varioussystems of our body should have essential. Those who are havinggood functioning of all the activities like respiration, digestion,excretion and nutrition, then it is very helpful for the developmentof an ideal life style and the possibility of the end of disease fromour life. Finally there is the attainment of a healthy life and theperson becomes the owner of a healthy and an attractive life. Allthe above qualities are essential for a student life because it is astage in which the base of the development of life is made.If the above sited qualities are there in a student life and ifhis life is balanced and controlled then the possibility of a goodand a real meaningful life gets increased. In today's time of thegood behaviour, thoughts, values are practiced- If variouspranayama and asanas are done correctly then an ideal life style172can be developed in student life because of which student’spersonal life, family health, social and national health, will be onthe way to progress and student life will be safe from variousdiseases like obesity, high B.P., diabetes, pressure, absence ofsleep, depression, diseases of joints etc.

The 21 Century and the LifestyleIn this century man is touching the great heights ofdevelopment. Every day there are various new discoveries andinventions. Man has measured the depth of the sea and the heightsof the moon but the man is slowly getting far away from his realself. We neither tried nor are trying to know ourselves. We havewasted all our energy for the attainment of materialistic needs. Weare so much engrossed in attaining these worldly materialisticthings that we have no time for ourselves, resulting to which ourlife is getting trapped into stress and worries.By practising the unnatural life style we are slowly spoilingour health. We are inviting, various diseases. This unnaturalenvironment is greatly influencing the society, our family membersand also it is having a very bad effect on our student's lives. Young

power is being mocked. It is very essential for one to have peace inone's life, home and family and also society, for attainingknowledge and learning, because during the student life are sowedthe seed of their future life's development.173

Disturbed daily life routinesStudents life should be balanced and controlled so that inhis life, the four viewpoint samta, mamta, namrata and dakshtashould be created habits. Due to the given wrong habits, instead ofdevelopment of life, the value of life and health of the student isbeing mocked at.a) DietWestern life style has attacked our life's various and nearlyevery areas. Language, education, health, religion, thoughts,thinking and eating habits nearly everything is completelyengrossed in western effects. Resulting to this, younger generationhas got swayed away from their real and main aim. If we take diet,as an example, which is the basic need, throughout which our

whole life revolves. Lord Krishna also said 'vUukfn HkoafrHkwfru' meaning-the existence of all living organism is due todiet. Due to diet our behaviour and thoughts are greatly influencedand changed. It is recreated. To be called well mannered, wellcultured, modern, developed, the so called fast foods aredestroying our national health. This is quite thought provoking.Modern scientist also follow that if internal microbiologicalenvironment is strong and healthy then our vital capacity getsstronger resulting that we remain healthy. Our internalmicrobiological environment gets polluted due to the wrong food174habits. The unnutritional fast food plays important role in pollutingthe environment of the stomach. The highly enjoyed and lipsmacking fast food is poisoning our whole society also giving birthto various diseases. Fast food like- burger, hot dog, noodles, candy,pastry, pizza, toffee, cold drink etc are used. All these are intenselyattractive, intoxicating and tasteful poisons. In order to lead a wellbalanced and controlled life it is very necessary for the students toabandon the fast foods and increase the intake of living food.b) Wrong sitting & standing postureIn modern lifestyle there are some mistake that haveaccumulated due to which students are getting away from an ideallifestyle and disease are accumulating in the body. Due to wrongposture the muscles and the shape of our body gets badly affected.Wrong posture further affects our various body systems making aplace and a suitable environment for the birth of disease in thebody.All the parts of our body are connected with back area orthe back bone and due to wrong posture the back bone cannotremain the way it should be due to which various diseases relatedto back begin to develop and affect the health.175c) Disturbed sleep

