Asanas

The daily asanas are a must for keeping the body fit and pure. These have been prescribed by our rishis for the control of our body and mind. The asana has been described as sitting in a posture, which is comfortable and which keeps the body straight and firm. To impart a state of effortlessness to the body, to do away with all the effects of over-indulgence of the body in worldly affairs and to provide it necessary rest is the object of asanas.

Regular practice of asanas results in the purification of veins and nerves and promotion of general health of the body. The asanas are of two types. Those which are performed for the sake of Dhyana (meditation) such as Padmasana, Siddhasana and Swastikasana fall in the first category. The second types of asanas are meant to gain physical health. They are Sarvangasana, Bhujangasana, Chakrasana etc. They tone up the entire body system and give it strength and vigor. There are several hundred asanas, alluded to by our sages. Here we will describe those essential ones which are most useful for a man’s health.

Pranayama

Prariayama is controlling the normal breathing cycle. It helps one to get rid of worldly desires and sensual drives and thereby it leads to knowledge. ignorance which covers the knowledge is destroyed. mind becomes capable of concentration. Manu has emphasised that is, evils are burnt by Pranayama.

Pranayama activates Sushumna and influences the entire nervous system thereby developing latent powers of the man. These powers are also called Siddhis, through which miracles can be performed.

Pratyahara

The withdrawal of the senses from their respective outside objects and projecting those inwards is Pratyahara. The senses are generally turbulent and restless. The practice of Pratyahara brings the senses under control, imparts to the body health and capability to enter Samadhi (super conscious state).

Through the practice of Yamas, Niyamas, Asanas and Prartayama, the body becomes pure and healthy, mind and senses more restrained and at peace. As a result, it is easy for him to achieve concentration. One gets a glimpse of the powers of God and starts merging himself into Him. All these developments and achievements prepare ground for Pratyahara.