Archive for the ‘yoga research’ Category

By Dr. Rita Khanna

INTRODUCTION

Varisara Dhauti is also known as Shankha Prakshalana. It is a very strong purification technique, as it cleans the complete elementary canal (from the mouth to the anus). Shank means shell, and Prakshalana means cleansing. Shells have a lot of curves, the same way our intestines have. Try to pour water into a shell. To have the water in the last curve, we have to rotate the shell. We use the same technique in the practice of Shankh Prakshalana Kriya, but instead of rotations, it is comprised of drinking lukewarm saline water and then performing the sequence of specially-designed Asanas – until the intestines have been completely washed (clear liquid comes out from the anal opening in the end). After this exercise, you have to rest the whole day. For that day, you should only have a special diet called Khichdi and Ukada (Herbal Liquid). This lubricating food replaces the natural lubrication of your insides, which has been washed out by the saline solution. This technique is practiced in the morning on an empty stomach. It is necessary that the very first process of Shankha-Prakshalana should be carried out only under an adept and experienced Yogacharya.

ANATOMY OF SHANKHA PRAKSHALANA

There are 5 valves in our food passage. They are oesophageal, pyloric, ileocecal, colon, and anus. The complexity of the GIT (Gastrointestinal tract), and its sensitivity to day-to- day tensions, are common causes to restrict the flow in the system. They lose their natural function and become inefficient; gradually, the system starts to pack up. This causes auto-toxemia, a state where the body’s own wastes begin to poison it. Poor food, sedentary lifestyles, late eating hours, habitual snacking, and dehydration, are also common reasons why the digestive system becomes inefficient at assimilating and eliminating, thus causing stomach ailments. Shankha Prakshalana practice reconditions the function of the valves and eliminates all types of toxins out of the bloodstream.

REQUISITES FOR SHANKHA PRAKSHALANA

One Yoga mat, one towel (normal size), soap cake for washing hands, wear loose clothes and have one extra pair of clothes available, one steel glass, one steel Thali (Plate), with a rim (kinnari/sides), one tablespoon for eating khichdi, and a Neti pot.

MENTAL PREPRATION

• The successful completion of the technique strongly depends on preparation. Great care must be taken in choosing a day for the event, which is not too cold and not too hot. Very cloudy, windy, or rainy weather is to be avoided. The best time to practice is at the changeover of seasons.

• The best time to commence is soon after sunrise, when the air is fresh and clean and the mind and body are relaxed.

• The best place to practice Shankha-Prakshalana is in the garden or in an open area, where there is plenty of fresh air. Make sure that adequate toilet facilities are nearby.

• The practice is best undertaken with a group of friendly people. The atmosphere should be relaxed and lighthearted, with no apprehension concerning the practice, as this can create tension and prevent free bowel movement.

• One should take light food the previous day and also, quite early in the evening. Liquids may be taken, if one feels so. Nothing should be taken in the morning of the Kriya. If one does not get automatic natural call without morning tea, then tea may be taken. If required, you can make the treatment significantly easier by having an enema right before the Shankha Prakshalana.

OTHER PREPRATIONS

Boil 3 liters of water, with 3 tablespoon of rock salt, and big cardamom. Stir them. This water is for one person.

Salt is used for Shankha Prakshalana because of its reaction in the stomach when it mixes with acids and enzymes. It creates a more dilute and less potent solution. Salt is a very efficient means to dissolve mucus and clean the intestinal linings. In small quantities, it has a soothing effect on inflamed linings and also has a mild relationship with the liver.

TECHNIQUE FOR SHANKHA PRAKSHALANA

First Round

• Drink two glasses of warm, salty water – as quickly as possible. If it is difficult to drink two glasses in the beginning, start with one glass of water. It may be due to excess gas in the body. When you feel alright, drink 2 glasses of water.

• Perform a series of five specific Asanas dynamically, eight times each, in the correct sequence – i.e., Tadasana, Tiryaka Tadasana, Kati Chakrasana, Tiryaka Bhujangasana, and Udarakarshanasana.

