Our human body is marvelous piece of machinery. Proper maintenance
of it keeps it going without problems to a ripe old age
The practice of yoga asana and Pranayama is unquestionably an ideal
method to preserve the health and longevity of our body. Yoga is unique
in that it recuperates the entire system. In the yogic system, the
mechanism is quiet and restful. Asana provide a soothing effect on both
the outer and inner organs.
- Cells : No cellular exhaustion occurs. The cells
are made to liberate their toxins more efficiently due to
i nternal massage by Asanas. Blood flow is increased to the
tissues with augmented oxygen delivery. The question of
accumulation of free radicals never arises with the yogic
practices.
- Mind : Modern medicine has now recognized the
power of mind over matter. The mind is kept in constant
contact with the cells during practice of asanas and the
practitioner's awareness is so refined that he becomes
conscious of the subtle functioning or malfunctioning of any
part of the body
- Asanas work on both gross and micro-structures. For
example, the effects on cartilage, synovial lining and bone
can be directly observed as Asanas are practiced. Certain
Asanas heal the area by their ability to remove the pent up
products of inflammation by intra-articular massage.
- As Asanas are both contractions and relaxations, both
the softness and rigidity of connective tissue is preserved.
- Shape : due to the peculiar nature of yogic
movements, the body is shaped appropriately.
- Joints: Asanas act on the joins. They are given
internal massage. The range of movements far surpasses than
that in any other science.
- Skin : The sensory nerve endings are razor sharp
due the stretch given by the Asanas and this in turn
maintains the neuro vascular functions of the skin. The skin
blood flow is stimulated preventing senile changes. The skin
is adducted, abducted, rotated and circumducted in yogic
practices.
- Circulation : In yoga performed shunting of blood
is possible. In other forms of exercises it is involuntary.
In yogic practices one can shunt blood to any area
consciously, as the geometric shapes of the Asanas vary.
- Cardio Vascular system : The massaging action of
Yogasanas is valuable for the interstitial space (through
which only the nutrients and oxygen pass from the blood to
the cells) improving micro nutrition by healthy lymphatic
flow. Arteries and veins are massaged and kept elastic and
atherosclerotic changes are prevented.
- Respiratory system : Pranayama strengthens the
inner vital energy at micro-cellular levels. Elasticity of
lungs, is maintained, oxygen uptake is improved. Asanas
promote and maintain elasticity of ribs and intercostals
muscles. The diaphragm is strengthened. Standing poses
stimulate the lung. Inverted poses toughen the lung. Forward
bends train one to breathe in a limited cavity. Back bends
strengthen circulation in the entire lower respiratory
tract. The cartilages are toned up and they remain soft and
elastic.
- The digestive system : Yogasanas massages the
entire gastro intestinal tract. They promote expulsion of
excessive wind; maintain peristalsis, blood supply and
freshness of the tissues. All physiological functions are
toned up. Pancreas, are benefited by rotational movements.
Inverted and twisting poses are very helpful for this organ.
Asanas massage liver, improve perfusion, and enhance
elimination of toxins. Twisting poses are invaluable for all
liver disorders. Asanas massage the gall bladder and prevent
any stagnation of secretions.
- The excretory system : The kidney is a vital organ
performing many functions. Asanas massages the kidneys and
prevent degenerative changes.
- The glands : Yoga is the only system, which
exerts a beneficial effect on glandular function. Almost all
the glands are thoroughly massaged during the various
postures optimizing glandular function.
- The nervous system : There are several major and
minor plexuses of nerves throughout entire length of the
body. All are in communication with each other and with the
sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. All Asanas
are helpful. Asanas and Pranayamas refresh the mind as
recuperation occurs.
- The special senses : Practice of yoga deeply
affects the special senses. Yoga provides relaxation to the
body by working through the special senses. Shanmukhi mudra
provides complete neuro-muscular relaxation to the special
senses.