Sleep is one of the important part of our life, but in themodern 21 century, there is no rule for sleep, regardless of howimportant sleep is for the body. Due to deep sleep, the braindevelops an alpha state of mind. During sleep the filtration ofwaste material from our kidneys are enhanced. During sleep theexcess heat of our body is emitted out and the blood pressure andthe body temperature are controlled and balanced. Sleep is abiggest remedy for gaining back our wasted energy level i.e.rejuvenation of the body and gaining the vital capacity.d) Unbalanced water intakeOur body is made up of 2/3 of water, males have 65%-75%water in the body. Blood has 83% of water, bones have 22%, brainand muscles have 75% of water. A normal person has 33 to 55% ofwater in his body. From the total amount of water in take in ourbody, 98% of water is used for excretion of waste and harmfulmaterials from the body. 40% in the urine, 35% is emitted outthrough sweat, 20% through faces, saliva and salts are emitted outof the body 2% of water is used for correct functioning of bloodand other parts. So we must take the water in abundant quantity.e) Neck throat competitionStudents without realising their ability, are constantlyrunning in the blind race of achieving success. This instead brings176failure and gives birth to mental tension and disorders and therebyincreasing the possibility of mental diseases.f) Pessimistic view of thinkingOptimistic thinking of the student, encourage him towardshis aim. In order to achieve success one has to be successful inhimself and not by running or chasing for success.The feeling of jealousy, anger, selfishness, ruins thestudent's life. Thus in order to achieve ones aim we have to leavethe wrong and pessimistic thinking and acquire the balanced, safelifestyle and thereby try to achieve the aim.g) Intake of Intoxicating substancesThe whole human race knows that alcohol is very harmfulfor one’s health. By use of alcohol our mind and liver are veryadversely affected. This causes the most dangerous disease of livercalled liver cirrhosis and result of this disease is death. Besides allthis, using alcohol causes physical and mental disease called CarraCopus syndrome, acute shortage of vitamin B and thymene,memory loss, the shrinking of mind etc. Cigarette has 100 types ofpoison which include- Nicotine, Pyrodin, Pycholine, cholidine,Marshgas, Cynogin, Perforate, Amonia, Carbolic Acid, Uric Acid,Carbon Monoxide, A-Choline, Ayoline are the main. There are 19types of harmful substances like Perforal and Polyneum which areemitted out, which harm the sensory parts of the brain.177Pyrodin causes dryness, anemia and Cancer. It also affectsadversely like causing cough, asthma, skin disease, acidity,paralysis, hysteria, sleep disorder, bad eyesight, cataract and otherrespiratory disorder, heart disease etc. 'Bidi' is more harmful forbody than cigarette. Tobacco gives birth to mouth cancer. All these

things are making a place in the lifestyle of the students which areharmful for their personal and social lifestyle.h) Biological clock and human bodyThe biological clock affects the emotional and mental stateof the person but the imbalanced life style affects the biologicalclock and also the health. Disturbed and uncontrolled life style likebeing awake till late night, watching late night T.V. working atnight, awake at the time of sleep and sleeping at the time ofworking time, staying in the bed after being awake due to laziness,not taking food when hungry, being in the haste and worry, allthese disturb body clock.But we can make our life controlled, balanced and wellmaintained and can move towards development. But for this it isnecessary that we go according to our body clock or the biologicalclock without disturbing it.i) Modern Life Style diseasesDue to the modern life style person's health is decreasingday by day. Physical and mental disorders are increasing and a178large population in being affected by modern life style invitingvarious diseases.Present day life style disease include high B.P., sleepdisorder, diabetes, joint diseases, asthama, obesity, tension,depression, anxiety are the main and there are not much methodsof cure for it. The society and the students have been affected bythese diseases. Then by correct diet and life style , practising Yoga,pranayam and meditation in our life, we can cure as well as we canbe safe from all these diseases.By developing the concept of Yoga and disease freelifestyle, we can develop the concept of over all health anddevelopment in student’s life. By which students can achieve theiraim and can be the owner of a successful life.

SummaryHuman life is miraculous. Those who are healthy withhealthy thoughts can only lead an ideal life style. For all the abovequalities, student life is one of the basic pillars. Nature has itscertain universal laws and living according to these natural laws iscalled an ideal lifestyle. The various parts of Yoga play a veryimportant role in presenting an ideal lifestyle. For leading Yogiclifestyle Yama, Niyam, Aasana, Pranayam, Pratyahar, Dharna,Dhyan, Samadhi and yogic diet are the main components.179

References1. Garde, R.V., Principles and Practice of Yoga therapy-Publication, Taraporeval Bombay, 1972.2. Bernard, T .H. Theos, Hatha Yoga, Publication- ColumbiaUniversity Press, New York, 1944.3. Brena, S.F., Yoga and Medicine, Publication- Julian Press,New York, 1972.4. Ray, S. Dutta, Yogic Exercises, Publication- JaypeeBrothers, New Delhi, 1998.