• After completing the round, go to the toilet and empty yourself. If there has been no movement, do not worry – come out – but do not use force to produce a bowel movement. This completes one round. Then start the second round.

Second and Rest of the Rounds

All the rounds are the same as the first. One may have to go to the toilet 7 to 8 times. The speed, at which one completes the practice, should not be compared with that of others.

• Spend as little time in the toilet as possible; a minute or so is enough. The aim is to build up the internal cleansing pressure. At first, solid stool will be evacuated, followed by a mixture of stool and water. As the practice progresses, more water and less solid stool, will be excreted. Eventually, cloudy yellow water and, finally, almost clear water, will be evacuated.

• It takes a few hours for the completion of Shankha Prakshalana Kriya, and the salted water cannot remain warm so long. Therefore, the water should either be warmed at intervals, or hot water added, so that warmth is maintained while drinking.

• In between the Asanas, if you feel like going to the toilet, do not ignore this feeling; but go and sit on the toilet. You should then return and complete the round before finishing off.

Note:

After Shankha Prakshalana, Kunjal and Jal Neti processes are a must. For Kunjal, drink 5-6 glasses of plain water quickly – then throw it up like a fountain from the mouth. Then, do Jal Neti.

FIVE SPECIAL ASANAS

The five Asanas, which form the core of the practice, are related directly to the 5 alimentary valves. They help to stretch, massage, and relax all parts of the alimentary canal and enhance the cleansing process.

TADASANA (THE STRETCH POSE)

• Stand straight, with feet about 10 cms apart, arms by the sides.

• Breathe in deeply, and raise both hands on the sides of the head, in an upward direction.

• Interlock your fingers – palms facing towards the sky.

• Exhale; place the hands on top of the head.

• Inhale – stretch the arms up over the head and slowly rise up on your toes, stretching and lengthening the abdominal area.

• Hold the position for a few seconds.

• Exhale – bring the heels down on the floor and hands on top of the head.

• This is one round.

• Repeat 8 times. All 8 rounds should take no more than about 40 – 60 seconds.

• Tadasana acts mainly on the stomach and stretches the colon.

TIRYAKA TADASANA (SIDE BENDING STRETCH POSE)

• Stand straight with feet about two feet apart.

• Breathe in deeply, and raise both hands on the sides of the head, in upward direction.

• Interlock your fingers – palms are facing towards the sky.

• Inhale, extend the spine.

• While exhaling, bend the body to the right, from the waist.

• Hold the position for a few seconds.

• Inhale – and slowly come back to the upright position.

• Similarly, repeat the process on the left side.

• This is one round.

• Repeat total 8 times (each side 4 times). All 8 rounds should take no more than 60 seconds.

• Tiryaka Tadasana acts on the small intestine and colon.

KATI CHAKRASANA (WAIST ROTATING POSE)

• Stand straight, with feet about two feet apart, and arms by the sides.

• Make a fist with the right hand, thumb inside; place it in the center of the lower back – press it nicely.

• Inhale – bring the left hand on the right shoulder.

• Exhale, as you twist the upper body to the right side and turn your head fully to your right, to look behind towards the left heel.

• Keep the feet firmly on the ground, while twisting.

• Hold the position for a few seconds.

• Inhale and return to the starting position.

• Similarly, repeat the process on the left side.

• Inhale and return to the starting position.

• This is one round.

• Repeat total 8 times (each side 4 times). All 8 rounds should take no more than 30 seconds.

• Kati Chakrasana massages the small intestine.

ASHVA SANCHALANA MUDRA (TIRYAKA BHUJANGASANA)

• Lie with forehead down on the stomach, feet about half a meter apart; heels should be on top, and toes are curled under – hands directly under the chest.

• Now inhale, and raise the head forward.

• Exhale – twist the head and upper portion of the body to the right shoulder, and look over the shoulder at the left heel.

• Try to feel a diagonal stretch of the abdomen.

• Relax the back and keep the navel as close to the floor as possible.

• Stay in the final position for a few seconds.

• Inhale – bring the face forward again.

