Archive for the ‘yogic subtle body’ Category

By Samantha Grayson, CYT

There is much more to Hatha Yoga than asana practice.  Every competent Yoga teacher training graduate knows about the major, minor, and lesser chakras.  Every Yoga certification course worth its weight teaches graduates about the subtle body of Yoga, Ayurveda, and Chinese medicine.

There are many different beliefs regarding the number of major chakras in the Yogic subtle body. It seems the most common theory is seven or eight major chakras or nerve centers in the subtle body. Each chakra is described with a color, flower with a specific number of petals, personality characteristics, a corresponding part of the body and an element.

Not all Yoga systems or Gurus completely agree on the exact characteristics of the seven major chakras.  Each chakra also has a corresponding mantra sound to awaken it. In Kundalini yoga there is a serpent (the Kundalini) at the first chakra and the serpent can be awakened as it moves through the seven main chakras. As the chakras are balanced, under the guidance of a competent Guru, a Yoga practitioner can reach deeper levels of consciousness.

1. First Chakra, Muladhara - this is a yellow chakra with four petals. Its element is earth and its mantra sound is LAM. The body part associated with this charka is the base or root. Its is associated with being grounded and balanced characteristics are roundedness, physical health, being comfortable with your body, stability, safety, prosperity and being present in the here and now.

2. Second chakra, Swahisthana – this is a white chakra with 6 petals. Its element is water and its mantra is VAM. The body part associated with this chakra is the abdomen and reproduction. It is associated with moving and its balancing characteristics are gracefulness, ability to embrace change , emotional intelligence, being nurturing, ability to set boundaries and enjoy pleasure, passion and sexual satisfaction

3. Third chakra, Manipura – This is the red chakra with 10 petals. Its element is fire and its mantra is RAM. It is associated with Directing. The part of the body associated with this chakra is the solar plexus. Balancing characteristics are Full voice, good communication and listening skills, good sense of timing and rhythm.

4. Fourth chakra, Anahata – This is a green chakra and has 12 petals, its element is air and its mantra is Yam. It is associated with loving and is associated with the lungs, heart, pericardium upper ribs, inner arms and hands, Balancing characteristics are caring, compassion, empathy, acceptance, self loving peaceful centered and contentment.

5. Fifth Chakra, Vishuddha – This is the sea-blue chakra that has 16 petals. Its element is ether and it mantra is Ham. It is associated with expression and is referred to as the throat chakra connecting the neck, shoulders, mouth and jaw and related to the thyroid gland. Balancing characteristics are full voice, communicates and listens well, good sense of timing and rhythm and creativity.

6. Sixth chakra – Ajna – This snow white chakra has two petals. OM mantra is OM. This chakra is about seeing both internally and externally, It is associated with the eyes The balancing characteristics are strong intuition, insight, imagination, memory, dream recall, visualization and has a guiding vision for life.

7. Seventh chakra – Sahasrara – The thousand petal chakra corresponds to the Absolute. When the serpent, kundalini reaches the seventh chakra the yogi attains Samadhi or super consciousness. The crown charka is the most important it is the consciousness of all other chakra. It is associated spiritual connection, wisdom and mastery, intelligence, being open minded, ability to question, assimilate and analyze information.

Samantha Grayson is a certified Yoga teacher.

By Dr. Rita Khanna

The word, “Bandha” means to lock, to bind, to tie together. Bandhas involve the contraction, or squeezing, of muscles. There are three muscular locks called, Jalandhara Bandha, Uddiyana Bandha, and Mula Bandha. They are situated in the throat, abdomen, and perineum, respectively. When we apply these three Bandhas together, it becomes Maha Bandha, the great lock. As there are three bandhas, there are three muscles group involved: cervical (neck) muscles, abdominal muscles, and perineal muscles.

These internal energy locks direct the Prana, or life force, up the spine – rather than allow it to escape downwards, as it normally would, and convert it into spiritual energy. Jalandhara Bandha prevents Prana from escaping the upper body; Uddiyana Bandha forces Prana up the Shushumna Nadi; and Mula Bandha, when engaged, prevents Apana escaping from the lower body and draws it up to unite with Prana.

Contraction of these muscles affects the nervous, circulatory, respiratory, endocrine, and energy systems. As endocrine glands are intimately related to the Chakras, it means Bandhas also affect the Chakras. On all the Chakras, the Bandhas are directly associated with the active stimulation of three Chakras – Mulabandha (Muladhara Chakra), Uddiyana Bandha (Manipura Chakra), and Jalandhara Bandha (Vishuddhi Chakra). Each of these physical, and practice locations, is related neurologically to a specific counterpart in the spinal cord, brain; and therefore, the psyche.

BANDHA TECHNIQUES

• Bandhas are advanced practice and should be attempted only under guidance.

• In learning Bandha techniques, you always begin with Jalandhar Bandha, before attempting to learn the other two.

JALANDHAR BANDHA

The Sanskrit word, “Jalan” means net and “Dhara” means stream or flow. This lock controls the network of Nadis in the neck. The physical manifestation of these Nadis is the blood vessels and the nerves of the neck. It is also called the throat lock. In Pranayama, there is a possibility of increasing the blood pressure, and accordingly, achieving Jalandhar Bandha. At the same time, Pranayama can help control blood pressure, protect the brain, and give energy to the brain instantly.

TECHNIQUE

• Sit on a folded blanket in Siddhasana (Press the perineum with the left heel and place the right heel on the left thigh) or any other comfortable posture. Place the palms on the knee; keep the neck and the spine straight. Close the eyes, and relax the whole body.

• Now inhale slowly, and deeply, and at the end of inhalation and the beginning of retention of breath, stretch the neck forward and press the chin firmly against the chest, into the jugular notch (the hollow formed in the neck), as far as possible.

• Straighten the arms by pressing the knee down with the palms.

• Stay in this final position for as long as the breath can be held comfortably. Do not strain.

• Then bring the chin up and exhale. This is one round.

• Repeat when the respiration has returned to normal. This practice may be repeated up to 5 times.

• This Bandha is ideally performed in conjuction with Pranayamas and Mudras. It can be practiced on its own or before meditation.

