A mind loses its equilibrium when any external or internal problem strains it harshly. Consequently, its functioning gets disturbed and its harmony begins to diminish, slowly or rapidly, depending upon the individual's state of mental health. The person so affected for a long period, became mentally sick with an intensity proportionate to the degree of harmony lost. As a result the individuals thought, action, manner, behavior, and outlook become imbalance and take various forms and shapes of abnormal expression. This can involve person of any age, sex, of any socio-economic background and of any land.
Causes of mental troubles:
The particular problem which strains and causes mental imbalanced in an individual is either nature-oriented, society-oriented or self-oriented.
The problem arising out of nature could be in the form of some natural calamity, danger from certain animate creatures, and the peculiarity of natural phenomenon. The societal problems, likewise, could be religious, ethnic, racial, economic, political, etc., or also they might involve the varied problems of adjustment to certain customs, manners, ways of life, etc., of a particular community. Similarly, there could be countless problems of individuals own creation, which arise because of certain beliefs, faith, notions, habits, manners and also because of inner feelings such as, hatred, jealousy, revenge, love, romance, likes and dislikes.
People of every society, be that individual, agrarian, tribal or primitive, have been faced with various problems arising out of these three above mention sources, more or less, in the same way as we have to face today. Though the nature and forms of human problems have changed because of changes in social conditions, yet basically, they remain the same.
Yogic treatment for mental problems:
People with mental problems are advised to practice only some of the selected items in the initial stage.
First week: It should begin with the practice of Ujjayee Pranayama in 'lying position'. They should practice only five rounds of it daily. After making five rounds of Ujjayee, they should practice Suryanamaskar Asana and Uttanpada Asana. But do not make more than five rounds of each.
When all the three above mentioned items have been practiced, the practitioner should rest either in Shava Asana or by just lying on the back with normal breathing. This rest should be for five minutes at the end of all the three items.
Second and Third week: During the second week they should add the following asana: Paschimottan Asana, Bhujanga Asana, and Trikona Asana. After practicing all the asanas and the Pranayama mentioned above, they should now rest in Shava Asana for ten to fifteen minutes.
Fourth week: During the fourth week they should gradually add either all the asanas given below or they should choose and practice only those which they can perform comfortably: Sarvanga Asana, Matsya Asana, Dhanur Asana and Hala Asana.
When the practice of Pranayama and asanas have been regularized for about a month they should add the practice of concentration as describe below.
Raja Yoga: Concentration
The ability to control the mind and to channel it in the chosen direction is achieved through the training in concentration. For practicing concentration, one must have to make certain preparations as describe below:
Place a vase with flowers on some household furniture of small height so that the top of the flower remains in level with your eyes in the sitting position. There should be a distance of about five feet between the object and the practitioner.
Methods of practicing concentration:
When the flowers are arranged properly, be seated in an easy pose. For making this easy pose, you have to fold both the legs at the knees and put the body weight on the floor. After being in easy pose, first bring the left hand on the lap and put the right hand on the palm of the left hand. This will make your right palm facing upwards on the top of the left palm.
Then make the body straight. Your hand, neck and the spine should be in one line and straight up. Let the body be relaxed while keeping it firm in straight-up position. You are now ready to begin the practice of dharana (concentration), the first step of controlling the fluctuation of the mind.
Now look at the flower petals. Keep looking for about ten seconds and try not to blink the eyes. When you have looked at the flower for ten seconds, then close your eyes gently and try to see the shape of the flower in your mind. After keeping the eyes closed for ten seconds, open them and again look at the flower for ten seconds. Repeat this process of seeing closing and seeing. That is, seeing through the eyes, closing the eyes and then seeing through the inner eye. Repeat this process only five times in one session during the first week. Gradually develop it up to ten and then upon fifteen times, which should remain as a limit.
When the practice is over, keep sitting still. Now loosen the body and sit in a relaxed way for two minutes.
Caution: The total time devoted to this practice of concentration should not exceed more than ten to fifteen minutes.
Testing concentration:
While practicing, when you do not see anything through the inner eye, you have not gained concentration. While practicing, when you see some other objects through your inner eye but not the one placed before your outer eyes, you are improving but still have not gained concentration. But while practicing, when you see the shape, for up to 5 seconds you have gained concentration. When you can hold the same shape of image for up to 10 seconds, you have gained concentration, your mental sickness or disorders are gone and you are fully restored to normal life.