• Exhale – twist to the other side, without coming back to the floor.

• Inhale and return to the center, and exhale as you lower the body to the floor.

• This is one round.

• Repeat total 8 times (each side 4 times). All 8 rounds should take no more than 60 seconds.

UDARAKARSHAN KRIYA (THE ABDOMINAL MASSAGE POSE)

• Sit in squatting position, with feet apart and hands on the knees.

• Inhale – bring the right knee to the floor near the left foot, pressing the stomach with the left thigh.

• While doing so, push the left knee towards the right.

• Exhale – turn the head towards the left side, and look over the shoulder.

• Stay in the final position for a few seconds.

• Inhale and come back to the starting position.

• Similarly, repeat on the right side.

• Inhale and come back to the starting position.

• This is one round.

• Repeat total 8 times (each side 4 times). All 8 rounds should take no more than 60 seconds.

• Tiryaka Bhujangasana and Udarakarshan Asana squeeze and massage the Caecum, sigmoid colon, and rectum, and also stimulate the Rectosphincteric reflex or the urge to defecate.

BEFORE UNDERTAKING THE KRIYA

• Before undertaking Shankh Prakshalanlearn Kriya, practice five asanas regularly, for at least one week, so that during Prakshalana, the Asanas are exercised conveniently with ease. Each asana should be done with thorough understanding of its importance for Shankha Prakshalana.

• Learn Jal Neti and Kunjal Kriya. Three days before undertaking Shankh Prakshalan, Kunjal and Jala Neti Kriya should be practiced every morning before breakfast. This practice helps in drinking enough water during Prakshalana and there will not be any vomiting sensation.

• Think positive while doing Shankha Prakshalana Kriya. One may do this after the morning bath and with a happy frame of mind.

RELAXATION FOR 50 MINUTES

• Once all these Kriyas have been performed, then complete rest is essential for fifty minutes. One should not move about. Lie down in Shavasana, but do not sleep, as a headache or cold may result. Try to maintain silence. It is very essential to keep warm during this resting period. During this time, the whole digestive system is given a chance to revitalize itself. Passing urine, at this time, is perfectly normal.

AFTER THE RELAXATION

• Exactly fifty minutes after completing the practice of Shankha-Prakshalana, a salt-less liquid mixture of cooked rice, moong dal, ghee (khichdi), and Ukada (Herbal Liquid), must be taken. The rhythm of the body has been temporarily disturbed; however, fifty minutes after completion of the practice, the digestive organs resume their functions.

Ukada (Herbal liquid)

Fig-2pcs, Apricots (Zardalu)-2pcs, Black big grapes-4pcs, Black big grapes-4pcs, Dried Berries-4pcs, Small cardamom-4pcs, Black Pepper- 4pcs, Thick quality Variali (Fennel)- 50gms, Ginger Fresh-30gms, Tulsi leaves-25 no., Lemon-1pc, Honey-2Tb.Spoon.

Method

Boil the first 10 items in 6 glasses of water, until it comes to 1 glass of water. Then sieve the mixture and drink, after adding honey and lemon juice, as per taste.

Khichdi For one person

Moong Dal, without Shell100 Gms, Khichdi Rice 50gm, Pure Ghee 150 gms.

These three components of Khichdi are helpful in the restoration of correct digestive function. The pure ghee, or clarified butter, is necessary to coat the intestinal wall, until the body produces a new lining. The rice provides a simple, easily digestible packing material, in the form of carbohydrate, and creates mucus, which also protects the inner lining of the alimentary canal. The lentils supplement the diet, by giving the body an easily digestible source of protein, and make for an all round nutritious meal.

Method

Boil Moong Dal (Pulses) and rice together, until soft. Make watery Khichdi, without adding salt. When done, then add ghee. Take care, that while making it, it does not burn.

A sufficient quantity of Khichdi must be eaten to reline the intestines and keep the walls of the gut stretched; otherwise, they may cramp, due to the absence of the bulk, to which they are accustomed. This bulk, not only maintains the tone, but also aids the intestines to resume peristalsis. It is also important – in order to prevent indigestion, diarrhea, and constipation. Remember! Do not drink any fluid before having the first meal.