BENEFITS

Stretches the neck – pulling the spinal cord and the brain has subtle effects on the pituitary and pineal glands, while the forward flexion affects the thyroid, parathyroid, and thymus glands. At the same time, it stimulates the parasympathetic spinal area, in the medulla oblongata (situated at the bottom of the brain and the top of the spinal cord), regulating heart rate, respiration, blood pressure, etc.

Jalandhar Bandha also compresses the carotid sinuses, which are located on the carotid arteries – the main arteries in the neck. These sinuses help to regulate the circulatory and respiratory systems. By reducing sympathetic tone, depression, stress, anxiety, and anger, one achieves a sense of rest, relaxation, and general well-being.

PRECAUTION

People suffering from cervical spondylosis, high intracranial pressure, respiratory problems, vertigo, high and low blood pressure, and heart disease, should not practice Jalandhar Bandha on their own – unless advised by the Yoga experts – since long retention of the breath may bring about some strain on the heart.

UDDIYAN BANDHA

The Sanskrit word, “Uddiyana” means to rise up or to fly upward. This practice is so called because the physical lock applied to the body causes the diaphragm to rise towards the chest. Another meaning is that the physical lock helps Prana into Sushumna Nadi and that it flows upward to Sahasrara Chakra. Uddiyana Bandha can be combined with Nauli Shatkarma.

TECHNIQUE

Uddiyana Bandha can be practiced either standing or in sitting posture.

• In the standing posture, place the feet approximately two feet apart. Keep the spine straight, bend the knees slightly, and lean forward from the waist – far enough to place the palms just above the knees. Make sure the arms are straight.

• As you begin to exhale, you contract the abdomen and place the chin on the hollow of the throat. By the end of the exhalation, the abdomen should be fully contracted, drawn up and back toward the spine – by pressing the knees with the palms.

• With this contraction, the diaphragm rises and creates a cavity on the front side of the abdomen, under the rib cage. The back will curve slightly.

• The position is held as long as possible; do not strain and then release.

• This is one round. Repeat when the respiration has returned to normal. This practice may be repeated up to 5 times.

• When this Bandha is mastered, the navel moves toward the spine and the rectal and back muscles contract.

BENEFITS

Abdominal contraction compresses the digestive organs, adrenal glands, kidneys, and the most important – the solar plexus. Solar plexus has many subtle influences on the distribution of energy throughout the body. The energy has healing qualities and is experienced consciously as beneficial and enhancing our sense of well-being. Uddiyana Bandha tones the sympathetic nervous system, thus avoiding the effects of stress and anxiety in psychosomatic disease. This Bandha is the panacea for many abdominal and stomach ailments – including constipation, indigestion, worms, and diabetes – provided they are not chronic. The adrenal glands are balanced – removing lethargy, anxiety, and tension. It improves blood circulation to the whole trunk area and strengthens all the internal organs. The extra fat of the stomach is also melted off. The body becomes active and alert. Uddiyana Bandha is one of the finest exercises for the abdominal muscles.

PRECAUTION

• During Pranayama, this Bandha is to be practiced only in the sitting position. It must always be practiced on an empty stomach. Agnisar Kriya is an excellent preparatory practice.

• Never force the abdominal muscles outward; use force only in pulling the muscles in and upward.

• Do not practice this exercise if there is any problem of high blood pressure, hiatal hernia, ulcers, or heart disorders. Women should not practice it during menstruation or pregnancy.

MULA BANDHA

The Sanskrit word, “Mula” means root, firmly fixed, source, or cause. Together, the words Mula and Bandha refer to the contraction of Muladhara Chakra – the seat of Kundalini. This contraction is triggered at the root of the spine, the perineum. Mula Bandha is also known as the perineal lock. It occurs simultaneously at many levels. On the physical level, it is the physical contraction of muscles. However, when refined, Mula Bandha is the contraction of Muladhara Chakra. Thus, Mula Bandha is not just the contraction of the perineal body/cervix, but also the locking of Muladhara Chakra. The perineal body and cervix act as trigger points to enable us to locate the psychic centre of Muladhara Chakra.

TECHNIQUE

Sit on a folded blanket in Siddhasana posture. Keep the palms on the knees and slightly press them. Gently close the eyes and relax the whole body, by watching the natural breath for a while. Focus your awareness on the anus region. While exhaling, contract this region by squeezing the muscles in and up. Hold the contraction for some time, with normal breathing. Do not hold the breath. Repeat 10 times, with maximum contraction and total relaxation. With further practice, the duration can be increased 3 to 5 minutes.

BENEFITS

• This Bandha stimulates both the sensory-motor and the autonomic nervous systems in the pelvic region. When Mula Bandha is performed, pelvic stimulation activates parasympathetic fibres emerging from the pelvic spinal cord. Parasympathetic fibres emerge from the cervical (neck) and sacral (pelvic) areas only, while sympathetic fibres emerge from the thoracic (upper back) and lumbar (lower back) areas. Sympathetic nervous stimulation also occurs in Mula Bandha, but at a subdued level. The overall effect of stimulating both parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems is to re-balance these two major components of nervous activity in the body.

• This has very definite effects on the hypothalamus (responsible for the complete endocrine system), which relays its information to the whole limbic (emotional) system and the cerebral cortex (outer layer of the brain).

• It stimulates the uro-genital and excretory systems. Intestinal peristalsis is also stimulated, relieving constipation and piles. It is beneficial for anal fissures, ulcers, prostatitis, some cases of prostatic hypertrophy, and chronic pelvic infections.

• Because of the pressure on the anal sphincter, during Mula Bandha, heat is generated which causes Apana Vayu to move upward. The usual tendency of this Vayu is to move downward. However, this practice forces Apana to move upward and unite with Prana Vayu at the navel center. Ultimately, in the course of its upward journey, the energy aroused at the base of the spine assimilates Apana (at the Muladhara Chakra) and Prana (in the region of the navel and chest) and then reaches the forehead. Therefore, with the help of other Mudras and Maha-vedha Kriya, it is forced to enter into the central channel, Sushumna – leaving its normal course through Ida and Pingala. Eventually, Mula Bandha becomes spontaneous and effortless.

The perfection of this practice leads to a spontaneous re-alignment of the physical, mental, and psychic bodies – in preparation for spiritual awakening.

PRECAUTION

Mula Bandha raises the energies very fast and can precipitate symptoms of hyperactivity, if performed wrongly.