5. Kumar. N, Prakratic Chikitsa vam Yoga, Publication-Nirogi Duniya, Jaipur, 2002.6. Hewitt James, The Complete Yoga Book- Publication,Random House, 1983.7. Pandiamani, B.K., Principles of Yoga therapy, social skillsand living value based education, Annamalai UniversityPublication, 2004.8. Vishvanathan S., Science of Yoga, Annamalai UniversityPublication, Tamilnadu, 2004.9. Gupta, S.P., Sabhyata Ke Rog, Surabhi Publication,Lucknow.10. Singh, S.P. Life Style & Disease, H.N. Publication,Lucknow.180

Chapter-17Management of dietary fats for healthylivingFats are the most concentrated form of energy and one ofthe important component of our diet i.e. calories, amino acids, fattyacids, minerals and vitamins. Its energy value is 9 K. cal/gram,which is more than twice of Carbohydrates and proteins which isonly 4 K cal/gram. The dietary fats that we consume may besaturated, unsaturated or trans fats. Saturated and trans fats are themost harmful type of fats, as they get deposited in the bodycausing various ailments including heart attack and Cancer.Unsaturated fats are both monounsaturated andPolyunsaturated. Both of these are needed for proper functioningof our body. However, polyunsaturated fats are needed in our bodyto maintain cell membrane, for making prostaglandins, whichregulate processes including blood clotting and inflammation. It isalso needed to enable fat soluble vitamins A, D, E and K to beabsorbed from food and for regulating body cholesterolmetabolism. These fats are the parent source for essential fattyacids.181

Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs)From fats eaten down to stomach we synthesize our ownfat, cholesterol and various phospholipids. In addition, humans cansynthesize saturated and monounsaturated fats from other sourcesin the diet, therefore, they are not necessary to be added in the diet.However, following fatty acids can not be synthesized by our bodyfrom any other fatty acids or carbohydrate and must beincorporated directly into the diet. Hence these are called Essentialfatty acids. These are:-(i) Omega-6 fatty acids(ii) Omega-3 fatty acidsAll these EFA are unsaturated; that is, have double bonds.Balanced proportion of EFAs in the body actually helpburn excess calories instead of depositing them as fatty tissues andalso act as solvents to help the body dissolve and remove hard fatsdeposited by long-term bad dietary habits.

Although the body needs both omega-3s omega-6s tothrive. Most people consume far more Omega 6s than Omega 3s.Hardly a day goes by, however, without reports of another healthbenefit associated with omega-3s. For this reason, many expertsrecommend consuming a better balance of these two EFAs.182

Types of Omega-3 EFAsKey Omega-3 fatty acids include eicosapentaenoic acid(EPA) and docosahexanoic acid (DHA), both found primarily inoily cold-water fish such as tuna, salmon and mackerel. Aside fromfresh seaweed, a staple of many cultures, plant foods rarely containEPA or DHA.However, a third Omega-3, called alpha-linolenic acid(ALA), is found primarily in dark green leafy vegetables hemp andbasil oils, and certain vegetable oils. Although ALA has differenteffects on the body than EPA and DHA do, the body has enzymesthat can convert ALA to EPA. All three are important to humanhealth.

Characteristics of Essential Fatty acids (EFAs)Omega-3, EFAsHelp in prevention of:-i. Coronary heart diseasesii. Sudden death from heart arrhythmiasiii. Canceriv. Rheumatoid arthritisv. Slow down postmenopausal bone lossvi. Modulation of chronic diseasesvii. Normal functioning during growth and developmentviii. Hypertension183ix. Type-2 diabetesx. Renal diseasexi. Reduces hypercholesterolemia atherosclerosisxii. Ischemic heart diseasexiii. Hyper lipidemiaxiv. Increases elasticity of arterial systemxv. Improves arterial functionOmega-6 EFAsHigh intake of W-6 fatty acids shifts the physiologic stateto one that is characterized by increases in:-i. Blood viscosityii. Vasospasmiii. Vasoconstrictioniv. Decreases in bleeding timev. Plus numerous other scourges of modern times trappingone in a spiral of diseasevi. Inflammatory conditionvii. Depressionviii. Eczematous and other skin derangement’six. Obesityx. Acne

xi. Chronic viral fatiguexii. Arthritis and other inflammatory conditions184xiii. Heart and circulatory derangementsxiv. Immune system breakdownxv. Cancer