FURTHER RELAXATION

• Having eaten Khichdi, and taken Ukada, further rest should be taken for the remainder of the day, and also the following day. However, it is important not to sleep for at least three to four hours after the initial meal. Sleep, during this period, may lead to physical lethargy and headache.

• In the evening, one should eat only diluted Khichdi, but without ghee or oil. There should be gap within seven hours between these two meals. The stomach must be filled to capacity at both meals, even if there is no feeling of hunger.

• During this period, it is advisable to keep silence and avoid physical or mental work. One should not use a fan, air conditioner, or TV. One should not eat, drink, or have sex. If thirsty, one can take lukewarm water, only, with lemon juice and honey.

BENEFITS OF SHANKHA PRAKSHALANA

• Physically, Shankha Prakshalan Kriya alleviates digestive problems, such as indigestion, gas, acidity, and constipation. It generally tones the liver and other digestive organs and glands. It has been used in the cure of diabetes mellitus, hypoglycemia, obesity, high blood cholesterol, and high lipid levels. It strengthens the immune system, alleviating allergies and immunological problems. It helps relieve the symptoms of arthritis and chronic inflammatory diseases. Excessive mucus is reduced – relieving asthma, chronic colds, and sinusitis. It purifies the blood, and alleviates skin problems, such as pimples, boils, and eczema.

• The practice of Shankha Prakshalan Kriya has been a panacea for Diabetic patients. Normally, one can do this Kriya twice a year, but for diabetic patients, it can be done 4-6 times in a year – under the guidance of an expert Guru. They should do Kunjal Kriya, every day, in the morning.

• Pranically, Shankha-Prakshalana recharges the entire Pranic body, removes blockages from the Nadis and purifies all the Chakras. The harmony of the five Pranas is restored and the energy level is raised. It prepares the way for higher states of consciousness. Any Sadhana performed after this cleansing practice gives manifold results.

THOSE, WHO SHOULD NOT PERFORM -

One, who has high/low B.P., an ulcer, epilepsy, puss in the ear, knee, ankle, calf pain (extreme), or gone through surgery. Ladies, during pregnancy, or periods, should not attempt. Heart patients, persons with kidney or gallbladder stones, or having weak kidneys, hernia, and gastritis ulcers, should also avoid. Not advised for persons with mental disorders, and children under the age of 15.

FOOD RESTRICTIONS

• For at least one week after the practice, all chemically-processed, synthetic, pungent, spicy, acidic, rich, and non-vegetarian foods must be strictly avoided. No pickles, sweets, chocolates, ice cream, or soft drinks should be taken.

• Milk, buttermilk, yogurt, and all fruits; especially acidic fruits, such as lemons, grapefruit, oranges, or pineapples are restricted.

• Cigarettes, tea, coffee; betel nut preparations, such as pan, and any other type of intoxicant, or drug, should also not be taken.

DIET

The diet should be as pure and simple as possible. It includes foods, such as rice, wheat, wheat bread, vegetables with low acidic content, nuts, lentils, soya beans, and other pulses. After Shankha Prakshalana, the digestive system is very vulnerable and extra care should be taken to protect the body. Those, who are unable to follow these restrictions, should not practice Shankha Prakshalana.

This practice should only be attempted in a Yoga Ashram or Yoga center under expert guidance. All guidelines, and restrictions, must be followed strictly to avoid experiencing harmful side effects.

If you feel inspired by this article, feel free to publish it in your Newsletter or on your Website. Our humble request is to please include the Resource as follows: Courtesy: Dr. Rita Khanna’s Yogashaastra Studio. A popular studio that helps you find natural solutions for complete health.

Mobile: + 919849772485 Ph:-91-40-65173344

Email: yogashaastra@gmail.com

Website: www.yogashaastra.in

Dr. Rita Khanna

Dr. Rita Khanna is a well-known name in the field of Yoga and Naturopathy. She was initiated into this discipline over 25 years ago by world famous Swami Adyatmananda of Sivananda Ashram in Rishikesh(India).

