by digitalplus | Feb 1, 2018 | Food
Food is a basic necessity and plays a vital role in building the entire Personality of an individual. All our physical strength, mental faculties and spiritual leaning is a sum and substance of the food that we eat. Our mind and feelings are shaped by what we consume. In recent times lots of diseases and health problems have increased due to our indiscriminate eating habits. The fast pace of the modern times has changed the entire food patterns of all and sundry. The old dictum of “Eat fresh and healthy and Stay wealthy” is slowly waning and is replaced by the modern spectre of fast food. Modern fast food and various unhealthy food habits have completely changed the dynamics of general Health and lifestyle of an individual. Several deadly diseases like various types of Cancer and Health issues like Obesity are on the rise. All these Health issues and other problems related to wrong eating practices can be solved by taking recourse to the Yogic food or Diet. The concept of Yogic food is becoming the order of the day in the present times owing to its salutary effects on our Body, Mind and Soul.
What is Yogic Food?
Any food that has a salutary and wholesome effect on our Body, Mind and Soul and transforms our whole being is called Yogic food. It is very helpful for both our Worldly and Spiritual progress. Yogic food is based on the ancient Ayurvedic and Yoga principles that were enunciated by the Indian Yogis of yore. Both Yoga and Ayurveda consider food as an indispensable component of our life. The Ancient yogis consider the Yogic food as Brahman (The Ultimate Reality underlying all phenomenon in Hindu scriptures) and the bedrock of our existence. They also believe that from food all beings are born, by food they live and into food they return.
Yogic food helps us to evolve both internally as well as externally. It is a Balanced diet which impacts not only our Physical health and thoughts but also our emotional and spiritual well being. It is also hailed as Lacto-vegetarian food. It consists of grains, pulses, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds along with milk products and honey. It totally excludes all the animal foods and eggs too. Yogic food is simple, natural and wholesome and it also considers the subtle effect of food on our mind and prana(life force or breath).
Yogic food dwells on the type and the quality of food to be consumed in details. It also points out clearly the type of foods to be avoided. It lays emphasis on the nourishment that we acquire from various sources of food and not on its flavour. Yogic food lays a great stress on the principle of moderation on anything that we eat or drink. Yogic food plays an important role in all round development of our body, mind and soul
Importance of Yogic food
There are four types of Yogic food:-
- To be chewed
- To be sucked
- To be licked
- To be drunk
When these four types of food are eaten by an individual, they get converted into Rasa and it is further divided into three parts:-
- The most vital part of this Rasa acts as a nourishment for our subtle body which includes the mind, intellect, ego etc
- The second or the middle part nurtures the Seven Dhatus(seven tissues) of our body
- The third and the last part is actually a Waste material. It is excreted out of our body through various means like carbon dioxide is thrown away by the lungs, sweat from skin, urine and stool from their respective organs.
Yogic food lays emphasis on three main principles:-
- Hitbhuk – One should always eat the proper type of food that is wholesome for our body, mind and soul. It stresses on the fact that we should always eat what is healthy and good for us. We should not become a slave of our taste buds and eat all types of food. We should choose such food items which increase our longevity and help in our overall development.
- Ritbhuk – One should always eat according to the prevailing season and it should be earned through righteous and honest means. Then only it will be beneficial for our body, mind and soul. It lays importance on the fact that whatever we eat should be obtained from ethical and pure means. The food should be prepared and eaten with purity of mind. The one who prepares the food should be kind and affectionate and the one who eats it should eat it by first praying to God. It also stresses that the food that we consume should be in accordance with the existing season.
- Mitbhuk – One should always eat in moderation that has a salutary effect on our body, mind and soul. It recommends a moderate quantity of everything one eats and drinks. Self-discipline in choice of food is important not only for our health but also for our spiritual evolution. It strictly prohibits overeating and overindulgence of any kind. It stresses the fact we should eat only eat those foods which are conducive for our health and avoid tasty and unwholesome food.
Yogic food comprises of a moderate diet which satisfies three- fourths of one’s hunger with food offered to God, one-fourth part should be kept empty. It is known as Mithara, the limited food or balanced diet.
Food is classified on the basis of Tri-gunas and is of the following three types namely Sattvika, Rajasika and Tamasika. Yogic food strictly advocates Sattvika food and strictly prohibits Rajasika and Tamasika food completely.
Sattvika food is one which increases vitality, energy, vigour, health, joy and mirthfulness. It is savoury oleaginous and wholesome. It helps in overall growth and development of body, mind and soul.
Rajasika food is bitter, sour, saline, hot, pungent, dry and burning. They stimulate the body and mind and lead to pain grief and disease as an outcome.
Tamasika food is stale, tasteless, stinking, cooked overnight, refused and impure. It leads to lethargy, restlessness and inertia as its end result.