Sources of EFAsMarine sourcesAtlantic salmon and other fatty marine sources preferablycold-water fish, including herring (both Atlantic and Pacific),sardines, Atlantic halibut, bluefish, tuna and Atlantic mackerel.The American Heart Association recommends that people can eattuna or salmon at least twice a week.As a reasonable substitute (or even an occasionalalternative) for fresh fish, commercial fish oil capsules areavailable containing omega-3s such as DHA and EPA.Wild gameSurprisingly, venison and buffalo are both good sources ofomega-3s and make a healthy choice for people craving for meat.Plant SourcesCanola oil, hemp seed oil, walnuts, and leafy greenvegetables such as purslance are all good sources of the plantbasedomega-3 fatty acids.185

References1. Simopoulos AP. Omega-3 fatty acids in health and diseaseand in growth and development, Am J clin Nutr 54:438-463, 1991.2. Salem N, Simopoulos AP, Galli C, Lagarde M, Knapp HR,eds. Fatty acids and lipids from cell biology to humandisease. 31(suppl), S1-S326, 1996.3. de lorgeril M, Renaud S, Mamelle N, et al. Effect of aMediterranean type of diet on the rate of cardiovascularcomplications in patients with coronary artery disease.Insights into the effects of certain nutriments. J Am CollCardiol 28:1103-8, 1996.4. Simopoulos P. Essential Fatty Acids in Health and ChronicDisease. Presentation, The Third International Congress onVegetarian Nutrition, March, 1997.5. Fanaian M, Szilasi J, Storlien L, et al. The effectof amodified fat diet on insulin resistance and metabolicparameters in type II diabetes. Diabetologia 39(1), A7,1996.6. Freese R, Mutanen M. Alpha-Linolenic acid and marinelong-chain fatty acids differ only slightly in their effects onhemostatic factorsin health subjects, Am J Clin Nutr66:591-8, 1997.1867. Uauy R, Peirano P, Hofman D, et al. Role of essential fattyacids in the function of the developing nervous system.Lipids 31(S): 167-76, 1996.

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Chapter-18Effect of Yoga nidra on hypertensivepatientsAs we have entered the era of fast pace, we encounter anumber of challenges and obstacles in our daily walks of life. Attimes we have faced unbearable pressure and we cannot keep up tounusual demands of our peers. We should try to stay determinedand alert every moment for everyday task that we do and this hascaused the stress causes grow up high.A stress cause is mostly psychological and often has anumber of physiological causes behind it. At times we are upset tothat extent that we completely lose control of our personal balance.What matters most are factors like emotional equilibrium and itmostly evokes a defensive response.A number of symptoms can be noted as the probable stresscauses. We note a number of symptoms like and palpitation or ourheart beats pounding faster and our muscles stretching and gaspingheavily at every sight or sound that we perceive. We can alsoperceive other psychological and physical treats, in which thetension possibly has its roots.A number of events can be rated as probable stress causes.The usual causes are remaining stuck for long hours in the traffic188congestion and may be attending phone calls from near ones orsome striking news. What affects us in a round about manner arefactors like- rise in the level of stress hormones and increased heartbeat rate and higher levels of blood pressure unexpectedly.Hypertension or high blood pressure may be of unknowncause (essential hypertension), or it may occur in association withsome other condition, such as kidney disease (secondary orsymptomatic hypertension). It is controlled with a low-salt diet anddrugs.Hypertension is one of the major public health problemsespecially because it has no symptoms. Many people havehypertension without knowing it. In the United States, about 50million people of all ages and sex have high blood pressure.Hypertension is more common in men than women and in peopleover the age of 65 have hypertension. It also is more common inAfrican-Americans than in white Americans.Hypertension is serious because people with the conditionhave a higher risk for heart disease and other medical problemsthan people with normal blood pressure. Serious complications canbe avoided by getting regular blood pressure checks and treatinghypertension.189

Sign and SymptomsIn the early stages, majority of hypertensive have no signsand symptoms except elevated BP. Often high BP is detected onroutine medical check up. The symptoms depend upon:i. Level of BP.

ii. Hypertensive Vascular Disease.iii. Target organ involvediv. Underlying disease in case of Secondary Hypertension.Symptoms due to elevated BP itself are headache,lightheadedness, giddiness, irritability and fatigue. Headache isgenerally localized to the occipital region is present when thepatient awakens in the morning and subsides in a few hours.Hypertensive vascular disease results in thickening of the mainarteries which are hard or palpation. There may be bleeding fromnose or urinary tract. Involvement of coronary arteries causesangina pain. Other sign and symptoms of cardiac involvement arepalpitation, breathlessness in lying posture, night urination,fatigability and oedema of dependent part.