She believes firmly that Yoga is a scientific process, which helps us to lead a healthy and disease-free life. She is also actively involved in practicing alternative medicines like Naturopathy. Over the years, she has been successfully practicing these therapies and providing succour to several chronic and terminally ill patients through Yoga, Diet and Naturopathy. She is also imparting Yoga Teachers Training.

At present, Dr. Rita Khanna is running a Yoga Studio in Secunderabad (Hyderabad, India).

By Dr. Rita Khanna

A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE CHAKRAS

The word, Chakra, literally means wheel, circle, vortex, or whirlpool. The chakras are connected to a network of psychic channels called, Nadis, which correspond to the nerves but are more subtle in nature. The major chakras are seven in number and are located along the pathway of sushumna nadi, which flows through the centre of the spinal cord. Sushumna nadi originates at the perineum and terminates at the top of the head. The chakras are depicted symbolically as lotus flowers, each having a particular number of petals and a characteristic colour. The lotus symbolizes the three stages- ignorance, aspiration, and illumination. It represents spiritual growth from the lowest state of awareness to the highest state of’ consciousness. The petals of the lotus, inscribed with the beeja mantras, or seed sounds, of the Sanskrit alphabet, represent the different manifestations of psychic energy, connected with the chakras and the nadis, leading into and out of them. Within each chakra is a yantra, comprised of the geometrical symbol of its associated element and beeja mantra. Within the yantra, there is also a presiding deity, which represents particular aspects of divinity, along with the corresponding vahana, or vehicle, which is an animal form, representing other psychic aspects related with the particular centre.

CHAKRAS ASSOCIATION WITH THE PHYSICAL BODY

On a physical level, chakras are associated with the major nerve plexuses and endocrine glands in the body. Endocrine system is a system of glands which secrete hormones directly into the blood stream, rather than through a duct, to regulate activity in other parts of the body. It is instrumental in regulating metabolism, growth, development, puberty, tissue function, and also plays a part in determining mood. The names of the glands and the chakras are muladhara (adrenal glands), swadhasthana (gondas/ovaries), manipura (spleen/pancreas), anahata (thymus), vishudha (thyroid/parathyroid), ajna (pituitary gland), and sahasrara (pineal gland). The ideal condition of chakras is that they all be open and active, and neither underactive (closed) or overactive. If your chakras are closed, you can perform meditations to open them again. Sit in meditation and focus on each chakra for 30-40 seconds, one at a time going up, then focus on each one going down, then again going up. This is one round. In this way, you can make one more round. While doing this, you will just be in a flow through all your chakras, running both the upward and downward current. Once your chakras are open and active, you should feel more balanced, happy, and at peace.

MULADHARA CHAKRA / ADRENAL GLAND

Location: Base of spine, between anus and genitals.

Color: Red

Element: Earth

Bij Mantra: Lam

Muladhara Chakra is the first Chakra in ascending order. It is just below the junction where Ida, Pingala, and Sushumna Nadis meet. Muladhara means support or pillar to all the other chakras as the other chakras are above this. This chakra is the seat or dwelling place of primal energy, kundalini Shakti. Kundalini, which gives power and energy to all the chakras, lies dormant at this chakra waiting to be released and merged with Shiva in the crown center.

On the physical level, this chakra is related to the adrenal glands, the kidneys, and the spinal column. It is responsible for the fight and flight response when survival is under threat. Physically, muladhara governs sexuality; mentally it governs stability; emotionally it governs sensuality; and spiritually, it governs a sense of security. When this chakra is underactive, we get diseases like constipation, piles, varicose veins problem, knee problem, body pain, and jaundice. If this chakra is over active, we become materialistic, greedy, obsessed with being secure, and resist change. The concentration and meditation on Muladhara chakra helps rectify disorders of these functions and enhance inner stability and balance.