Yogic food follows the Sanskrit Sutra completely:-
“Yuktahara-viharasya yukta –cestasya karmasu
Yukta-svapnavabodhasya yogo bhavati duhkha-ha”
One who is moderate in his habits of eating, sleeping, working and recreation can overcome all worldly pains and sorrows by practicing Yoga.
Everything that we consume acts as a food for our soul. The food that we eat has a close relation with our mind. Whenever we eat anything it becomes trebled, the gross particles become excrement, the middle particles become flesh and the finest particles become the mind. Therefore whenever we consume food the fine particles that rise upwards form the mind. Hence truly the mind is the food.
The Yogis believe that food gives rise to the prana(life force)that helps in maintaining our bodies and also gives us vitality and health. Thereby, the types of food that we choose to eat show the true measure of our conscious development. Yoga strongly recommends a pure and moral vegetarian diet, which helps in the evolution of Sattva guna. Sattva is the quality of love, understanding, relation and peace with all living beings.
The Yogis are of the view that food acts as the first interaction with the world surrounding us. If we do not eat with a feeling of love, relation and peace, then all other aspects of our life are bound to get affected. Sattva is based on the concept of ahimsa (non injury). A Sattvik food avoid all those foods that are involved with the killing or harming of animals. Sattvik foods also includes the foods grown in harmony with nature. It also includes ripened and natural foods.
In addition to it the foods that we consume should be prepared with love and positive feelings. Yogic food helps in increasing the prana and higher state of consciousness.
Yogic food surely provides a means for improving and enhancing our overall health and well being. It acts as a Prophylactic means to save us from the onslaught of deadly diseases and acts a “panacea for all ills” for sure. Evolution is better than Revolution. Let us gradually embrace this sublime concept laid down by the Ancient Indian Yogis and completely transform our Whole being.
by digitalplus | Jan 19, 2018 | Travel
India is a Spiritual land dotted with many holy places famous for their divine aura. It’s a version of Mini world in itself. It’s known all over the world as a land of all major Religions and its unique Culture and Philosophy. Scores of people around the globe visit India round the year to replenish themselves with its holy vibes.
India is full of many Spiritual jewels which are known for its unique vibes and divine ambience. Rishikesh is one of the Spiritual jewels of India. Rishikesh is truly a divine place which has so much to offer for any wanderlust. It is rightly hailed as the Yoga Capital of the World owing to its divine vibes. It has got everything to attract all kinds of globetrotters.
It is a perfect tourist spot for one and all. Yoga and Spirituality are its prime attractions for everyone across the globe. Rishikesh is the Entryway to the Himalayas in the Tehri Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. It is truly blessed by Nature with many divine gifts. The Great Himalayas and the Holy Ganges add beauty to its grandeur. It’s a magnificent place brimming with a unique sacred aura to elevate your dampened spirits. A divine tour to Rishikesh will surely rejuvenate your senses.
We have cherry-picked our top 10 places for you that are worth visiting in Holy Rishikesh. They are:
Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula: The Twin Swinging pivots of Rishikesh.
Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula are the crowning glory of Rishikesh. They are situated at a distance of 4 kms from the Railway Station. These two majestic architectural wonders offer a picturesque view of Rishikesh and are one of the top pilgrimage spots. They are long iron suspended bridges that connects the two banks of river Ganga. Laxman Jhula is a 450 feet long and 70 feet high bridge which links the two villages, Tapovan in Tehri Garhwal District and Jonk in Pauri Garhwal District spanning the river from west to east. It offers a magnificent view of Rishikesh. It owes its name to Laxman, the younger brother of Lord Rama and a great mythological figure of Ramayana.
Ram Jhula is the longer between the two bridges. It acts as a link between Sivananda Nagar of Muni Ki Reti in Tehri Garhwal District to Swargashram in Pauri Garhwal District, spanning from west to east. It presents a divine view of the holy Ganges and scores of holy temples situated on its banks. It owes its name to Lord Ramayana incarnation of God and the key figure of Ramayana. Both these bridges are emblematic landmarks of Rishikesh .
Triveni Ghat: It is one of the holiest river banks of Rishikesh. The word Triveni signifies the confluence of the three holy rivers namely the Ganges, Yamuna and Saraswati. It is usually crowded by scores of people owing to its sacred significance. Its holy ambience reaches a different level during the evening Ganga Aarti. It’s truly a divine sight to behold and tap its holy vibes during the ancient divine ritual of “Ganga Aarti”.The sacred aura and spiritual beauty of this place is truly awesome. It is said that taking a holy dip in it washes away all our sins and refines our heart and soul. A must visit place for sure.