MAHA BANDHA

The Sanskrit word, “Maha” means great. Maha Bandha is called the great lock, as it combines all the three Bandhas in one practice.

TECHNIQUE

Sit on a folded blanket, in Siddhasana posture. Keep the palms on the knees and slightly press them. Gently close the eyes and relax the whole body, by watching the natural breath for a while. Exhale forcefully, and completely, through the mouth. Retain the breath outside. Perform Jalandhara, Uddiyana, and Mula Bandha – in this order. Hold the Bandhas and the breath as long as is comfortable, without straining. Then release Mula, Uddiyana, and Jalandhara Bandha – in this order. After coming back, inhale slowly. This is one round. Relax and let the breath return to normal before commencing the next round. Make 3-5 rounds.

BENEFITS

Maha Bandha gives the benefits of all three Bandhas. It affects the hormonal secretions of the pineal gland and regulates the entire endocrine system. The decaying, degenerative, and aging processes are checked, and every cell of the body is rejuvenated. It soothes anger and introverts the mind prior to meditation. When perfected, it can fully awaken Prana in the main Chakras. It leads to the merger of Prana, Apana, and Samana, in Agni Mandala, which is the culmination of all Pranayamas.

PRECAUTION

Do not attempt Maha Bandha until other three Bandhas have been mastered. People suffering from high or low blood pressure, heart conditions, hernia, stomach or intestinal ulcer, persons with physical weakness and those recovering from visceral ailments, should avoid this practice. Women should not practice it during menstruation or pregnancy.

IMPORTANCE OF BANDHAS

• The Bandhas play an important role in the cleansing processes of Yoga. Pranayama helps to reduce waste matter in the body, by directing the Agni, the fire of life. In the same way, by using the Bandhas, the Agni can be directed to the exact place where the rubbish has settled, blocking the flow of energy in the body. The Bandhas intensify the effect of the fire.

• The muscles, which are not generally used, are contracted in these Bandhas. This results in more of a blood supply to these muscles – thereby improving their efficiency.

BANDHAS AND ASANAS

These three Bandhas can be used during asana practice. The best asanas, for practicing Bandhas, are a few of the inverted postures – such as headstand, shoulder stand, and all postures in which we are lying flat on the back, such as Tadasana and sitting postures, with a straight spine – such as Mahamudra. Another simple position for practicing the Bandhas is Adhomukha Shavasna (the downward facing dog). The Bandhas are easy in these asanas because raising the rubbish into the flame with Uddiyana Bandha, and holding it there with Mula Bandha, is greatly assisted by the body mechanics of the posture. In all inverted postures, the rubbish is raised to sit above the flame. The flame burns up toward the rubbish and the rubbish moves down toward the flame. The practice of Bandhas is very difficult in asanas, such as backbend and twists, and is, therefore, best avoided.

NOTE

Do not use Bandhas throughout the entire asana practice. These should be practiced artfully and not obsessively.

BANDHAS AND PRANAYAMA

These three Bandhas can be used during Pranayama practice. When we use these Bandhas with Pranayama, they intensify the cleansing effect of Pranayama. Jalandhara Bandha positions the torso in such a way that the spine is held erect. This makes it easier for the prana to move the flame toward the rubbish that needs burning. Uddiyana Bandha then raises the rubbish up toward the flame, and Mula Bandha helps us leave it there long enough for the rubbish to be burned.

PRANAYAMA AND BANDHAS

• Omkar and Bhramari Pranayama can be done by applying Uddiyana and Mula Bandha.

• Shitali and Sitkari Pranayama can be practiced by applying three Bandhas together. For that – we should do the Pranayama with time ratio, that is 1:4:2:4—one is for inhalation, four times is for holding of the breath, two is for exhalation; again four times is for holding of the breath. We should apply the Bandhas while holding the breath.

• Anulome-vilome, Ujjayi, Kapalbhati, and Bhastrika can be done by applying Jalandhar Bandha. When we practice vigorous Pranayama, such as Kapalbhati and Bhastrika, we spend lots of energy by doing rapid breathing, Jalandhar Bandha helps us to get the energy back instantly.

In short, Jalandhar Bandha and Mula Bandha can be maintained during the whole process of inhalation, exhalation, and holding the breath. Uddiyana Bandha can only be done during breath retention, following exhalation. To intensify the practice, we must practice patiently without forcing the body or the breath.

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).

By Lynne Weston

Yoga is a way of developing the whole human being simultaneously. It is a matter of becoming free, integrated and centred. The person who is centred knows who they are and their inner confidence is unmistakable. They have a zest for living and are truly grateful for the blessings in their life. They radiate an aura of peace and contentment living each moment with mindfulness and positivity.

Health would be described as how the physical body is operating. Living and participating in life; not just existing. How we walk, talk, think, breathe, eat, our stamina, and how the body reacts to all that we put it through. When we say we are in a state of “health” we are referring to a state of wellbeing and balance. Physical health is meaningless, if not impossible, without a related mental, emotional and spiritual health.

When a person decides to takes control of their life-style of health and says “I am turning over a new leaf, I am changing my daily regime, my goal is now to become fit and healthy.” We would look at the many changes that they would have to make in their day to day existence. The first step on their new path would be that they would liberate themselves of “the chains that bound them” by a new way of thinking, recognizing that their body is a temple or if they prefer to see it as a Mercedes Benz they would realize that what enters the body or what petrol and maintenance that you give the car, is what performance and life that it will return to you, and with regular upkeep it will not break down and leave you stranded on life’s highways. It will be reliable and working in top functioning order, remembering how important the air in the tyres is, like the prana in your life. You can always give the car a wash and polish on the outside to look good, but it is the continual maintenance of the mechanical side as well, and dedication of realising what you put into anything is what you get back.

Having changed their lifestyle they would have become centred and calm and have a heightened awareness of all creation around them.

Yoga and health are like a marriage, both complimenting each other, working hand in hand, a team effort which becomes stronger with each encounter supporting one another, in facing life’s adversities as well as good times. Growing older together with grace, acceptance, tolerance, and knowledge.

Let’s start from the beginning of life. A baby’s arrival to this earth plane.

When a woman announces that she is expecting a baby, often the question is posed “do you prefer a boy or a girl?” her reply is frequently “I don’t care so long as my baby is healthy.”