SWADHISTHANA CHAKRA / GONDAS, OVARIES

Location: Slightly below the belly button

Color: Orange

Element: Water

Bij Mantra: Vam

The literal meaning of the word, swadhisthana, is one’s own abode. The Sanskrit word “swa” means self and “sthana” means dwelling place. Although kundalini resides in the muladhara chakra, actually her home is not there. When you begin to experience kundalini, you will find her in her real nature – not at the base of the spinal column, but at swadhishthana chakra, her own abode. Swadhistliana chakra is the chakra of creativity, pure attention, and pure knowledge. It is the one which connects us to the inner source of inspiration, and enables us to experience the beauty around us. By purifying this centre, the animal nature is transcended.

On the physical level, swadhisthana chakra is related to the female ovaries and male testes. It looks after our liver, kidneys, and the lower abdomen. It is responsible for assimilation, procreation, lymphatic system, and menstrual secretions. Physically, Swadisthana governs reproduction; mentally it governs creativity; emotionally it governs joy; and spiritually, it governs enthusiasm. When this chakra is underactive, we get diseases like diabetes, blood cancer, and many other diseases related to this gland, can occur. If this chakra is overactive, we tend to be emotional all the time. We’ll feel emotionally attached to people and will tend to focus on sex too much. Visualization of this centre can help rectify disorders of these functions and provide a channel for projection of energy and more specifically, thought energy.

MANIPURA CHAKRA / SPLEEN PANCREAS

Location: one hand-span above the belly button

Color: Golden bright yellow

Element: Fire

Bij Mantra: Ram

Mani means “jewel”; Puri means “city.” Manipura means, “the city of jewels.” It is so called because, being the fire centre, it is lustrous like a jewel and radiant with vitality and energy. Manipura is the centre of self-assertion, dynamism, and dominance. This chakra is the one that gives us the sense of generosity, complete satisfaction, and contentment. It represents expansive consciousness, and the desire for power. The main quality of this center is peace – clearing this chakra can relieve stress and tensions. When the manipura chakra succumbs to stresses of any kind, the effects are immediately felt both in the physical body and in the emotions.

On the physical level, this chakra is apparently related to the digestive system, the spleen, the liver, the pancreas, and the gall bladder, which produces and secretes enzymes, acids, and juices necessary for the digestion and absorption of nutrients. The adrenal glands, located above the kidneys, are also related with manipura. They secrete adrenaline into the blood during an emergency situation. This has the effect of speeding up all the physiological processes, making the mind sharp and alert, the heart beat faster, the respiration rate more rapid, and so on. The body is then prepared for a more intense level of activity, than normal, in what is commonly called the ‘fight or flight’ reaction. Physically, manipura governs digestion; mentally it governs personal power; emotionally it governs expansiveness; and spiritually, all matters of growth. If this chakra is under active, people suffer from sluggishness or malfunctions of the digestive system; they can have weakness in the body, indigestion, stomach, intestinal, and colon problems. If this chakra is over active, we are domineering and probably even aggressive. Visualization of this centre can help rectify disorders of these functions and brings us energy, effectiveness, spontaneity, and non-dominating power.

ANAHATA CHAKRA / THYMUS GLAND

Location: centre of the chest (in the area of the cardiac plexus).

Color: Green

Element: Air

Bij Mantra: yam

Anahata means “unstuck.” In the heart centre is the unstuck vibration of the eternal nada (sound). It is where an internal, unborn, and undying vibration, the pulse of the universe, and pulse of human existence, can be experienced. Anahata chakra is the centre of unconditional love, emotions, compassion, selflessness, and devotion. This is the place where resides our true Self, which is eternally pure and unaffected by anything. It is from our heart that the compassion and love manifests and the feelings of universal brotherhood and tolerance begin to develop; all beings are accepted and loved for what they are. The heart chakra gives us the sense of responsibility, complete security, confidence, and pure behaviour towards others.