Article Source : EzineArticles.com
Saturday, November 14
Friday, October 30
Yoga - Yoga Optimises Your Endocrine System and Thyroid Gland Function For Enhanced Mood and Stability
Yoga practice aims for internal balance. Fundamentally this involves optimisation of your endocrine system. Yoga postures and breathing techniques, in conjunction with meditation practices and chanting, stimulate your endocrine glands to enhance their functioning. This is achieved by internal massage on muscles and spine, by internal massage through sounds, by improving circulation, by stimulation of body areas which have connections to specific organs as demonstrated through reflexology techniques, focusing on chakras, and exercising the triple warmer muscles of your thorax.
Your endocrine system consists of glands that release chemical messages called 'hormones' to regulate your organism's functions. Hormones are involved in growth and development, tissue function, metabolism (affecting weight regulation and hunger), and in your mood. They play a role in your experiencing relaxation or stress, pleasure or frustration, and fear or joy. Scientific experiments prove the relationship between our moods as reaction to external stimuli or circumstances, as with film themes, and hormone secretion. We know that hormonal imbalances affect our mood, and thus our decision-making, in undesirable ways. Consequences of our day-to-day choices will inevitably amount to change the direction of our lives. In this light, Yoga's beneficial effect on our endocrine system is of paramount importance to all regardless of age or gender.
Your body 'chakras' or energy foci keep close relation with your internal glands that constitute your endocrine system. Yogis understand that when the pineal gland and the pituitary gland (or hypophysis) receive sufficient energy, they will channel impulses from the other endocrine glands in synchronicity to optimise rhythms for good health. Your pineal gland corresponds to your 'third eye' and is linked to your developing transcendental wisdom. Yoga meditation techniques powerfully stimulate this gland. Your pituitary gland, at the base of your brain, relates to inspiration and intuition. Its functioning is enhanced by The Archway yoga posture. A very pleasant practice to promote emotional balance through your endocrine system is the Kundalini Yoga Sat Nam (True Self) meditation exercise using breathing and chanting techniques.
Your thyroid gland, found below your larynx, or below Adam's apple in men, is responsible for your body's energy burning rate, and for your body's sensitivity to other hormones. It produces the thyroid hormones Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3), involved in regulating your metabolism, and in the growth and rate of function of other bodily systems. It is controlled by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. In Yoga, it is connected to your chakra visshudda, which relates to your communication skills. Your thyroid's functions are directly linked to your mood. When this gland becomes overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism) we experience undesirable effects. Excessive thyroid hormonal secretion produces nervousness, irritability, excessive hunger, palpitations, laboured breathing and an abnormally fast digestion. An underactive thyroid results in our apathy and tiredness. The inverted yoga posture Head Stand greatly enhances the functioning of your thyroid gland by bringing an increased amount of blood to your throat area, resulting especially helpful in execution with the Breath of Fire in Kundalini Yoga. The Throat Lotus Kriya combines exercises with powerful yoga breathing techniques to work your thyroid and parathyroid glands.
The thymus gland, also part of your endocrine system and located under your breastbone, has a central role in keeping a strong immune system. In Yoga, it is connected to your anahata chakra, relating to your capacity for loving and opening up to others. The Throat Lotus Kriya also stimulates this gland.
Your adrenal glands, sitting above your kidneys, release hormones in conjunction to stress due to our fear or frustration, and also when hipoglucemia occurs. This results in the hyperactive state of 'fight or flight'. If we don't respond to this state through movement as intended by its bodily mechanism then we enter a state of stress. These glands of your endocrine system are connected to your manipura chakra relating to power-seeking, perseverance and will-power. The Camel yoga posture enhances blood flow through your suprarenal glands.
Your gonads secrete sex hormones and affect your vitality.They connect with your svadisthana chakra in relation to pleasure, creativity and joy of life. Yoga exercises and meditation are of help to men and women experiencing changes in hormonal levels due to aging. Women dealing with the perimenopause or menopause find relief from stress, and production of stress hormones by their bodies is reduced. Yoga's inverted postures, as the Downward Facing Dog, direct blood towards our pineal, pituitary, thyroid and hypothalamus glands. This can help stabilise severe hormonal fluctuations. It is important here to note contraindications to yoga's inverted postures for people with high blood pressure, hyperactive thyroid, Graves disease, glaucoma, and detached retina. If this includes you, please be sure to consult with a professional for evaluation and advice.
The invaluable benefits to be experienced through our mood and stability by engaging in yoga practice are not to be dismissed by anyone who wishes to enhance their well-being. This holds regardless of your present condition. You will undoubtedly enrich your life through these simple techniques, be it to elevate your wellness to an even higher level, or to mark the start of a rising stage that promotes healing and comfort. Whatever your situation, yoga will lead your way to unprecedented well-being.