The woman during pregnancy maintains a healthy lifestyle which includes diet, exercise, rest, plenty of fresh air, and breathing techniques which will especially be put to use for the birth, as will also the pre natal asanas.

During the incubation process the use of Bio-feedback technology like ultra sounds to see the baby and determine its sex , if required, or the position that it is in, and monitors for heartbeats are a vital technique that living in the 21st century has produced.

When the birth-day arrives, the baby is delivered and the first thing that is essential to life is the breath, the life force energy, the prana. With the wondrous event of life, the breathing is checked and established, all is well.

Breathing is a natural function of the body which happens without conscious effort. It is the body’s most vital process, and is the only autonomic function which we are also able to control. We know that we can stay alive without eating for a few weeks, without drinking for a few days, but irreversible brain damage occurs if we are deprived of air for more than a few minutes.

Efficient breathing is essential for good health as it supplies us with oxygen which is absorbed into the bloodstream within the lungs and then carried to all tissues and cells of the body. Oxygen is exchanged for carbon dioxide and other waste products, which are removed from the system through the breathing process . Poor breathing habits bring about low levels of oxygen, which impedes the removal of waste matter, and results in the retention of toxins.

As the prana passes through the nose it stimulates the sense of smell, nadis and the chakras. We have the sense of smell, sight, sound, touch, and taste. We also have a 6th sense which is our intuition – our inner sight.- Our connection to higher learning which we are all born with.

Energy flows through the spine, sending impulses to the brain by means of the nervous system, transmitting commands from the brain to the muscles and internal organs, controlling circulation, digestion, respiration, elimination and even the beating of the heart.

The baby’s breathing has been checked and in order. The mother enquires “has the baby got all fingers, toes, and limbs?”  ”Yes, all digits and limbs are in order”, the nurse replies.

Yoga also has limbs. There are eight limbs.

These limbs are a good instruction manual for rearing a child.

1. Yama Restraints – ethical disciplines – moral commandments – universal.

Non violence, truthfulness, non-stealing. Without disciplines and moral codes there is no respect or boundaries and that is when children have to be gently guided and shown the correct way and respect of all living things.

2. Niyama Observances – rules of conducting applying to individual discipline. Contentment, self control. Cultivation of a strong character through the Yogic disciplines, lack of complaint. Being shown the difference between “yes” the child may do something, and “no” the child may not do something, is an individual guiding pendulum for right and wrong.

3. Asanas – Bodily postures which promote health and wellbeing and can be done together sharing a common interest. The family that plays together, stays together.

4. Pranayama – Vital energy or breath control. How to compose yourself in difficult situations, using the breath as a vital tool. Learning to take control.

5. Pratyahara – Sense withdrawal, learning how to relax and release tension.

6. Dharna – Concentration useful with school work.

7. Dhyana - Meditation, an inner experience of stillness and peace.

8. Samadhi – A person in the state of samadhi; is in direct contact with pure truth, gaining knowledge directly. Showing the child how to meditate is the first step on this wonderful path that is in front of them, the gift from God is their life. Having taught the child about Karma he will practise understanding and do unto others as he would have them do unto him.

After the birth of the baby, the mother may wish to return to the weight and size she was prior to pregnancy. Asanas contract, relax or stretch the back muscles, keeping them in good condition. The spinal column is kept elastic as each vertebra, disc, ligament and tendon is made to work. The weight of the full term baby has put pressure on the sacral spine and a return to the asanas will help particularly with the pelvic exercises to regain her previous body type in healthy working order.

The way we move, walk, and talk is an expression of our life like an open window to our physical and emotional state. Good alignment and posture is imperative for the working of the respiratory system.

When rearing a baby it is important to find the correct balance in food, water, discipline, sleep, and know that some things in life just aren’t black or white we have to look to the middle grey area. This is also found in Yoga we need to find the Gunas the understanding between different natures and temperaments. Knowing that no two babies are the same. Everyone is a unique being. The qualities of the Gunas are

Sattva – Expressing itself in goodness, purity, lightness, spirituality.

Rajas – Seen as activeness, mobility, speed, restlessness, passion.

Tamas – Typified as passivity, inertia, immobility, sluggishness, earthbound, ignorance.

We need to be conscious of the Rajas (speed) and the Tamas (inertia) so we can find the balance the Sattva. Of the physical, mental and spiritual being.

All children have their own special talents latent or disclosed, we as parents need to foster these and allow the child to work and develop at their own pace. Some children work more on the left hand side of the brain and are mathematically inclined. Others work more with the right hand side of the brain and are creative and arty, each one contributing to mankind. Never compare one sibling to another for each one plays their role in life, bringing their special qualities to humankind.

The Aura is affected by words and cruel words can put holes in the aura. Health plays a large part of the Aura and each day the colours of the aura change as it reflects the state of our health and wellbeing.

Maya is a way of seeing things (Cosmic Illusion) for example if we look at one person, we could be looking at a mother, or a sister, or a daughter or a wife it depends on the “viewer.” So we deal with another aspect, the emotional aspect, which can affect our health and how we see and handle situations. We need to encourage “that with every negative situation there is always a positive outcome or reason”. Understanding and accepting, becomes part of our healthier lifestyle, and knowing everything happens for a reason on this earth plane, which is the school of life. We hopefully learn by our mistakes, and grow.

Relaxation teaches the art of relaxing each component of the physical body and begins a chain reaction of peace. ” I allow myself to relax, I am relaxing, I am at peace. Peace in, peace out,” and then this becomes reality. We are what we think. “With our minds, we can create a heaven, or a hell, the choice is ours.”

Working on the Mind we can find the benefits of colour therapy and music. Visualisation is enhanced by using colour as some people find it hard to visualise . When deciding on what colour to paint a nursery it is important to remember how colour affects us. If you painted the nursery red it would be too energetic and the child would have trouble sleeping. The pale colours of blue and green have a healing effect as does pink, which means “rose” and is said to be the language of angels. Even lemon has a softness like a little chicken’s feathers.

The lighting has an effect on humans as some people perform better on sunny days as when it is cold and bleak they just wish to hibernate like a bear. The Sun is the masculine energy, Ha, and is warm and golden yellow, whereas the moon is affected by tides, it is the female energy Tha, and is silvery blue. Even observing what colour each person is wearing is an incite into how they are feeling on that particular day.