Shivananda Ashram: The glory of Rishikesh is incomplete without mentioning the Divine Saint named Swami Sivananda. Swami Sivananda was instrumental in giving a timeless gift of spirituality to Rishikesh by his graceful presence and austerity. He was a Spiritual Giant who founded the Divine Life Society in 1936. It carries out various educational, cultural and spiritual activities for the Human advancement. Sivananda Ashram is dedicated to this great Saint and divine personality. The exterior view of the Ashram is known for its scenic beauty, verdant surroundings and ravishing view of the Ganges. Its interior is also famous for its riveting and holy ambience. It has many beautiful temples, meditation spots and small cottages which are worth visiting.
Beatles Cottage or Ashram: The Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram shot to fame after the famous musical group of Beatles visited this quiescent place in 1968. It changed its name from Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram to Beatles Cottage or Ashram. It is one of the symbolic attractions in Rishikesh. Its serene and calm ambience will soothe your senses for sure. It’s a divine spot with a magnetic aura to rivet your attention .It’s one of the most visited places owing to its divine vibes. A brief session of meditation at this place will surely rejuvenate your spirits. Its quaintness is too good to miss really.
Neelkantha Mahadeva Temple: Neelkantha Mahadeva Temple is the divine dwelling of Lord Shiva. The name Neelkantha draws its analogy from a legendary tale of Samudramanthan(Churning of ocean). Neelkantha signifies the blue throat of Lord Shiva when he drank the poison named “Halahal” during the Samudramanthan.(churning of Ocean).It is one of the holiest shrines and religious spot dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is situated at a distance of 32kms from Rishikesh at an altitude of 1675metres. It is known for its sacred vibes and divine aura. It is really famous for the legend of Samudramanthan which is illustrated in its inner side of Tomb. A freshwater Spring situated in the Temple is also a key attraction of this divine place. Lots of devotees take bath in it. It is one of the most visited places of Rishikesh. A must visit for all seekers of divinity.
Parmartha Niketan: It is one of the most famous Ashrams situated on the banks of the holy Ganges in Rishikesh. It was founded by Revered Swami Shukdevananda Ji. It is the largest Ashram in Rishikesh with a capacity of more than 1000 rooms. It is located in the lap of Himalayas and is well known for its calm, wholesome and divine ambience. It is one of the best places to stay for the tourists. It has all the basic amenities for every kind of visitor across the Globe. Lot of people visit this great Ashram throughout the year. It carries out a host of activities related to Vedic Education, Yoga and Spirituality. It’s renowned worldwide for its Hawan and Ganga Aarti performed on the banks of the Holy Ganges. The Ganga Aarti is performed twice a day in the morning and evening. It attracts lot of devotees and visitors because of its divine aura and holy vibes. Ganga Aarti confers its nearby surroundings with its holy Grace. Parmartha Niketan is world famous for its International Yoga Festival which is held every year.
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Jumpin Heights: Rishikesh is truly a paradise for all Adventure lovers. There are a number of Adventure spots in Rishikesh which attract a large number of tourists throughout the year. Jumpin Heights is surely one of them. It has got a large number of choices for all Adventure seekers.You will surely experience an adrenaline rush at this marvelous adventure destination. There are a plenty of options available for you at Jumpin Heights like Bungee Jumping, Flying Fox, Giant Swings and lots more. The Team of Experts is always available at Jumpin Heights to assist you. A must visit adventure spot.
Swarga Ashram: Swarga Ashram is one of the oldest Yoga Ashrams in India well known for its divine vibes and serene ambience. It lies between the Twin swinging bridges of Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula. It is one of the major tourist attractions for different people across the globe and is a perfect spot to soothe your senses. It is built in the loving memory of Swami Vishudhananda. Unlike the other Ashrams which are bubbling with activity this Ashram radiates a divine aura and is known for its tranquility. It offers you a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It is a perfect place for Meditation and filling ourselves with Spirituality .You should also behold the charm of the Sunrise and Sunset of this divine spot and enjoy its Natural setting.
Kaudiyala : It is a small Village situated at a distance of about 40kms from Rishikesh. It’s a famous Rafting spot and a must visit place for all Adventure lovers. It’s a well-known White water Rafting spot in the entire world. All the White water Rafting in Rishikesh is centered in and around Kaudiyala and its banks. It is always teeming with lots of Adventure seekers throughout the year. Lots of tourists also come here for Boating and Camping by river. It is also famous as a Biodiversity spot and offers a perfect sight for Bird lovers too. Apart from Trekking and Rafting classes it is quite famous for Rock Climbing also. A must visit for complete Adventure and pleasure.