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Your endocrine system consists of glands that release chemical messages called 'hormones' to regulate your organism's functions. Hormones are involved in growth and development, tissue function, metabolism (affecting weight regulation and hunger), and in your mood. They play a role in your experiencing relaxation or stress, pleasure or frustration, and fear or joy. Scientific experiments prove the relationship between our moods as reaction to external stimuli or circumstances, as with film themes, and hormone secretion. We know that hormonal imbalances affect our mood, and thus our decision-making, in undesirable ways. Consequences of our day-to-day choices will inevitably amount to change the direction of our lives. In this light, Yoga's beneficial effect on our endocrine system is of paramount importance to all regardless of age or gender.
Your body 'chakras' or energy foci keep close relation with your internal glands that constitute your endocrine system. Yogis understand that when the pineal gland and the pituitary gland (or hypophysis) receive sufficient energy, they will channel impulses from the other endocrine glands in synchronicity to optimise rhythms for good health. Your pineal gland corresponds to your 'third eye' and is linked to your developing transcendental wisdom. Yoga meditation techniques powerfully stimulate this gland. Your pituitary gland, at the base of your brain, relates to inspiration and intuition. Its functioning is enhanced by The Archway yoga posture. A very pleasant practice to promote emotional balance through your endocrine system is the Kundalini Yoga Sat Nam (True Self) meditation exercise using breathing and chanting techniques.
Your thyroid gland, found below your larynx, or below Adam's apple in men, is responsible for your body's energy burning rate, and for your body's sensitivity to other hormones. It produces the thyroid hormones Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3), involved in regulating your metabolism, and in the growth and rate of function of other bodily systems. It is controlled by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. In Yoga, it is connected to your chakra visshudda, which relates to your communication skills. Your thyroid's functions are directly linked to your mood. When this gland becomes overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism) we experience undesirable effects. Excessive thyroid hormonal secretion produces nervousness, irritability, excessive hunger, palpitations, laboured breathing and an abnormally fast digestion. An underactive thyroid results in our apathy and tiredness. The inverted yoga posture Head Stand greatly enhances the functioning of your thyroid gland by bringing an increased amount of blood to your throat area, resulting especially helpful in execution with the Breath of Fire in Kundalini Yoga. The Throat Lotus Kriya combines exercises with powerful yoga breathing techniques to work your thyroid and parathyroid glands.
The thymus gland, also part of your endocrine system and located under your breastbone, has a central role in keeping a strong immune system. In Yoga, it is connected to your anahata chakra, relating to your capacity for loving and opening up to others. The Throat Lotus Kriya also stimulates this gland.
Your adrenal glands, sitting above your kidneys, release hormones in conjunction to stress due to our fear or frustration, and also when hipoglucemia occurs. This results in the hyperactive state of 'fight or flight'. If we don't respond to this state through movement as intended by its bodily mechanism then we enter a state of stress. These glands of your endocrine system are connected to your manipura chakra relating to power-seeking, perseverance and will-power. The Camel yoga posture enhances blood flow through your suprarenal glands.
Your gonads secrete sex hormones and affect your vitality.They connect with your svadisthana chakra in relation to pleasure, creativity and joy of life. Yoga exercises and meditation are of help to men and women experiencing changes in hormonal levels due to aging. Women dealing with the perimenopause or menopause find relief from stress, and production of stress hormones by their bodies is reduced. Yoga's inverted postures, as the Downward Facing Dog, direct blood towards our pineal, pituitary, thyroid and hypothalamus glands. This can help stabilise severe hormonal fluctuations. It is important here to note contraindications to yoga's inverted postures for people with high blood pressure, hyperactive thyroid, Graves disease, glaucoma, and detached retina. If this includes you, please be sure to consult with a professional for evaluation and advice.
The invaluable benefits to be experienced through our mood and stability by engaging in yoga practice are not to be dismissed by anyone who wishes to enhance their well-being. This holds regardless of your present condition. You will undoubtedly enrich your life through these simple techniques, be it to elevate your wellness to an even higher level, or to mark the start of a rising stage that promotes healing and comfort. Whatever your situation, yoga will lead your way to unprecedented well-being.
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Saturday, September 26
Yoga - Guide To Sciatica Exercise
Sciatica Exercise
Sciatica Exercise Benefits
Many health practitioners stress that daily exercises for relieving sciatica are crucial for preventing repeat bouts of the condition. Aerobic exercise increases circulation, stimulating the flow of nutrients to all parts of the body, especially the spinal area. Strengthening sciatica exercise helps with keeping the posture aligned and the back properly supported. Stretching positions are also great exercises for relieving sciatica symptoms and preventing recurrences. When the body is loose and flexible, back related injuries and muscle spasms are less common.