Colour can be used in projection healing also. Visualising the part of the body that needs to be healed of an ache or pain and focusing the input of the colour to assist in this process. Inhaling bringing the colour into the particular area that is affected, and as you exhale, visualising taking the ache, pain, or toxins away and see it dissipating out into the universe, or going back into the ground. We start to expand our way of thinking knowing that there may be alternate ways of handling an ache or pain. Using the energy of the hands; the prana, and placing them on an area of the body that also may not be in optimum operation is just another technique. The hands may also be used above the area working with the prana, coming to the healer, working through the person being healed, connecting to the higher source for the healing of mankind. (to you, and through you). Chakra balancing is another form of healing, with the astral and physical body. Massaging the baby is a healing process.

Even our appetite for food may be determined by its attractive coloured presentation.

Also remembering sattva food and everything in moderation.

Music is uplifting to the soul . Lullabies are sung to the baby and also a gentle rocking motion helps to encourage sleep to the tired child. Mantras may also be used to bring peace to the infant.

The baby takes “baby steps” and as it grows it starts to walk, which is likened to the introduction to Yoga and the learning of the different asanas . Working gradually, and learning the benefits that they have on the different parts of the body . The child’s absorption of knowledge is expanded as each year unfolds and different experiences occurs, and hopefully, the child learns by trial and error.

These experiences have a great impact on the child’s health both physically, mentally, spiritually and emotionally, some people become emotional eaters, overeating for comfort from the food instead of looking into the real problem.

The teenage years are filled with many hormonal changes, we need to have balanced activity in the secretion glands. As the child’s body changes so too does the voice, their own ideas and independence comes to the fore. It has been said that a child is like the arrow in an Archer’s bow. We the parents are the bow, we can place the arrow and aim for the right direction but many factors come into play, wind velocity and turbulence but the greatest factor is Personal Responsibility for everyone shapes their own destiny. We are the soft cushion for the fall if needed.

Sometimes the adolescent’s world seems to be upside down, this too is reflective of inverted postures which help rejuvenate the body and mind. The effect of gravity has on our bodies is reversed which aids venous blood from the legs and abdomen to return to the heart and lungs. Fresh oxygenated blood is brought to the head. The brain is energised and stimulated which enhances the function of the intellect. The increased blood flow brings a flush of nutrients and clears away toxins, rejuvenating facial tissue and reducing the signs of ageing. Throat, ears, eyes and nose, in fact the whole head and neck, all receive an increased blood flow which helps them function more effectively.

All inverted poses have an effect on the pituitary gland which orchestrates all other endocrine glands. The chin is pressed to the chest which stimulates the thyroid and parathyroid glands which will affect and regulate metabolism. The heart, lungs, thymus and immune system are stimulated.

Meditation is the answer to grounding ourselves once again and seeing just what is important in our lives and what is irrelevant. Teaching others the connection to spirit and helping them to find the peace and perhaps the guidance of their guides. Having the knowledge and understanding that we are never alone, is a comforting blessing to all..

Emotions play a large part with our health. Perhaps with a warmth of a smile to one who has lost theirs, an outstretched hand to someone in need, a joyful gift or flower to another, or to yourself, just to celebrate the beauty of being. The last thing we think of at such times is the consequences to our health. Scientists have found that small pleasures may keep immune systems strong, and that pleasant events boost the immune system for as long as two days.

What do we do in yoga? We adopt body positions which make our bodies feel good, we foster attitudes which are totally positive, we expand our senses so that we feel and see the beauty in life, in ourselves and we practise meditation which creates the stillness barrier across which unhelpful thoughts and attitudes cannot pass. All these are immune-system strengthening, giving us good health and happiness.

We live our life to the blueprint and when it is time to depart this world we hopefully have realised just what life was all about. The infant, the youth, the teenager, the stages of career and marriage, becoming parents aging, not worrying about material possessions that you had earnestly collected in your younger life. The death of loved ones, the fostering of friends, the happy celebrations, laughter and tears. Like a computer print out of life we recall the different events and reactions to those events, and we can see how Karma is just a book-keeping of life, where the assets should out-way the liabilities.

We are just a soul that has taken a body to return to the school of life. This is now over and it is time to cut the cord and for the Astral body to depart and return “home”,

The child had the key which was Yoga and was shown how to use it. The child, and in turn, the adult; unlocked the doors of knowledge of the many different paths of yoga. Each one, in their own time, at the many different intervals of their life. Now they realize that treading the path of yoga, they saw their pattern of life unfold, and learnt that their reactions to events affected their outcomes and now know” that we don’t always get what we want we sometimes get what we really need.”

Yoga taught them the understanding of events, and helped realise that they were not treading a lonely path they actually had plenty of company from likeminded people. One day the key did fit perfectly into the lock and they found the gift of Yoga which is unity and bliss. Unity with all the universe, understanding, compassion, tolerance, respect, health, peace, love and harmony. Happiness was always within and all they needed to do was to turn within. “The inner self is filled with bliss, it is to experience the bliss, to come close to the self, that we practise Yoga.”

Gradually, the way of living was changed, and the partnership of Yoga and Health became the secret formula to a long and healthy happy life.

Yoga provided us with the tool of self-acceptance which is probably the most powerful tool of the human condition, and with the knowledge of the intrinsic Godliness of life itself. This, in turn, carried us into respect for all life, including our own, for all patterns of the human condition and gave us the awareness of the universal support and love which surrounded and sustained us. When those components formed the basis of our life, our state of “health” was reached.

Om Santi,

With the love of God and the Vital Energy Force I now go in peace I return to my Creator.

Peace be with you, peace be with you.

“WHAT IS DYING?” (Jo Buchanan).

A ship sails and I stand watching till it fades on the horizon.

Someone at my side says, “She is gone.”

Gone where?

Gone from my sight, that is all.

She is just as large as when I saw her.

The diminished size and total loss of sight is in me, not her.

And just at that moment, when someone at my side says,

She is gone,”

There are others who are watching her coming.

And other voices take up the glad shout.

“Here she comes!”

And that is dying.

……………………………………..…and so the cycle continues.

Lynne Weston is a certified Yoga teacher. She teaches classes in the Sydney, Australia area.