Bharat Mandir : It is one of the holiest and oldest Temples of Lord Hrishikesh Narayan in India. According to mythology it is as old as Rishikesh! Located in the heart of Rishikesh, it is also one of the most visited tourist spots in Rishikesh. The great Spiritual Master Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya re-established the idol of its presiding deity on the eve of Basant Panchmi in 789 A.D. Every year on the eve of Basant Panchmi a figurative reinstallation is carried out. It is truly a divine temple known for its sacred ambience. Bharat temple is mentioned in many Hindu scripts and epics like Mahabharat, Vishnu Puran and Srimad Bhagwad. According to the legends it is believed that the one who perambulates 108 times around it on Akshya Tritya, and seek the blessings of Lord’s uncovered feet will be truly graced by Lord himself. All his wishes will be fulfilled. It has the same significance as that of the holy pilgrimage of Badrinath. There are many old trees in the premises of Bharat Mandir, the verdant surroundings of these old trees will surely calm your senses. The three main trees namely Vat (Banyan tree), Pipal (Bodhi tree) and Bel (Bengal Quince)represents the Trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. The Bharat Mandir Museum is a centre of attraction for many historians and archaeologists. It displays various sculptures, pottery and embellished bricks found during excavation. A must visit Temple.
by digitalplus | Jan 14, 2018 | Technology
Technology has become the buzzword of the modern world. It has become the order of the day in recent times. Technology has covered almost all spheres of our lives. Restaurant Industry is no exception and has benefited largely with the advent of technology. The entire Dining experience has undergone a paradigm shift with the influx of technology. The dynamics of both the Customer and the Restaurateur has changed drastically.
There are a number of ways in which the Technology boom has completely turnaround the Restaurant Industry. We have picked the top 5 Technological innovations for giving a fillip to any Restaurant. These are indispensable for any Restaurant who wants to dip their toes in the Ocean of Digital Marketing and Technology.
Booking System: The Online Booking and Sales has given an impetus to the Restaurant industry.it has helped both the Customers as well as the Restaurateurs by easing the process using Technology. With just a few clicks you can now book your table as per your convenience. The Online Booking system has proved quite handy for a Customer. It saves their time due to quick response time. Earlier the Customers had to visit the Restaurant physically for booking their table. It was too tedious and time consuming. The Online Booking has helped the restaurateur by making it quicker and precise. It has also helped them in better Capacity Management.Thanks to the Technology which has made it so easy and simple.
- Feedback Management System: It has provided an effective means to the Restaurateur to gauge their quality of meals and services. It is set in motion by receiving online inputs from the customers.
The Online Feedback System provides a real time feedback to the Restaurateur. It helps them to analyse and evaluate all their operations. It acts as a Management Information System. It improves their efficiency and they are able to deliver their best to their clients. The Customers are also benefitted by the Online Feedback System. The Online System speeds up the response time and all their complaints and suggestions are entertained quickly. It has led to a better Dining experience with every feedback received. In earlier times the feedback given by a Customer was through pen and paper which was cumbersome for them as well as the Restaurateur.
- Digital Loyalty Programme: It is one of the best ways to increase and retain the Customer base for the Restaurant industry. It gives immense benefits to the customers too by giving them attractive offers and various benefits. The program helps to tailor, make promotions for each customer base during their special days and occasions like birthday, anniversary, small weddings, reunions etc. It has gained currency in the recent times and has helped the Restaurant Industry to hold on their customers. It is a cost effective and technology helps to analyse, evaluate the effectiveness of each activity.
- Promotional Text Messaging: It is one of the most convenient and quick ways to connect to your Customers. Text messages can be used to send various coupons and promotions to increase your business. It is really a cost effective means for Marketing and Advertising. It also helps in enhancing revenue and accruing other benefits.
- Social Wi fi: Guest Wi-Fi has become an important and “must have” feature for every Restaurant in recent times. It helps all the restaurant goers to access “free Wi-Fi”. It also benefits the Restaurateurs by having an access to all the social activities of their Customers during their Dining experience. Technology assists in acquiring the customer records too, with simple analytics which helps in future customer communication.
by digitalplus | Nov 5, 2017 | Yoga
Purusha and prakriti are two abstract entities clearly defined in sankhya philosophy. It is quite similar to the yin and yang principles of Chinese philosophy. Sankhya philosophy is one of the six main schools of Indian philosophies also known as shad darshans. It is a dualistic and realistic philosophy which discusses the two main principles called purusha and prakriti in a detailed manner. Purusha and Prakriti are two basic, opposite, independent and eternal principles that are the main cause and reason behind the human existence. Purusha is a Sanskrit term which means spirit, person, self or consciousness in Indian philosophy. In Sankhya it means the principle of spirit or pure consciousness. It represents the male aspect of creation. Purusha is an inactive, unchangeable, universal and eternal entity. It is innumerable as there are human beings. Prakriti simply means nature. Prakriti is the principle of matter or substance. It is a non self without consciousness. Prakriti is active, changeable, earthly and eternal entity. It represents the female aspect of creation. The entire universe is created out of Prakriti or the fundamental matter. According to Sankhya the world is created as a result of the union between Purusha and Prakriti.
