Some thoughts on neurophysiological basis of yoga
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Some thoughts on neurophysiological basis of yoga
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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B. Ramamurthi
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Some thoughts on neurophysiological basis of yoga
Year: 1981
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The practice of yoga represents a culmination of efforts by humanity to control the mind and behavior, rooted deeply in ancient Indian thought. While many engage in simple forms of yoga, few attain mastery. The philosophical underpinnings of yoga are grounded in the pursuit of self-improvement and understanding one's existence, as reflected in ancient texts like the Bhagavad Gita and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. This exploration delves into yogic practices, their physiological aspects, and their potential neurophysiological explanations, emphasizing the significance of yoga not only as a historical precedent but as a living science practiced by many in India.
Summary of One Important Concept: Control of the Mind
One of the central tenets of yoga, as articulated by Patanjali, is the control of the mind's activities, described as the "stoppage of the waves of the mind." Achieving mastery over one's thoughts requires concentration and meditation. The practice involves adopting comfortable postures (asanas) and controlling breathing (pranayama), which serve as the foundation for mind control. Once yogis attain a state of deep meditation, known as samadhi, they transcend ordinary physiological limitations. Initially, achieving control over respiration influences the entire nervous system, enabling higher brain functions to regulate autonomic processes. With consistent practice, a practitioner can develop remarkable control over bodily functions, leading to potential supernatural abilities. Yet, true yogis are cautioned against using such powers for trivial purposes, focusing instead on the ultimate goal of union with the absolute.
Conclusion
Yoga stands as a significant avenue for exploring the depths of human consciousness and the intricacies of the nervous system. Scientific research into yoga practices promises to enhance our understanding of human potential and brain functions. While the physiological impacts of yoga require rigorous investigation and volunteers for study, the ancient practice remains a profound discipline that can benefit humanity, promoting a holistic approach to mental and physical well-being without the distractions of superficial attainments.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main aim of yoga according to ancient Indian thought?
The main aim of yoga is to integrate individual consciousness with universal consciousness, ultimately seeking the source of joy and the root cause of human suffering.
How does the practice of yoga begin?
Yoga practice begins with the establishment of bodily and mental cleanliness, along with adherence to principles like nonviolence and truthfulness, leading into exercises such as postures (asanas) and breath control (pranayama).
What is the significance of pranayama in yoga practices?
Pranayama, or the control of respiration, is crucial as it enables the yogi to establish cortical control over physiological functions, and later, emotional and autonomic control, facilitating deeper meditation and concentration.
How do yogis reportedly develop supernatural powers?
Yogis believe that through rigorous practice, control over bodily functions can lead to abilities such as temperature regulation and heightened awareness, although it's discouraged to use these powers frivolously.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Some thoughts on neurophysiological basis of yoga�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Yoga (Yogā):
Yoga represents the integration of the individual soul with the universal soul, embodying ancient Indian thought aimed at controlling the mind and behavior. It encompasses various practices focusing on mental discipline, concentration, and meditation, aiming not only for physical health but also for spiritual enlightenment and higher consciousness.
2) Training:
Training in yoga involves consistent practice of specific exercises and disciplines aimed at mastering the control of the mind and body. This systematic approach requires dedication and adherence to prerequisites such as mental and bodily cleanliness, enabling practitioners to transcend ordinary functions of the body and consciousness.
3) Science (Scientific):
Scientific inquiry into yoga seeks empirical evidence to validate traditional claims about its efficacy in enhancing bodily and mental functions. By applying methods of neurophysiology and psychology, researchers aim to explore the brain's adaptation to yogic practices, attempting to bridge ancient wisdom with contemporary scientific understanding.
4) Asana (Āśana, Āsana, Aśanā, Aśana, Ashana, Asaṇ�):
Asanas are postures adopted during yoga practice, originally defined by Patanjali as comfortable positions that can be maintained over time. These physical exercises play a crucial role in enabling the practice of mindfulness and concentration, facilitating the control of breathing and the subsequent calming of the mind.
5) Samadhi (Samādhi):
This term likely refers to a variation of Samadhi, emphasizing the state of unity or absorption in the ultimate reality. Achieving this state is characterized by detachment from worldly experiences and deep engagement with one's inner self, representing a pinnacle of yogic achievement and the culmination of disciplined practice.
6) Knowledge:
In the context of yoga, knowledge (Jnana) facilitates understanding of the self and the universe. It involves transcending superficial perceptions and gaining insight into the deeper nature of existence, which is essential for spiritual growth and attaining the ultimate goal of uniting with the conscious universal reality.
7) Sutra (Sūtra):
Sutra, as seen in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, refers to concise aphorisms outlining the philosophy and methodology of yoga practice. These foundational texts elucidate the principles of control over the mind and actions, providing a systematic framework for practitioners to follow on their path toward self-realization and mastery.
8) Jnana (Jñāna):
Jnana is the path of knowledge within yoga, signifying the intellectual understanding necessary for spiritual awakening. It encourages practitioners to seek true knowledge of existence through inquiry and contemplation, establishing a pathway to integrate experiential insights into the practice of yoga, ultimately contributing to enlightenment.
9) Activity:
In yoga, activity manifests through the discipline of balanced living, action without attachment to outcomes (Karma Yoga). Engaging wholeheartedly in one's duties while maintaining detachment allows for personal growth and strengthens the connection to the universal soul, enhancing the quality of one's existence and conscious experience.
10) Worry (Worried, Worrying):
Worrying represents a disturbance of the mind that yoga practices aim to mitigate. By cultivating control over thoughts and emotional responses, practitioners learn to avoid stress and anxiety, fostering a state of equanimity. This aligns with the yogic goal of mastering the mind's waves to achieve inner peace.
11) Quality:
Quality in the context of yoga pertains to the enhancement of mental clarity and emotional stability achieved through rigorous practice. The aim is to improve the overall quality of life by fostering a disciplined mind, ultimately leading to higher states of consciousness and deeper connections to oneself and the universe.
12) Desire:
Desire in yoga philosophy often refers to attachments that can lead to suffering. Practicing detachment does not entail abandoning all desires but rather cultivating an awareness of them, allowing practitioners to engage with the world while remaining unaffected by fluctuating desires, which is vital for achieving inner peace.
13) Karma (Karman, Kārma):
Karma describes the principle of action and its consequent effects in yoga philosophy. Engaging in Karma Yoga emphasizes performing duties selflessly without attachment to outcomes, teaching practitioners to focus on the action itself rather than the results, thus aligning their actions with higher spiritual goals and enhancing personal growth.
14) Water:
Water in this context can symbolize life, purity, and the flow of energy. It serves as a metaphor for the need for bodily cleanliness and mental clarity, which are essential prerequisites in yoga practice. Just as water sustains life, the clarity achieved through yoga sustains mental and spiritual vitality.
15) Veda (Vedā):
The Vedas are ancient Indian scriptures that form the foundation of Hindu philosophy, including yoga. They hold profound knowledge on diverse subjects, guiding moral and spiritual conduct. The philosophical insights derived from the Vedas inform yogic practices, interlinking spirituality with the understanding of human existence.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Some thoughts on neurophysiological basis of yoga�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Bhagavad-gita, Yogic practice, Psychological aspect, Breathing control, Patanjali's Yoga-sutra, Physiological requirements, Scientific proof, Neurophysiological basis, Autonomic system.
Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.
Constant practice, Supernatural power, Control of mind, Ultimate reality, State of Samadhi, Ancient Indian thought.