Pilates and the “Core”
One type of sciatica exercise that addresses all three issues is Pilates. This sciatica exercise is actually a routine of exercises that work all the major muscles of the body while placing emphasis on the “core”, a term used to describe the abdomen and back muscles which support the torso. Exercises are performed either on specially designed machines or done as a specific routine on a mat. Joseph H. Pilates, the creator of this type of exercise, believed that the quality of the movements should be stressed rather than the quantity. Each movement is performed an average of only five repetitions and done in cadence to proper breathing. All of the exercises can be modified to fit individual limitations. It is important to find a certified Pilates instructor because the movements need to be done precisely. Also, a trained instructor will have had extensive training in anatomy, rehabilitative techniques and body mechanics as well as being versed in the methods created by Joseph H. Pilates.
Yoga Postures
Yoga, another form of sciatica exercise which strengthens and stretches muscles and increases circulation, can be of great benefit to sciatica sufferers. The study of yoga actually encompasses areas from the spiritual to the physical, but one area, asanas, or the physical yoga postures, can help relieve symptoms of sciatica. While one can benefit from following yoga routines from tapes, DVD’s and generalized classes, private yoga consultations are recommended for treating sciatica. An experienced yoga therapist will create a program of specific yoga positions and breathing exercises for relieving sciatica. Modifications can be made for individuals who cannot perform the sciatica exercise through the full range of motion.
Tai Chi
Tai Chi, a type of martial art, uses gentle flowing movements to strengthen muscles and increase circulation. This type of sciatica exercise can be done by anyone who is able to walk. The movements also increase flexibility in the muscles and joints, improve posture and balance and in many cases have reduced the pain attributed to inflammation.
Feldenkrais, another Mind and Body Discipline
The Feldenkrais Method is a sciatica exercise that uses movement to improve neuromuscular activity. The two areas of discipline in this method are “Awareness through Movement” and “Functional Integration”. The first, ATM, utilizes gentle movements to make the individual aware of body postures and can be done in a class setting. The latter, FI, is a private session where touch is used to increase the communication between the brain and the body. Students of this method have reported these exercises for relieving sciatica have improved the condition as well reducing the pain.
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Sciatica Exercise Benefits
Many health practitioners stress that daily exercises for relieving sciatica are crucial for preventing repeat bouts of the condition. Aerobic exercise increases circulation, stimulating the flow of nutrients to all parts of the body, especially the spinal area. Strengthening sciatica exercise helps with keeping the posture aligned and the back properly supported. Stretching positions are also great exercises for relieving sciatica symptoms and preventing recurrences. When the body is loose and flexible, back related injuries and muscle spasms are less common.
Pilates and the “Core”
One type of sciatica exercise that addresses all three issues is Pilates. This sciatica exercise is actually a routine of exercises that work all the major muscles of the body while placing emphasis on the “core”, a term used to describe the abdomen and back muscles which support the torso. Exercises are performed either on specially designed machines or done as a specific routine on a mat. Joseph H. Pilates, the creator of this type of exercise, believed that the quality of the movements should be stressed rather than the quantity. Each movement is performed an average of only five repetitions and done in cadence to proper breathing. All of the exercises can be modified to fit individual limitations. It is important to find a certified Pilates instructor because the movements need to be done precisely. Also, a trained instructor will have had extensive training in anatomy, rehabilitative techniques and body mechanics as well as being versed in the methods created by Joseph H. Pilates.
Yoga Postures
Yoga, another form of sciatica exercise which strengthens and stretches muscles and increases circulation, can be of great benefit to sciatica sufferers. The study of yoga actually encompasses areas from the spiritual to the physical, but one area, asanas, or the physical yoga postures, can help relieve symptoms of sciatica. While one can benefit from following yoga routines from tapes, DVD’s and generalized classes, private yoga consultations are recommended for treating sciatica. An experienced yoga therapist will create a program of specific yoga positions and breathing exercises for relieving sciatica. Modifications can be made for individuals who cannot perform the sciatica exercise through the full range of motion.
Tai Chi
Tai Chi, a type of martial art, uses gentle flowing movements to strengthen muscles and increase circulation. This type of sciatica exercise can be done by anyone who is able to walk. The movements also increase flexibility in the muscles and joints, improve posture and balance and in many cases have reduced the pain attributed to inflammation.