Medical CauseHypertension has several specific causes. It appears that acombination of these is responsible for the increased incidence inhigh blood pressure over the last decade, some causes are givenbelow:-190(i) HeredityIf both parents have hypertension the chances of childrenalso becoming hypertensive are forty-five percent higher thannormal. If one parent was hypertensive the chances are thirtypercent higher than normal. Thus the influence of heredity doesplay a part in the causation of hypertension by laying down thebasic characteristics which will be modified by the environmentand learned patterns of behaviour.(ii) AgeThe peak incidence of hypertension falls in the forty tosixty years age group, though the number of young people withhypertension is on the increase. Ageing and subsequentdeterioration of the physical body facilitates the disease process. Atthe same time, build-up of toxins, stress hormones and tensionresults in adults and very rarely in children. With advancing age,there is also a greater chance of hardening of the arteries with itsaccompanying increased blood pressure.(iii) SmokingThere is now incontrovertable evidence that smoking isharmful to the health. It is known that as well as the increasedchance of lung cancer, lung disease in general, smokingcontributes to hardening of blood vessels of the heart; deteriorationof the peripheral vessel leading to greater peripheral resistance;and to inflammation of the optic nerve.191(iv) Cholesterol and High fat dietCholesterol and increased blood fats have been correlatedwith an increased incidence of blood vessel disorder. When vesselsare diseased there is a greater chance of developing high bloodpressure. High blood pressure plus excessive dietary fat is thoughtto hasten the process of deposition of fat on the vessel walls andspeeds hardening of the arteries.

(v) Sedentary LifestyleThe mechanization of civilization and emphasis on city lifehas led to a decrease in the proportion of people who take vigorousexercise. The proportion of sedentary workers and businessexecutives, who are most prone to hypertension, has increased.This has been paralleled by a massive increase in the number ofpeople with high blood pressure. Statistics and experiments haveproved that inadequate physical exercise weakens the body,leaving it prone to high blood pressure, especially when it isassociated with mental stress.(vi) Personality, Stress and EmotionsThe classical viewpoint held by many psychologists andpsychiatrists of the role of personality in essential hypertension isone associated with a picture of external friendliness and selfcontrol beneath which there are strong aggressions and anxiety.Anxiety is intensified by the patient’s fears of expressing hisaggression, and a constant conflict ensures.192

Mental CauseEvery person has some neurotic tendencies or mentalproblems which cause periods of unhappiness, tension, depression,anxiety to one degree or another. These tensions filter into thephysical via the pranic structure. They first gain access via thebrain, which is the gateway between mind and body. The brain ispart of the physical body though it is intimately linked with themental body. The brain is the crossroads between the inner andouter world, the junction of each individually, enabling us tocommunicate our inner individual experiences to the outsideenviornment. It is our controlling instrument for externalcommunication and self-expression.The brain controls the autonomic nervous system whichregulates the blood pressure. When it is imbalanced due to higherand more subtle disturbances, we get hypertension throughexcessive sympathetic stimulation.

Yogic CausePrana and chitta are circulated through a network of flowways called Nadi. There are 72, 000 nadis or energy channels inthe body. They are organized in much the same pattern as theblood vessels, for they have three main channels of flow: Ida (themental channel), Pingala (the vital channel) and Sushumna (the193spiritual channel). These branches are subdivided into finer andfiner channels permeating every atom of the body. The nadiscompose an energizing infrastructure within every cell, tissue andorgan of the physical body. Any blockage or impurity in the nadisleads to disease. Blockages are due to chaotic thought pattern orstressful lifestyle.On the physical level, the arteries which are the activedynamic component of the circulatory system reflect pingala nadi,whereas the veins, which are the passive receptive nadicomponent, reflect Ida nadi, Sushumna nadi, which lays in the

centre of the spinal cord, is mirrored in the vast capillary networkwhich extends throughout the whole body.Hypertension is the result of an imbalance in the nadis inwhich pingala becomes predominant. Pingala is associated withheat, the colour red, extroversion and dynamism. Hypertension islinked to the pingala nadi because the arterial tree which branchesout from the heart is most dynamic. The blood it carries is redbecause of its high oxygen content.