(THREE BODIES & FIVE SHEATHS)

By Dr. Rita Khanna

THE THREE BODIES

According to Yoga Shastras, we have three bodies. These three bodies consist of the physical body, astral or subtle body, and the casual or super-subtle body. Throughout the subtle body are energy channels, through which our life energy flows. Through regular practice of Yoga and pranayama, you can keep your physical body under control; it would be easier for you to reach your higher self. The astral, or the subtle body, is related to the mind and chakra energy system. Breathing exercises, the practice of prathyhara, and concentration, can help control the astral or subtle body. The casual or the super-subtle body is the finest body. It contains the soul itself and your connection to the God. You can communicate with this body through meditation and the attainment of samadhi or enlightenment.

THE FIVE SHEATHS OF EXISTENCE

Within these three bodies are five sheaths of existence, which are like layers of energy – each containing and governing different aspects of your body. They are the physical sheath (annamaya-kosha, the vital sheath (pranamaya-kosha), the mind sheath (manomaya-kosha), the intellect sheath (vijnanamaya-kosha), and the bliss sheath (anandamaya-kosha). These five sheaths are the covering of the self or the soul. Taittiriya Upanishad gives us the Pancha Kosha Viveka to help discriminate between the self and the non-self. They help us understand what is self and how these sheets move from the gross physical body to the subtle spiritual body. Once we develop an understanding of the five koshas, it helps us to slowly peel off these layers and bring us closer to our true identity.

PHYSICAL SHEATH (ANNAMAYA KOSHA) (Physical Body)

The word anna means food and maya means composed of. Physical sheath is composed of food, blood, flesh, bones, skin, hair, organs, and systems. This is the body, which is most familiar to us. It is also made of five elements namely earth, water, fire, air, and space. Each body system is related to a particular element; i.e. the skeletal system is related to earth, the circulatory and immune systems to water, the respiratory system to air, the digestive system to fire, and the central nervous system to space. This remains in a state of balance – only when all the elements are in synchronization. The gross, or physical body, obtained knowledge of the external world through ear, skin, eyes, tongue, and nose and does actions through the mouth, arms, legs, anus, and penis – which helps her for functioning of speech, holding, walking, excretion, and procreation. Due to the presence of the ego, this body undergoes six transformations: birth, growth, disease, old age, decay, and death and has qualities like I am fat or thin, I am white or black, I am young or old, I am man or a women, I am healthy or sick, attractive or unattractive, big or small. They feel separate from the self, and it is very difficult for them to leave these. It is our responsibility to take good care of this sheath and to re-define our relationship with our body through regular yogic asanas, cleansing kriyas, proper diet, and relaxation. As the body purifies, you begin to experience the inner bodies; energy and consciousness manifest in a subtler form. Then, you realize that the body is not the self. Hence, the self is different from the body, unchanging, ever pure, and free from modifications.

VITAL SHEATH (PRANAYMAYA KOSHA) (Astral Body)

The next layer of experience is pranamaya kosha – movement of the pranic force directing our physical and mental activities. This movement happens through nadis or channels, conductors of energy, which are controlled by the six chakras. Vital sheath is a subtler sheath when compared to annamaya kosha. This is composed of vital energy. As long as this vital energy exists in the organisms, life continues. This sheath is responsible for our physiological functions; namely breathing, digesting, metabolizing, circulation, endocrinal, neural, skeletal, muscular, etc. This body has qualities like hunger, thirst, sleep, fatigue, evacuation, and regeneration. These states come in cycles and depend upon external conditions, such as food, air, water, and other factors. Due to the presence of the ego, our body functions become imbalanced. To balance these systems, one of the methods of purification of the nadis, or channels, is through Nadi-sodhana pranayama. As you begin to experience this aspect of existence, you discover that this sheath is merely an illusion covering over the eternal self. Hence, the self is different from the body, unchanging, ever pure, and free from modifications.

THE MIND SHEATH (MANOMAYA KOSHA) (Astral Body –Lower Mind)

This sheath is the energy of action. This mental sheath is composed of two qualities, mana (mind) and buddhi (intellect). Mana is the rational, linear, sequential, thoughtful mind. Buddhi is the quality of discrimination, which comes after knowledge, after the removal, or the absence of ignorance. The former constitutes the manomaya kosha, while the latter is called the Vigyanmaya Kosha. Mind gives power to the senses – in sense perceptions and action. It collects the sensory information from the senses and sends them to the intellect for ascertaining their nature. This portion of the mind lacks the cognitive abilities of reasoning; void of any discrimination. People, residing in this layer, experience pain, pleasure, longing, doubt, fear, and the many tides of emotion. When the mind is cheerful, we are happy. When the mind is gloomy, we are depressed. We are at the mercy of the mind that waxes and wanes. We suffer from these because we gave all the powers to the mind and made it our master. These vrittis, of this mind, lead to habitual imbalances at manomaya kosha. You can learn to control the mind and intellect sheaths through breath control, the practice of sense withdrawal (pratyahara), and concentration techniques. When these techniques are done with a sense of total devotion, the body purifies and it loses its solidity. Then anger and serenity, sadness and happiness, sorrow and joy are each welcomed happily. As you begin to experience this aspect of existence, you discover that this sheath is merely an illusion, covering over the eternal self. Hence, the self is different from the body, unchanging, ever pure, and free from modifications. Therefore, the self is a witness of the Manomaya Kosha.

THE INTELLECT SHEATH (VIJNANAMAYA-KOSHA) (Astral Body-Higher Mind)

The Vijnanamaya kosha is the sheath of the intellect(buddhi) and intuitive knowledge/wisdom, which gives us the discriminative capability that helps to differentiate between virtues and vice, good and bad, right and wrong, truth and untruth. It controls the mind, the senses, the fructifying samskaras, and all activities of the body. This knowledge helps us for our inner growth, ethics, and morals. The intellect can be looked upon as having two components – one that is controlled by our ego, and driven by our past memories and impressions (samskaras), and the other which is controlled by our pure intuition. The ego-driven intellect can lead to actions, when it gets co-mingled with the memories and is clouded over by the manas, which results in pain and suffering. Its knowledge is affected by the moods of the mind and other factors. Through the practices of meditation, regular self-study, and enrichment of knowledge through libraries and discourses, could it then lead towards devotion. Our mind becomes purified and the intellect can then begin to depend more and more on the pure intuitive wisdom, rather than be influenced by the ego. As you begin to experience this aspect of existence, you discover that this sheath is merely an illusion covering over the eternal self. Hence, the self is different from the body, unchanging, ever pure, and free from modifications. Therefore, the self is a witness of the Vijnanamaya Kosha.