Sankhya in Brief
Sankhya is one of the oldest orthodox systems of Indian philosophy. It is founded by Sage Kapila. His work was originally known as Sankhyasutras.it contains six chapters and 526 sutras in all. A brilliant commentary was written on it by Vijyanabhikshu named Sankhya -Pravacana-Bhashya. It was further sustained and spread by Kapila’s disciple Asuri and his follower Panchashikha. The earliest reliable work on Sankhya that is available is called Sankhyakarikas by Isvarakrishna.it is also known as Sankhya Saptati. Many commententaries are wriiten on it like Sankhyakarika Bhashya of Gaudapada (A.D.700) and Sankhyatattva Kaumadi of Vachaspati(A.D.840).
Sankhya derives its name from Sankhya which means number, it mentions 25 ultimate principles in creation which justifies its name. It has been applied to Sankhya philosophy because it tries to find the right knowledge of reality by specifying the final objects of knowledge. Another meaning of Sankhya is jnana(samyak khyayate). It believes that jnana or right knowledge is the only means of liberation. Sankhya tries to know the knowledge of reality for ending all the pains and sufferings and attain liberation.It talks about the knowledge of the self which is clearly higher than what is mentioned in other philosophical systems except Vedanta. It is clearly characterized as the Sankhya in terms of pure metaphysical knowledge of the self. It is intellectual and theoretical in nature. It is a metaphysics of dualistic realism. It is dualistic because it speaks about only two types of ultimate realities namely purusha(spirit) and prakriti(matter). Sankhya shows an evident dualism between purusha and prakriti and further maintains the plurality of the purushas. It is silent on god. It is a pluralistic spiritualism and an aesthetic realism and rigid dualism. Sankhya is realistic as it believes that both the matter and spirit are equal and real. It is pluralistic also because it states that there are many purushas that coexist with prakriti in this world. Sankhya philosophy states that kaivalya or liberation from the birth-life-death-rebirth cycle as the final goal of human life. This liberation results in ultimate freedom for man from all the miseries and sufferings of human life. Sankhya says that that the main purpose of the evolution of the prakriti into this world is to give the purusha one more chance for liberation. The main cause of bondage of the purusha and his consequent suffering in the world is aviveka(ignorance, non- discrimination between himself as pure consciousness and prakriti which jada(the unconscious entity)it is this that is leading him from birth to death ,or from life to life again and again. Sankhya defines two kinds of liberation jivanmukti and videhamukti.
Jivanmukti is attained even while living here, the body continues to live for some more time, till the prabhdhakarmas(past deeds of previous lives)are exhausted. In this state the perfect being continues to live in the world, though not of the world.
Videhamukti means the final liberation that comes after the death of the body. Here the person will never come back to this material world. He will attain a perfect state free from all pain and suffering without bliss. However since chaitanya (consciousness) is his essence, he will always remain in his own state.
Aspects of Purusha (Consciousness) and Prakriti(Nature)
The Sankhya school of philosophy recognises two eternal principles called Purusha and Prakriti. The basic nature or Prakriti and the individual souls or Purusha coexist with one another. Purusha is eternal, something that does not create, uncreated, passive, absolute, infinite, pure, neither the cause nor the effect, consciousness and indestructible. Prakriti is eternal, uncreated something that creates, dynamic absolute, infinite, cause and active.
Sankhya states that a fine and subtle matter or principle is the basis of our physical existence.it is is called Prakriti or nature.it is the primal substance behind the universe.it is the material cause of the world, it is the first and foremost cause of all the gross and subtle objects. It is non self, incomprehensible and without consciousness.it gets affected and influenced by the Purusha(self or the spirit). It can only appear as the various objects of experience of the Purusha.
Prakriti is made up of three gunas, namely sattva, rajas and tamas. The term guna simply means quality or nature.but in sankhya philosophy it has a different meaning as a constituent (part or component). Sattva is associated with qualities like happiness, pleasure, compassion, being good, illuminating and constructive, rajas is associated with qualities like pain, suffering, chaos and impulsiveness; and tamas is associated with qualities like inactivity, lethargy, darkness, ignorance, destruction and negativity.
Sattva is the guna whose key elements are purity, fineness and subtlety. It is a constituent (part) related to lightness, brightness and pleasure. Sattva is associated with ego, mind and intelligence. Its connection with the consciousness is the strongest. Although sattva is the important condition for consciousness, consciousness forms the main basis of the purusha.
Rajas is the guna whose key elements are action, restlessness and passion.it is a constituent (part) related to actions of objects. Rajas is associated with activity and motion.in material things and objects motion and action are caused by rajas. In living beings activity, restlessness and pain are a result of rajas.