Feldenkrais, another Mind and Body Discipline
The Feldenkrais Method is a sciatica exercise that uses movement to improve neuromuscular activity. The two areas of discipline in this method are “Awareness through Movement” and “Functional Integration”. The first, ATM, utilizes gentle movements to make the individual aware of body postures and can be done in a class setting. The latter, FI, is a private session where touch is used to increase the communication between the brain and the body. Students of this method have reported these exercises for relieving sciatica have improved the condition as well reducing the pain.
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Thursday, August 27
Yoga - Diet & Eating Habits
Yoga food for health
Yoga diet philosophy does not believe in measuring calorie count or the amount of vitamins, minerals or proteins in the food. Instead stress is laid on type of food and its quality. Focus on nutrition in food without bothering about its taste. Also, moderation is recommended in whatever you drink and eat. Yoga diet principles are very easy but difficult to follow.
Fast foods
Modern fast food items like hamburgers, pizzas, jams, jellies, soft drinks, ice creams etc. have gained control over our eating patterns and is the main cause of obesity we see all around. These fast foods are rich source of sugar, oils and preservatives all of which are not good for our health. People are now attracted by various types of fast food which are very low in nutrition. In addition, these foods tax our digestive system and body has to do extra work for digestion and elimination of such food.
Look towards nature
Yoga diet philosophy emphasizes on the natural sources of nutrition. Nature has provided us several nutritious edible foods in their natural form like whole grains, seasonal fruits, vegetables, milk, honey and dry fruits.
Overeating
More people fall sick due to overeating or wrong dietary habits as compared to people who get sick due to non availability of food. Observe moderation in quantity of food we eat. People who keep on overeating without proper understanding of the principles of eating, gradually begins to harm themselves physically and mentally. One golden rule to avoid overeating is, not to have any type of snacks between your meals.
Balanced diet
Balanced diet is essential requirement of good health. A balanced diet should include plenty of salads, fresh vegetables, fresh fruits, milk and raw nuts. Include these items in your existing dietary choices.Salads. All vegetables eaten raw constitute salad. Fresh cucumber, tomato, carrots, beetroot, lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower etc are used for preparing salad. Salad should be cut into small pieces with suitable dressing of you choice. Ideally salad should form first course of your lunch and dinner. Eat plenty of salad half an hour prior to your meals in case you want to reduce your food intake.
Fresh vegetables
Ideally fresh vegetables from your kitchen garden can be the most fresh vegetables. Fresh vegetables should not be dried or deformed in shape. Vegetables stored in your refrigerator do not remain fresh for a long time.
Fresh fruits.
Fresh fruits are most nutritious food for our body. Regular intake of fresh fruits is essential for good health. Use fresh seasonal fruits. Fruits are better than fruit juices as fruit also provides you fiber.
Raw nuts
Yoga diet should include nuts like cashew, pistachio, almond and walnuts provide essential minerals, proteins and vitamins. For yoga practitioners, a handful mixture of these nuts is recommended for obtaining energy and good health.
Quantity of food
As a general rule, fill only 50% of your stomach with food, 25% of your stomach for water and keep 25% of your stomach empty. If your stomach is overstuffed, it is not properly digested. You will feel uncomfortable and your body is forced to digest extra food and also work for eliminating it. By overeating, your abdominal system is strained and body becomes sluggish. Finally, it leads to gaining of extra weight. Eat only when you feel hungry and eliminate any snacks in between the meals.
Alcoholic drinks
Alcoholic drinks are nutrient thieves, they steal and destroy nutrients available in your system. Alcoholic drinks weaken the individual physically and mentally, if used without restraint. For yoga practitioners, it is best to avoid alcoholic drinks.
Spices
Avoid excessive use of spices and salt. Too much of seasoning of food is also not recommended.Water. Drink 10 to 12 glasses of water everyday. Drink water half an hour before meals. Avoid drinking water with food. Drinking of one or two glasses of water when you wake up is ideal for health.
Coffee and tea
It is ideal if you can avoid tea and coffee completely. Otherwise limit your tea or coffee intake to 2 cups per day. Excess of tea and coffee leads to constipation, insomnia and nervousness in addition to extra calories each cup fo tea or coffee pumps into our bodies.
Method of eating
Eat slowly and chew your food properly. Eating fast does not allow the time for satiating signals to reach your brain from your abdomen resulting in overeating. By chewing the food properly, saliva can better mix with food and make it easily digestible. Body is able to make full use of food you eat and helps you to maintain better health.Principles of yoga diet are time tested and very easy to follow. To lead a healthy life one has to establish a dietary pattern that will sustain good health.
Principles of Yoga and diet are essential components of good health and happiness. Eat to live and not live to eat.
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