YOGA - Mind over Body
The Father of modern concept of Yoga was MAHARISHI PATANJALI of 3rd century B.C. He defines yoga as the complete mastery of mind and emotions. The philosophy of yoga tries to establish the concept 'Mind over Body'.
The ancient Indian Literature many forms of yoga. Of these the Hartha Yoga is well practised by many. It is a method involvinghighly developed scheme of exercises, feeding and breathing practices to regulate body's desires. These practices help to achieve final integration of all thoughts.
Yogic discipline is commonly described under 4 broad groups:
- technique of bodily health
- controlling of breath
- behavioural discipline and
- mental concentration.
It is being claimed that yogic exercises influncing the autonomic nervous system ensure better food utilisation and improved nourishment. It also provides proper relaxation and sleep. It is also claimed that significant changes will happen to body physiology. The changes may be in the form of :
- slower heart rate
- respiration rate
- lower cholesterol level
- blood sugar level and
- increased lymphocyte count
The Hatha Yoga is practised through various 'asanas'. It has been observed that 'Sarvangasana'(standing on shoulder) induced cardio-respiratory responses, 'Shirshasana'(standing on head) induced favourable physiological changes. Experimenters of yoga have found that respiratory responses were induced by 'Pranayama', a breathing yogic exercise.
It is being claimed that yoga is a way of life. Living a natural simple life, practicing yoga regularly, taking simple nutritive food and having absolute control of mental processes will enable a person to attain perfection and salvation. Thus yoga is the holistic approach to all aspects of life- physical, mental and spiritual.
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