Tamas is the guna whose key elements are ignorance, dullness and inertia. It is a constituent(part)related to laziness and inaction.it opposes motion and activity in all material things and objects. In living beings it is associated with coarseness, negligence, carelessness, and inactivity. It is present in man as ignorance, insensitivity and inaction.
According to Sankhya, the effective cause of the world is Purusha and the material cause is the Prakriti. Here Purusha stands for “Supreme Spirit” and Prakriti stands for “Matter”. Purusha(spirit) is the first principle of sankhya. Prakriti(matter) is the second principle of Sankhya. Purusha is neither produced nor does it produce. Prakriti is not produced but it produces.
THEORY OF EVOLUTION ACCORDING TO SANKHYA
In ancient times the word Evolution (Parinama) was not used as in the modern sense. They saw it in a broad manner as not only as evolution of organic matter but atoms and consciousness also in connection with the soul.it was believed in olden times that the objective realty was not stable. Things changed from one form to another, within nature (prakriti) while it’s all-inclusive energy/matter remained stable. According to Sankhya nature is a blind force which is self-operating like a machine. All the causes and effects lie hidden in it. So it does not create anything new but brings out what is already present in it as a fixed program. Nature (prakriti) is both cause and effect. It is not created but creates. It is permanent but changeable. Things evolve in nature at the most basic and structural level with the elementary units called tattvas. Nature comes into action when it meets the purusha or individual soul. The changes in prakriti begins as it comes in contact with purusha. Their meeting causes the prakriti to become active and start evolving.
The creation or evolution of the world begins with the samyoga or effective contact of purusha(consciousness) and prakriti(matter).the totality of the karmas of the purushas disturbs the balance of gunas in prakriti and starts the process of evolution. So the first development with in nature upon contact with purusha is disbalance in the three qualities or gunas namely sattva(purity, dispassion and light),rajas(activity, passion and intensity)and tamas(inactivity, ignorance and darkness). As a result of the gunas mixing with one another, the first product of evolution of prakriti is mahat or buddhi( the cosmic intellect). It is the natural function of buddhi to manifest itself and other things. Buddhi is different from purusha or the self which goes beyond all physical things and qualities. But it is the base of all intellectual processes in all individual beings. After that the second product that arises directly out of mahat is called ahankara (cosmic ego, the principle of individuation). The function of ahankara is the feeling of “I and mine” (abhimana) it is because of ahankara that the self considers itself wrongly indeed to be an agent or a cause of action. A desirer of and striver for end and a feeling of ownership. There are three kinds of ahankara according to the predominance of one or the other three gunas.
The first one is called vaikarika or sattvika when the element of sattva predominates in it, second one is called taijasa or rajasa when the element of rajas predominates and the third one is called bhutadi or tamasa when the tamas element predominates. The sattva ahankara gives rise to the eleven organs, namely the five organs of perception (jnanendriya), the five organs of action (karmendriya), and the mind (manas). The tamasa ahankara gives rise to five subtle elements of earth, water, fire, air and ether (tanmatras). They further evolve into the five mahabhutas or gross elements (of earth, water, fire, air and ether). The rajas ahankara is involved in both the sattvika and tamasa ahankara, and supplies the energy needed for the change of sattva and tamas into their products.
In all, including the prakriti , there will now be 24 cosmic principles or elements. The rest of creation takes place by their permutation and combination, each purusha getting involved with a psycho-physical complex(body)according to his deeds (karma). There are two stages of evolution namely the psychical and the physical. The history of the evolved universe is a play of twenty four principles, of which prakriti is the first, the five gross elements are the last, and the thirteen organs(karanas)and five tanmatras are the intermediate ones.
The 24 realities (tattvas) emerge or evolve out of nature (prakriti) each having the predominance of one or more gunas. The 24 tattvas or evolutes of nature are:
- Prakriti(Nature)
- Mahat(The Great Principle)
- Buddhi(Discriminating, Reasoning and Causative Intelligence)
- Ahankara(Ego or Ego Principle)
- Manas(The Physical mind or Brain)
- The Five Panchendriyas(Sense Organs)
- The Five Karmendriyas(the organs of action)
- The Five Tanmatras(Subtle Elements)
- The Five Mahabhutas (Gross elements namely the Earth, Water, Air, Fire and other)
For further reading and proper understanding go through the following texts:-
- Bhagwad Gita
- Samkhya Philosophy in details
- Shad Darshans(Six Philosophies of India)
by digitalplus | Oct 25, 2017 | Yoga
Yoga is a traditional and cultural science of India. It is nearly 5,000-10,000 years old. It is considered both as an art as well as science from the past till now. It is an ancient practice evolved by the sages of India. It consists of eight stages of development in a step by step manner. It effects all the physical, mental, social and spiritual aspects of our life. Yoga is a physical system with a spiritual basis.