Classification of HypertensionLike fever, hypertension is a sign of some underlyingdisorder. As pointed out above, hypertension can be produced by avariety of causes. Increase in sympathetic activity andvasoconstrictor chemicals can produce spasm of blood vessels194resulting in increase in peripheral resistance and BP. Peripheralresistance is also increased by thickening of blood vessels andincrease in blood viscosity. Increase in cardiac output also leads toincrease in BP. Cardiac output is increased by a number of factorslike stimulation of heart by neural and chemical influences andincrease in blood volume.In more than 90% of adult hypertensive, the cause ofelevated BP can not be pin pointed. These patients are said to haveprimary, essential or idiopathic hypertension. In rest of thepatients, a specific cause can be identified which is generally renalor humeral. These patients have secondary hypertension of knownctiology. Thus, secondary hypertension is due to a specific organdefect while primary hypertension is associated with functionalabnormalities.

Complications of HypertensionHypertension decreases life by 10-12 years and the patientsdie prematurely due to heart disease, stroke or kidney failure.Complications depend upon the level of BP, target organ involved,the underlying disease in case of secondary hypertension and thepresence of risk factors.Hypertension is a progressive disease leading to severecomplications and ultimate death. Being asymptomatic in thebeginning it usually remains undiagnosed till the disease has195progressed, since it is a very common disorder. There is need toregularly monitor BP of middle aged persons. Thus, treatment canbe initiated as soon as the condition is detected. Adoption of yogiclife style will go a long way in preventing the development ofhypertension in such individuals.

Prevalence rate of hypertensionAccording to National Center for BiotechnologyInformation, USA prevalence of hypertension varied around theworld, with the lowest prevalence in rural subjects of Haryana inIndia (3.4% in men and 6.8% in women) and the highestprevalence in Poland (68.9% in men and 72.5% in women). InIndia, the prevalence is highest in Mumbai (27% male and 28%female) and lowest prevalence in rural area of Haryana (3.4% and

6.8% in women). While according to National CardiovascularDisease Database the prevalence of hypertension in North India ishighest in Delhi i.e. 45% and lowest in rural area of Haryana i.e.4.5%.

TreatmentThere is no specific treatment for essential hypertensionbecause medical science has found no specific cause for thisdisorder. The aim of therapy is to lower the blood pressure usingrest, diet, avoidance of stress and drugs.196General Medical AdviceCounselling on how to live a healthy life includes dietmanagement to reduce the intake of fats and salts in order to lowerthe pressure and reduce the chance of hardening the arteries.Obesity is reduced by diet. Smoking is stopped and emotionalstress avoided. Exercise within the range of tolerance isrecommended.In general to control the essential hypertension doctorsprescribe antihypertensive drugs. In most cases drugs lower theblood pressure without undue side effects. However, the patientmust continue medication even when the symptoms areameliorated and, the surface, hypertension is cured. If he stopsdrug therapy he risks his blood pressure shooting up to its originallevel or higher, with unpleasant effects. This is known as therebound phenomenon. It occurs because drugs do not remove theroot cause of hypertension, but only suppress it. Drugs can alsocause unpleasant side effects, only Yoga gets to the root cause ofthe disease in a safe, efficient manner. However, drugs caneffectively reduce a dangerously high blood pressure as a preludeto more long range yogic therapy and can then be withdrawn.197

Role of Yoga Nidra for Hypertensive patientsThe practice of Yoga nidra has a number of benefits forhypertensive patients. Important among them are as follows:-Minimizes tensionIn the modern world the international problem is notpoverty, drugs or fear of war; it is tension and only tension. A highpercentage of people remain in a state of tension and frustration.This continuous level of tension in the body, mind and emotionspredisposes the individual towards psychological andpsychosomatic disorders. Modern psychology as well as yogicphilosophy believes in three kinds of tension – muscular tensions,emotional tensions and mental tensions – which can beprogressively released through the systematic and regular practiceof Yoga nidra. Muscular tension results from nervous andendocrinal imbalances. It manifests in the form of stiffness andrigidity in the physical body, In the practice of Yoga nidra thebody is progressively relaxed, which in turn releases theaccumulated muscular tensions.In day to day life individuals fail to express their emotionsfreely and openly. As a result, the emotions are repressed and