THE BLISS SHEATH (ANANDAMAYA KOSHA) (Casual Body)

When we can transcend the other four layers described above, we can begin to experience a sense of pure joy, which does not need any sensory input or any of the past experiences or impressions. This kosha is the finest, thinnest veil covering the self (atman), and could also be called the level of the soul. It contains the essence of an individual soul’s experiences of countless lifetimes and stage of spiritual evolution. On this level, there is a strong awareness about the oneness of the individual and the absolute. But as long as there is individuality, there must be a faint sense of ego. With the grace of God, you can get rid of ego by good deeds, self-suggested happiness, deep awareness of being (samadhi), and morning walks, could bring a person to this level of the self. Samadhi is the transcendent state of union with the divine. All the impurities and dross evaporate, and effulgence of soul is experienced. Then one can imagine an afterlife, where one no longer has a body, where there is no need for breath, where the mind doesn’t process data anymore. At that point, a human being experiences true divinity, the realization of self or God. The yogi, who resides in the bliss sheath, experiences absolute peace, joy, and love.

SELF / SOUL

The essence of human personality is the Soul. The soul is a unit of God’s omnipresent cosmic consciousness, which was never born and never dies. It is a pure, eternal, blissful, luminous entity, which is ever unchanging. A yogi, who does not see himself as white or black, man or women, fat or thin, etc. or does not associate himself with these qualities, realizes the self and gets liberated beyond death. Just as butter is removed from milk, by churning the mixture of curd, so also the butter of the Atman should be taken from the mixture of the five koshas – by the churning of constant meditation on the immortal Brahman or soul, which fictitiously appears as the sheaths. Hence, in reality, the self is the seer, knower, and the witness of the causal body, who is never limited by time and space or the dualities contained therein.

The Concept of Brahmn or Consciousness Through the Story of the Young Bhrigu

The Taittiriya Upanishad offers a cosmic perspective by throwing light on the concept of Brahmn, or consciousness, through the story of the young Bhrigu, who has set out in search of the bliss of Brahmn.

Varuna, the father of Bhrigu, sets the tone for his son’s initiation with this opening line: Food, vital force, eye, ear, mind, speech — these are the basis to the knowledge of Brahmn. He instructs him to do tapas, to meditate. Upon doing, Bhrigu finds himself concentrating on the idea of anna, or food, that nourishes and sustains all beings. Bhrigu understands the physicality of food to be the first principle, which pervades all matter and nourishes it, and understands this to be the physical manifestation, the gross cosmic virat swaroop or manifestation of Brahmn.

With this knowledge of the annamaya kosha, the physical sheath, that still leaves him with a feeling of incompleteness, Bhrigu goes back to his father to learn more about attaining to the knowledge of Brahmn; but the teacher directs him to delve deeper into the origin of food.

Bhrigus’s next meditation focuses on the life force, the vitality throbbing behind matter, the prana, which energises all matter and runs through all physical systems, as electricity runs through wires to generate power. Bhrigu recognizes this vitality to be behind the physical sheath, and the understanding of the pranamaya kosha, the energy-astral body, as the next manifestation of Brahmn . He goes back to his father.

Once again, Bhrigu goes back to meditate, entering the third phase of his spiritual journey, to focus on the subtler aspects of this energy, to go into the idea that is behind all this, that which has triggered the vitality. Bhrigu discovers that it is the mind that provides the stimulus for the vitality. It is the manomaya kosha, the mental sheath that triggers all senses of knowledge — though still instinctual only, but emanating from the mind itself. Bhrigu becomes aware that the mind, too, is a manifestation of Brahmn, but senses that this knowledge too is incomplete.

In the fourth phase of meditation, he enters the subtle mind, the vijnanakosha of buddhi, the intellectual ability to understand cause and effect, an awareness that enables the mind to distinguish and discriminate the cognitive sheath. The manifestation of Brahmn, as Intellect, excites Bhrigu – for it takes him closer to comprehending the real nature of things. Yet, the restlessness is back, prompting him to seek out the very origin of thought.

Eventually, Brighu enters the fifth and final phase of meditation at the behest of his father, Varuna , who helps him become aware of the inner space in which all of existence, sat, and all of consciousness, chit are to be found, leading to ananda, bliss. It is the sat-chit-ananda, or attainment of ultimate bliss, that satisfies the spiritual quest of the hither-to restless mind and body.

Brahmn manifests as every atom of existence and every perception of consciousness, but realizing this need, does not necessarily make one happy and content. Bhrigus’s intense desire to know Brahmn, leads him to that state of bliss, the anandamaya kosha, which lies beyond all thought and desire, and to the realization that the entire manifested world, reflects the bliss of Brahmn equally. The atman, the self, is manifested in five different sheaths, five different energy levels, each as essential and central to the knowledge of Brahmn as the other. The understanding of the five koshas leads one back to the self.

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.

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

NADIS

The Sanskrit word, “Nadi,” derives from the root, Nad, which means flow, motion, vibration. These nadis are creative energies of the subtle body. Just as the negative and positive forces of electricity flow through complex circuits; in the same way, vital force and mental force flow through every part of our body via these nadis. There are 72,000 nadis in the body with three main channels up the spine, right, left, and centre. These are known as ida, pingala, and sushumna. The left nostril is connected to the ida network of nadis; the right nostril is connected to the pingala network of nadis; and when both nostrils flow together, the main channel, or sushumna network, is stimulated. They connect at special points of intensity called chakras. When these nadis flow freely, we are vital and healthy; when it becomes weak or congested, we struggle with poor mental and physical health.

THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

The brain and the spinal cord, along with the nerves emanating, constitute the nervous system of the body. The nervous system is divided into two main systems: the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS). The central nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord. Peripheral nervous system consists of the nerves, which gather information, while others transmit orders. Peripheral nervous system is divided into two systems: somatic nervous system and autonomic nervous system. Somatic nerves participate in the organism’s relationship with its external environment. Autonomic nerves are more involved in regulating vital internal functions. The autonomic nervous system is divided into two categories: sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system goes into action to prepare the organism for physical or mental activity. The activation of the parasympathetic nervous system causes a general slowdown in the body’s functions in order to conserve energy. The Nadis determine the nature and the quality of the nervous system, with its extensive network of nerves and plexus covering the entire physical body. A healthy nervous system is the secret of vitality and rejuvenation.

THE GROSS and SUBTLE BODY

The subtle, or sukshma body, is within the gross or physical body. The gross body cannot do anything without the astral body. Every gross centre of the body has its astral centre. Ida, pingala, and sushumna nadis originate from the mooladhara chakra – at the anus and the root of the reproductory organ. From there, they separate and proceed into different directions to meet again at the ajna chakra located at the root of the nose between the eyebrows and approximately 2-1/2 inches into the brain. Ida nadi emerges from the left side of mooladhara and spirals upwards to the spinal cord, passing through each chakra in turn, forming a criss-cross pathway, which terminates at the left side of ajna chakra and ends up in the left nostril. Pingala nadi emerges from the right side of the mooladhara chakra and passes in an opposite manner to that of Ida, terminating at the right side of the ajna chakra and ending up in the right nostril. Sushumna nadi is the spiritual channel that terminates at the sahasrara chakra, at the crown of the head. So, it is clear that the gross body and the subtle body have a close relationship with each other. Practically, we can feel the desired effects that are produced through Yoga, pranayama, and meditation between these two centres.

 IDA NADI / SYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM

The word, “Ida,” means “comfort” and is located on our left sympathetic nervous system. It begins and ends on the left side of sushumna. Ida has a moonlike nature and female energy with a cooling effect. It is also known as the chandra or moon nadi. It courses from the right testicle to the left nostril and corresponds to the Ganges River. Ida is the introverted (passive), lunar nadi and controls all the mental processes and manages our emotions.When Ida is flowing, the breath will be more in the left nostril and the mental energy is dominant. At that time, any kind of mental work may be undertaken. It is like nectar, and gives strength and nourishment to the soul and the body. If Ida flows for a long time, beyond the normal schedule, this signifies some imbalances in the mental processes.

On a physical level, the left channel controls the left-hand side of the body and the right hemisphere of the brain. People, who make excessive use of this channel, are emotional, often dwell on the past, often feel guilty and are easily dominated by others. In extreme cases, they may fall prey to lethargy and depression because this channel feeds also into the skull area; pressure on the brain becomes excessive. The entire system is thrown off balance causing problems, such as mental breakdown, epilepsy, and senility (decay of the brain).

PINGALA NADI / SYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM

The word, “pingala,” means “tawny” and is located on our right sympathetic nervous system. It begins and ends to the right of sushumna. Pingala has a Sunlike nature and male energy with a heating effect. It is also known as surya or sun nadi. It courses from the left testicle to the right nostril and corresponds to the Yamuna River. Pingala is the extroverted (active), solar nadi and controls all the vital processes and manages our physical energy. When pingala is flowing, the breath will be more in the right nostril and the physical / vital energy is dominant. At that time, any kind of physical work may be undertaken. It is responsible for the growth of the body. If pingala flows for a long time, beyond the normal schedule, this signifies some imbalance in the pranic body.

On a physical level, the right channel controls the right-hand side of the body and the left hemisphere of the brain. People, who make excessive use of this channel are aggressive and have a dominating (ego). In extreme cases, the entire system is thrown off balance – causing problems and is often blinded by ego; and then decisions and actions taken, not only disrupt the lives of others, but also lead to heart disease

SUSHUMNA NADI & PARASYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM

The Sushumna nadi is located on our central parasympathetic nervous system, which is also known as middle path. The central channel begins in the triangular bone or sacrum and rises along the spinal column, until it reaches the top of the head. When ida and pingala nadis are purified and balanced, and the mind is controlled, then sushumna, the most important nadi, begins to flow. The physical organs and mental organs function simultaneously; this indicates that the mind is blissful, calm, pure, and balanced. The spiritual energy is in power and time is good for concentration, meditation, and worship. A person, entering this state, never complains of dispersion of mind. When sushumna flows, kundalini awakens and rises through the chakras. In subtle body terms, the sushumna nadi is the path to enlightenment.

At a physical level, this channel coordinates our involuntary or autonomic nervous system activities, such as heart beat, breathing, and reflex. We do not have conscious control over these activities. The parasympathetic nervous system, together with the sympathetic nervous system, constitutes the autonomic nervous system. It is responsible for our spiritual evolution and our physical, mental, and emotional balance.

BALANCING IDA and PINGALA

All activities are influenced by the flow of these nadis, which alternate approximately every sixty to ninety minutes. When there is a disturbance in the natural cycle, and the proper nostril does not open, body chemistry becomes disturbed – thus affecting physical, emotional, and mental state. For example, during sleep, Ida nadi flows. If pingala flows at night, sleep will be restlessness and disturbed. It may result in numerous adverse physiological changes, such as hypertension, anxiety, acidity, and ulcers. Likewise, while taking food, pingala nadi flows. If’ Ida flows while taking food, the digestive process may be slow, causing indigestion. To counter these changes, we should follow certain techniques to activate the parasympathetic nervous system. The parasympathetic nervous system counteracts the stress effect, calms you down, slows the heart rate, increases digestion, and so on.

NADI SHODHANA PRANAYAMA

Nadi shodhana pranayama is the simple act of changing the breath from one nostril to the other, reversing brain hemisphere dominance and altering chemical reactions taking place throughout the organism. Changing the breath helps the prevention of disease.

SITTING POSTURE

Sit in a comfortable position steadily. Keep the palm of the right hand facing the face. Bend the first two fingers next to the thumb inside. Now, put the right thumb on the right nostril and the last two fingers of the same hand should be used to press the left nostril. Remember, for the practice of this Pranayama, always start and finish the breathing from the left nostril.

TECHNIQUE

1. Breathe in through the left nostril. Close the left nostril with the ring and little fingers and breathe out through the right nostril.

2. Breathe in through the right nostril. Close the right nostril with the thumb and breathe out through the left nostril.

3. This completes one round of Nadi Shodhana.

4. Make 10-15 rounds like this.

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).