“Yoga” or “Yog” is a Sanskrit word which derives its origin from the root word “Yuj”. It has two main meanings—union (yujyati) and concentration (samadhau). In the sense of union, it means to combine, connect or join together the individual soul with the universal soul. The second sense of concentration means complete control over one’s senses and reach the state of pure awareness(Samadhi). It is one of the six great philosophies (shad darshans) of India. It is an ancient system of philosophy, lifestyle and techniques that helps in evolving the whole personality of a person.
DEFINATIONS OF YOGA
The word ‘’Yoga is defined by various people in different ways. It refers to different things in present times.
Ahirbudhyana samhita is an ancient scripture which defines yoga for the first time. It defines yoga as samyoga yoga itiyukto jivàtma paramãtmanah—Yoga is the union of the individual self (jivàtma) with the universal self (paramãtma).
A great sage Patanjali defines yoga as’’ yogaha chitta vritti nirodhah’’ which means the stoppage of all mental modifications. These modifications of the mind or chitta are called vrittis. In other words yoga is a mental discipline for keeping the fluctuations of thoughts under control, so that the consciousness (citta)is kept in a constant and stable state(stambha vritti).
In bhagwada geeta yoga is defined as samatvam yoga uchyate which means that yoga is a state of perfect balance or equanimity. A person practicing yoga remains at peace under all circumstances.
Yoga is also defined as yoga karmasu kaushalam which means yoga is skill in action. Yoga means union or integration of human personality.
BENEFITS OF YOGA ON OUR BODY
Regular practice of yoga brings about a complete transformation in our body .it helps in maintaining weight, makes our bones strong and lowers many ailments like heart disease, blood sugar level in diabetes, blood pressure and stress levels. It also improves our sense of balance , brain function, lung capacity and sexual functions. It provides relief in anxiety, reduces chronic neck and back pain. It also increases flexibility and changes gene expression.
YOGA FOR HEALTH, WELLNESS AND STRESS MANAGEMENT
Health and wellness are two factors that are closely linked with the lifestyle of an individual. Yoga provides the main basis of perfect health and wellness due to its comprehensive and holistic nature. Principles of yoga help its practitioners to develop and improve their health and deal with all kinds of stress in an effective way. A new concept called yogic “health insurance” can also be achieved by changing our perception about stress, improving our reaction towards stress and dealing with repressed stress in an effective way. The practice of yoga helps in reducing stress by various relaxation techniques. The three main elements of an individual i.e., body, mind and breathe of an individual are improved by practicing yoga, as they are likely affected by stress. Prayer and meditation are two powerful techniques used for stress management and as an alternative medicine.
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF YOGA
Yoga is the physical, mental, social and spiritual disciplined way of life. It is a way and view of life. Its philosophy and its practices aim at a balancing the different dimensions of human personality like mind, body and spirit. The main aim of yoga is to attain self-realization (moksha, kaivalya or nirvana) it is a state in which one is completely free from all miseries and sufferings of life. Yoga has many benefits in improving the overall quality of our life. The basic goal of yoga is gain balance and control in one’s life, to free oneself from all kinds of anxieties and stress and to provide a state of calmness. It comes from the regular practice of yogic asanas and pranayama or the breathing practices. The practice of yogic asanas help to overcome the limitations of the body. Yoga helps in reorienting and renewing the body both from inside and outside. It also relaxes the mind from all the ill effects of our modern life.
The different paths of yoga are based on different concepts and are reached by various methods. All of the different types of yoga lead to the same goal, that of self-realization. Our gross body which is the seat of the soul realizes its true identity by the practice of yoga.
Practice of yoga brings about a change in our life style and a complete transformation in our overall personality. It increases the longevity of our life.
The science of yoga is about training and transformation of mind and all other aspects of man. It helps the human being to go beyond the qualities of nature and experience perfect bliss.
The basic principle of yoga in our life is religious freedom and constant peace. Yoga is a universal dharma.
Yoga is not related to any particular religion. It is the cause of spirituality and timeless wisdom, the basis of all religions. Yoga is beyond all religions and shows the way to unity.
For more details on yoga kindly refer the following texts:-
- Patanjali Yoga Sutras
- Bhagwad Gita
- Hatha Yoga Pradipika
by digitalplus | Jun 15, 2017 | Yoga
Trataka or yogic practice of concentrated gazing is an ancient hatha yoga exercise used for all round development of our body, mind and soul. The meaning of word trataka is “to look fixedly” or “to stare pointedly”. The concept of trataka is defined clearly by some yogis and old yoga texts like hatha yoga pradipika. This is how hatha yoga pradipika defines it:
Nireekshaennischaladrsâ sukshmalakshya samâhita
Asrusampâtaparyantam âchâryaisrtâtakam smrtam
Being calm, a practitioner should gaze steadily at a small mark (a small thing), till eyes are filled with tears. This is called trataka by the âchâryas.