manifest in the form of emotional tension. In the practice of Yoganidra, the practitioner slowly moves towards the deeper realms ofthe mind where he or she confronts the deep-rooted emotionaltensions. When the practitioner recognizes these emotional198tensions with full awareness and a witnessing attitude, thenrepressed emotions are released and the practitioner becomes calmand tranquil.Due to excessive activity on the mental plane, the mindalways remains in a state of arousal, which results in mentaltension. Throughout life the mind is fed with negative data. In thepractice of Yoga nidra, especially in rotation of consciousness andbreath awareness, the mind is relaxed, thereby releasing the mentaltensions. In this way, through the regular and sincere practice ofYoga nidra, tensions at the physical, emotional and mental levelcan be minimized.Trains the mindThe sankalpa taken in each session of Yoga nidra isperhaps the most effective technique for training the mind. SwamiSatyananda (1998) says, “anything in life can fail you, but not thesankalpa made during Yoga nidra”. The sankalpa is taken andsowed in the subconscious mind when it is relaxed and receptive.The subconscious mind is very obedient and hence carries out theorders immediately. In Yoga nidra, the sankalpa trains thesubconscious mind and then the ordinary mind follows the pathautomatically. The sankalpa helps in training the mind because it isplanted when the mind is relaxed and ready to absorb and accept.The essential thing is that the resolve should be planted with strong199willpower and feeling. Many people make conscious resolvesguided by intellect, which rarely brings results.Relaxes the mindThe brain is the linking mediator between the mind, bodyand emotions. In Yoga nidra intensifying the awareness of thebody stimulates the brain. When the awareness is rotated on thedifferent body parts, it not only induces physical relaxation butalso clears the nerve pathways to the brain. Each of the body partshas an existing centre in the cerebral white matter, named byreseachers as ‘motor homunculus’ or ‘little man’. The sequence ofrotation of awareness in Yoga nidra is in accordance with the mapin the cerebral white matter of the brain. When the awareness isrotated in the same sequence again and again, it includes a flow ofpranic energy within the neuronal circuit of the motor homunculusof the brain. This pranic flow brings in a subjective experience ofrelaxation in the brain.In one of the stages of Yoga nidra a pair of oppositefeelings or sensations is intensified again and again in thepractitioner. This continuous invocation of opposite feelings orsensations is in accordance with the electrophysiological operatingprinciples of the brain. When a neuron fires it produces a nerveimpulse which is relayed and registered in the brain. But if thesame neuron keeps on firing again and again, then its relayed

impulse is no longer registered by the brain. Researchers have200called this ‘phenomenon habituation’. When the brain becomesaccustomed to the stimulus, then gradually it becomes relaxed. Thestate where the brain is completely relaxed results in mentalrelaxation.

Clears up the unconsciousFrom early childhood, we tend to repress many wishes,desires and conflicts. Whenever a situation threatens the ego, thedefence mechanisms are called upon and the conflicting situationis repressed or suppressed to the unconscious. All the traumaticexperiences, unfulfilled desires and threatening situations aresuppressed by the ego to the subconscious and unconscious realmsof the mind. In the deeper realms of the mind this conflicting andfrustrating matter does not die but remains alive and later manifestsin the form of various pathological symptoms. The represseddesires, wishes and situations remain in the form of symbols in theunconscious mind. During the practice of Yoga nidra, theinstructor asks the practitioner to visualize certain symbols andimages with a witnessing attitude. If the symbols and images areselected properly, then they are in accordance with the symbols ofthe unconscious.An abstract association is created between the guidedimagery and the associated repressed experiences of theunconscious. For example, if the teacher instructs the practitionerto visualize a dog, this may bring out a post traumatic childhood201experience in which the practitioner was bitten by a dog. Thepractitioner observes this associated painful experience with awitnessing attitude, which helps in cutting off the personalidentification with the experience. When the personal identificationceases to be cut off, the painful experience associated with the dogis repressed again. In this way, the practice of visualization bringsthe unconscious repressed desires, experiences, conflicts andfrustrations to the conscious level and then cut off the personalidentification with those experiences. As a result, the unconsciousis cleared up.Counteracts stressStress is a cognitive or emotional response made by theindividual towards any situation, which demands adjustment.When the demands of the situations exceed the ability of theindividual then distress results, which may manifest in mental andphysical symptoms of abnormality. The practice of Yoga nidrahelps in building up the coping ability. The practitioner of Yoganidra slowly becomes aware of the inherent dormant potentialitiesand thus prevents himself from becoming a victim of distress.Udupa (1977) suggests that stress-related disorders evolvegradually through four stages. In the first stage, psychologicalsymptoms like anxiety and irritability arise due to over activationof the sympathetic nervous system. The second stage ischaracterized by related physical symptoms like high blood202