On the physical level, this chakra is related to the heart, blood, lungs, and the circulatory system in general – along with the immune and endocrine systems. Physically, Anahata governs circulation; emotionally it governs unconditional love for the self and others; mentally it governs passion; and spiritually, it governs devotion. The disharmonious activation of Anahata chakra leads to love-related problems that appear in some tragic cases (divorce, death), perturbation of the endocrine gland corresponding to it – the thymus gland. If this chakra is under active, it can cause asthma or various heart conditions. If this chakra is over active, we are suffocating people with our love and our love probably has quite selfish reasons. Visualization of this centre can help rectify disorders of these functions. Then we get cosmic love and obtain all other divine qualities. All our worries, doubts, and fears are destroyed.

VISHUDDHI / VISHUDDHA / THYROID GLAND

Location: base of throat, above where it joins the chest

Color: Sky Blue

Element: Space

Bij Mantra: Ham

The word shuddhi means “purification” and the prefix “vi,” enhances this quality. It is the centre of the pure consciousness and creativity. Right understanding and discrimination develop at vishuddhi chakra. Here the dualities of life are accepted, allowing one to flow with life and let things happen as they will, without distinguishing between good and bad. It is the chakra of pure relationships with others and of playful detachment.

On the physical level, vishuddhi chakra is apparently related to the thyroids, the rate of metabolism, and the lungs in the physical body. It controls the activity of the vocal cords, of the hearing, of the pharynx and esophagus. Physically, vishuddha governs communication; emotionally it governs independence; mentally it governs fluent thought; and spiritually, it governs a sense of security. If this chakra is under active, people will get cold, cough, thyroid problem, and lack of communication skill. If this chakra is over active, we tend to speak too much – usually to domineer and keep people at a distance. Visualization of this centre can help rectify disorders of these functions, such as the feelings of superiority or inferiority, all jealousies; and it activates ability to telepathy, clairaudience, (Extra-sensory hearing) enhances.

AJNA CHAKRA / PITUITARY GLAND

Location: exact centre of forehead

Color: Indigo or deep blue

Element: Brahma

Bij Mantra: Aam

This centre is also known by various names such as: the third eye; jnana chakshu (the eye of wisdom); triveni (the confluence of three rivers); guru chakra, and the eye of Shiva. The word “ajna” means command. In deeper states of meditation, the disciple receives commands and guidance from the guru, and from the divine or higher self, through this chakra. Ida and pingala nadis merge with sushumna nadi, at ajna, running all the way up from muladhara to sahasrara. If Ida and pingala nadis are out of sequence, it indicates that something is disturbed in the energy circuit between mooladhara and ajna. It is a gate which opens the way for our consciousness to ascend to its final destination, which is the seventh center.

On a physical level, ajna is apparently related to the pituitary gland and the small brain, which secretes hormones to communicate to the rest of the endocrine system and also connects to the central nervous system via the hypothalamus. The hypophysis has a vital role in the physical basis of consciousness. This is the centre where wisdom and intuition develop. If this chakra is under active, one will have negative thoughts, lack of energy, making more bad karmas. If this chakra is over active, one may live in a world of fantasy too much; in excessive cases, hallucinations are possible. He who concentrates at this centre destroys all the karmas of the past lives. The benefits that are derived by meditation, on this chakra, cannot be described in words.

THE SAHASRARA / PITUITARY GLAND

Location: whole top of head above the hairline

Color: Violet

Element: Brahma

Bij Mantra: Om

Sahasrara Chakra is not really a chakra, but our connection to our higher selves and to the divine, the abode of Lord Shiva. The word “sahasrara” means one thousand. This chakra is visualized as a shining lotus of a thousand petals. In the centre of the lotus is a shining jyotirlingal lingam of light – symbol of pure consciousness. It is in sahasrara that the mystical union of Shiva and Shakti takes place, the fusion of consciousness with matter and energy, the individual soul with the supreme soul. When kundalini awakens, it ascends through the chakras to sahasrara and merges into the source from where it originated. Having attained this, the yogi attains the super-conscious state and supreme knowledge and passes beyond birth and death. It is like our umbilical / navel (um-BIL-i-kuhl) cord to “God.”