It comes under one of the shatkarmas or shatkriyas—six purification techniques in hatha yoga designed to make the body strong and healthy. It is an extremely powerful technique which helps us to cure and improve all eye disorders, removes laziness and controlling our mind. It actually aids in directing the nervous system in a definite direction and also increases our energy level. It quietens all our mental faculties and helps in attaining complete concentration and peace of mind.
Types of Trataka
Conventionally there are three kinds of trataka that can be practiced: Antar trataka, Madhya trataka and Bahya trataka.
Antar Trataka(Internal Gazing) : This is done with closed eyes and we have to imagine that we are gazing in the midpoint of our two eyebrows(bhrumadhya dhrishti), or heart, navel or any other internal organ.
Madhya Trataka(Centre Gazing) : In this exercise still gaze is fixed on centre of the eye(bhrumadhya)or tip of the nose(nasagra)or any nearby object made of any material. It can be practiced with aum written in paper, or concentric circles having a black dot in its middle, or a single black dot with open eyes.
Bahya Trataka(External Gazing) : It is performed by fixing our gaze on an distant object like rising sun, moon or a bright planet.
Practice of Trataka
Trataka is practiced by gazing at a fixed point or object without blinking the eyes. The main objective is to bring the mind into focus, and control its wavering tendencies thus making it single pointed and arouse the inner vision. All the thoughts and powers of mind are directed into an unbroken flow. It should be done in a relaxed way without any stress.after achieving this state the hidden potential and powers of mind are awakened naturally.
Technique of Trataka
Trataka is practiced by sitting on ground in any of these postures like padmasana(lotus posture), ardha padmasana or sukhasana(comfortable sitting posture) keeping the spine and the back straight. A cow’s ghee lamp is placed at the same level of your eyes at a distance of one meter. Now keeping the mind relaxed one should look at the bright portion of the flame without blinking, till the tears start coming out of your eyes. This is the last phase of trataka. After doing this the eyes should be closed for a while and the practitioner should relax and sit quietly for 3-5 minutes and then slowly open his eyes. The exercise can be repeated 2 to 3 times. It is advised that after performing trataka one should wash his eyes and face with water. The time period of trataka from the beginning till the rolling down of tears differs from person to person. It also depends on the mental condition of the individual. The duration of trataka in normal individuals is generally 3-5 minutes and some people can extended the practice to longer periods.
Benefits of doing Trataka
Hatha yoga states that if trataka is done regularly ,it helps in curing all types of eye related problems and overcoming laziness.regular practice of trataka assists in the practice of shambhavi mudra which finally leads to a state of dharana(contemplation). The practitioner gets a great vision and intuitive insight.
According to Gherand Samhita a yogic text trataka helps in training and guiding the nervous system in a particular direction. It also aids in reducing and curing all kinds of mental tensions. It leads to a state of peacefulness and calmness. The sleep pattern is corrected within a small time with the practice of trataka. Its curing and improving tendency depends upon the mental and physical state of a person. It also assists in arising hypnotic powers and sixth sense if practiced regularly. Trataka acts as a means of advancement between physically oriented exercises and mental exercises which finally lead to higher awakening. It acts as a vital link between hatha yoga and raja yoga. Conventionally it comes under hatha yoga but it may also be considered as a part of raja yoga.
Physiology of Trataka
Trataka is really helpful in removing all kinds of neural disorders and blockages and it also assists an individual in gaining deep concentration and meditation. The practice of trataka is very conducive in gaining control on our parasympathetic nervous system,lowering of heart rate and respiration rate. It also increases the amplitude of plthysmogram(vasodilation). It increases the peripheral blood circulation of our body. It aids in gaining complete mastery of our mind by eliminating all the emotional disturbances. All kinds of anxieties are removed by doing trataka regularly. Practicing trataka quietens our mental faculties and relaxes our mind by producing well modulated chain of alpha frequency. It is a process of purification. It acts as a catharsis or cleansing by eliminating all our repressed and suppressed emotions and desires from the subconscious level. The practitioner of trataka experiences great relaxation and state of calmness and peace at both physical and mental level.
Precautions
Avoid using candle or other lamps for doing trataka. Always use cow’s ghee lamp for practicing trataka for best results. Do not practice trataka on a flickering flame. Hypersensative persons should do trataka after doing shavasana. Emotionally and mentally disturbed people should do trataka only after practicing the basic postures(asanas) and processes(kriyas), never rub your eyes after doing trataka. Do not strain your eyes too much and do it as per your capacity. Do not read anything or watch television after doing trataka.