pressure, increased heart rate etc. In the third stage, theabnormalities manifest clinically in the organ systems. In the laststage, severe symptoms in particular organs result which needlong-term medical management.In Yoga nidra an attempt is made to activate theparasympathetic system, and slowly a balance between thesympathetic and parasympathetic systems is achieved by inducingcomplete physical, emotional and mental relaxation. In this waythe practice of Yoga nidra counteracts stress. Carrington et al(1980) concluded that Yoga nidra has its most widespreadapplication as a preventive measure to be practiced by healthy,active people as a means of relieving accumulated tensions,increasing stress resistance and overall efficiency, and preventingthe development of stress-related diseases.

Material and Methods20 people in the age group of 40-60 years, suffer fromhypertension were selected from a naturopathic hospital ofLucknow. Most of them were belong to business class or sales orhousewives. They were not taking any antihypertensive medicineto reduce their BP. They want to reduce their BP naturally.All these patients were selected by random sampling.An 8 week yogic program in which 30 minutes of Yoganidra practice daily take place was designed for these patients.203There systolic and diastolic blood pressure was measured beforestarting the program.All the 20 patients were belonging to the essential class ofhypertension. It was to make sure by taking there medical history.There BP was recorded every week.The whole program took place under the supervision oftrained Yoga Instructors.

ObservationInformation from the clinical data and narration by thepatients shows that all the participants felt energetic, lively, freshand relaxed. There is remarkable improvement in the associatedsymptoms like anxiety, tension, bowel disorders, insomnia, painsand aches, fatigue, etc. one other important result reported by allthe participants was the whole some feeling of well being andgoodness.Our observation shows that the result of Yoga Nidra variespatient to patient. Some patients were getting a quick relief andshowing remarkable changes, some patients showed averagechange and some remain unchanged.Out of 20 patients, the BP of 2 patients remains unchangedand there were remarkable changes that were visible in the bloodpressure of 18 patients.204Yoga nidra is helpful in reducing the blood pressure of thepatients because it helps to reduce the intensity of the thoughtswhich cause the mental illness for the man.

Conclusion

Observation from the study led us to conclusion that afterpractice of Yoga nidra is a Superbly effective system ofmeditation. It rejuvenates the nervous system and helps inovercoming with psychosomatic diseases. Except it, the study alsoshows that Yoga nidra helps in reduction of systolic blood pressurerelatively more than in the diastolic blood pressure. The reducedBP can be maintained only if the Yoga nidra is continued onregular practice.

Table for the observation of the Blood Pressure of the patientsBefore AfterS.No.Name ofPatientSexAge Systolic Diastolic Systolic DiastolicRemarksImproved1. S. Kumar M 47 124 84 120 80 +2. Khurshida F 52 145 95 131 87 +3. N. Joshi M 45 157 97 137 93 +4. M. Trivedi M 58 160 92 142 86 +2055. A. Khare M 46 150 86 128 80 +6. P. Agarwal M 55 120 86 120 86 NoChange7. Meenakshi F 42 150 100 136 92 +8. Shikha F 49 120 88 120 88 NoChange9. D. Awasthi M 51 140 88 136 80 +10. I. Ali M 60 144 90 130 88 +11. B. Pal M 43 140 90 140 98 +12. A. Chaturvedi M 59 138 90 134 84 +13. Suneeta F 41 140 94 122 86 +14. D. Khan M 54 150 92 140 85 +15. Nuzhat F 53 134 88 116 80 +16. V. Asthana M 48 145 87 135 80 +17. S. Srivastava M 43 135 91 125 81 +18. Y. Nigam M 57 115 85 111 82 +19. Shaziya F 48 140 88 130 85 +20 A. Ahmad M 56 126 85 120 80 +

References1. “Control of Hypertension by Inegrated Approach of Yoga Therapy”, Kunder, V.G. and Basavaraddi, Ishwar V.2. “The effects of Yoga on Hypertension”, Dr. Swami Shankardevananda. 3. “Yoga Nidra, Its Advantages and Applications”, Bhusan Siddhartha, March, 20014. Chhajer Vimal, Food for Reversing Heart diseases.5. Swami Shankardevanand, Yoga on Hypertension.6. Swami Satyanand Saraswati, Yoga and Cardiovascular management.7. Cooper david, The Art of meditation-A.