On physical level, sahasrara charka is related to the pineal gland. The pineal gland is a light sensitive gland that produces the hormone, melatonin – which regulates sleep and awakening. Its proper functioning helps to improve thinking power and intelligence. It is large in children, but shrinks at puberty. This chakra gives us the direct, absolute perception of reality on our central nervous system. It symbolizes detachment from illusion; an essential element in obtaining supramental consciousness of the truth that one is all and all is one. Sahasrara chakra integrates all the chakras with their respective qualities. It is the last milestone of the evolution of human awareness.

If you feel inspired by this article, feel free to publish it in your Newsletter or on your Website.

Our humble request is to please include the Resource as follows: Courtesy: Dr. Rita Khanna’s Yogashaastra Studio, a popular studio that helps you find natural solutions for complete health and detoxification.

Mobile: + 919849772485

Ph:-91-40-65173344

Email: yogashaastra@gmail.com

Dr. Rita Khanna

Dr. Rita Khanna is a well-known name in the field of Yoga and Naturopathy. She was initiated into this discipline over 25 years ago by world famous Swami Adyatmananda of Sivananda Ashram in Rishikesh(India).

She believes firmly that Yoga is a scientific process, which helps us to lead a healthy and disease-free life. She is also actively involved in practicing alternative medicines like Naturopathy. Over the years, she has been successfully practicing these therapies and providing succour to several chronic and terminally ill patients through Yoga, Diet and Naturopathy. She is also imparting Yoga Teachers Training.  At present, Dr. Rita Khanna is running a Yoga Studio in Secunderabad (Hyderabad, India).

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

It has been said that Yoga cannot entirely be learned from a book, it is the practice that develops the practitioner. While this is partially true, it must be remembered that books were what we heavily relied upon before audio, visual, and Internet technology were developed to their current levels. These days, there is so much information about Yoga, that it is hard to have enough time to absorb it all.

In the past, many of us read the few Yoga books that were available, many times over. In some cases, we were guided by line drawings in between the author’s valuable wording. We worked in small groups analyzing the text and line drawing until we got it right.

It is easy enough to access Yoga techniques on the Internet with libraries full of information, videos or video streaming technology, and Podcasts. Yet, how do you decipher which sites have reliable information. Yoga is an evolving system, and there are many different Yoga styles. Below are a few guidelines for sorting out Hatha Yoga information on the Internet.

Research your own pre-existing medical conditions and find out if there are any warnings that directly pertain to you. For example: If you have high blood pressure, your head should not be below your heart and you should seek professional medical advice before practicing Hatha or any physical form of Yoga. Make it a point to consult with your physician about the condition of your health.

Antiquated or erroneous information does exist on some Yoga sites. Hatha Yoga is a constantly evolving science of life. It is better to take the time to do your research, consult with your doctor, and speak to a professional Yoga teacher, about your particular case.

Even if you are young, athletic, flexible, and in perfect health, you should still consult with your doctor and do some research. The point here is: Educate yourself enough to avoid injury. If you have pre-existing injuries or ailments, you should be very cautious. Hatha Yoga can be very safe, but depending on the class, it can also be very challenging.

If you do not have access to a doctor, who is knowledgeable about Yoga, or a competent Yoga teacher, you should research Yoga and seriously consider taking an entry level Hatha Yoga teacher course. These courses can be found online or at an on-site intensive. Education is a safe method for discovering the subtleties of Yoga.

Whether you are practicing Hatha Yoga postures (asanas) or Yogic Breathing (pranayama), you should never force, push, or strain, through a technique. This is just common sense, but even the best of us can forget, if we let our ego get the best of us.

© Copyright 2008 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

——————————————–
Online Yoga Training
FREE Yoga Report. FREE Yoga Newsletter. FREE Yoga Videos.
Free Podcasts. Bonus: Free Yoga e-Book, “Yoga in Practice.”
——————————————–
On-Site Yoga Training: http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com
——————————————–
FREE CONTENT: If you are a Yoga Teacher, Yoga studio, blogger, e-zine, or website publisher, and are in need of quality content, please feel free to use my blog entries (articles) – Please be sure to reprint each article, as is, including the resource box above. Namaste, Paul
——————————————–