How to Make the Body Proper for Sadhana

Baba

This entire email is composed of 3 parts:

(1) Posting: How to Make the Body Proper for Sadhana;
(2) Trailer Quote: Why Infants Laugh & Cry For No Apparent Reason;
(3) Prabhat Samgiita #4116;

Each section is demarcated by asterisks (***).

== HOW TO MAKE THE BODY PROPER FOR GOOD SADHANA ==

Namaskar,
All the practices in Ananda Marga have their special purpose - none should be skipped - including our yoga asana practice. Asanas are a key element of 16 Points as well as instrumental in balancing the glandular system and preparing the mind for meditation. Thus asanas are so critical for our physical, psychic and spiritual advancement.

SPECIAL ASANA SYSTEM IN ANANDA MARGA

In the wide world of yoga there are more than 50,000 known asanas. And among those 50,000, Baba has graciously compiled approximately 42 which we use in our Ananda Marga system.

"There are more than 50,000 ásanas; among them a few are named here which are most necessary for the path of meditation." (1)

TWO ASANAS THAT CURE ALL DISEASES

In particular, in Ananda Marga yoga, there are two asanas Baba has given which cure all the diseases.

(a) The first one is sarvaungasana [shoulderstand]. As the derivation of its name denotes sarvaungasana purifies the entire body. 'Sarva' means all; 'aunga' means limbs and organs; and 'asana' means position comfortably held. So by performing this asana the whole body-- all the limbs and organs - gets rejuvenated and cured from all types of diseases and ailments.

(b)  The second asana with this cure-all quality is matsyendrasana [spinal twist].  As noted, in sarvaungasana the name itself denotes that it is beneficial for all the organs etc. But the same is not the case with the name - matsyendrasana. Reason is that matsyendrasana is named after one prince who became a great yogi. That prince's name was Matsyendranath. And since he was the one who created this asana, that asana was named: matsyendrasana.

(c) But it should be clearly known that both these asanas positively effect the entire body. But the name of one asana expresses this idea whereas the other asana does not. Even then, the all-round benefits of these two asanas are nearly identical.

(d) In sarvaungasana even the eyes get proper exercise by focusing up towards the big toe. Similarly, in matsyendrasana, the eyes derive tremendous benefits from looking to the far left and far right during the twisting motion.

(e) So both these asanas exercise & revitalise the entire body from head to foot. Specifically these asanas benefit the arms, legs, mouth, nose, eyes, head, ear, tongue as well as all the cakras of the body.

(f) For sarvaungasana, a complementary asana also needs to be done. That is matsyamudra, a.k.a fish posture. So first one should do sarvaungasana, then one should rest for 15 seconds by doing shavasana (corpse pose), and then one should do matsyamudra. In general, sarvaungasana will be done twice as long as matsyamudra. Directly after completing matsyamudra one can again begin sarvaungasana. But each time in between Sarvaungasana and Matsyamudra, shavasana should be performed.

(g) Those suffering from high blood pressure should refrain from doing sarvaungasana.

(h) In our AM system, asanas have not been selected just on the basis of physical exercise only. Rather Baba has perfectly selected those asanas which are helpful in maintaining good health as well as proper glandular secretions - which help make the body fit for spiritual practice. Such types of asanas have primarily been included in our AM system. That is why Baba has included and approved only 42 asanas for Ananda Margiis.

SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS OF ASANAS

Here below are a few of Baba's direct guidelines regarding asanas.

"'A'sana' means 'a position in which one feels comfortable' -'Stirasukhama'sanam'." (2)

"A'sanas are a kind of exercise by regular practice of which the body stays healthy and hardy and many diseases are cured." (3)

"[Specifically] those diseases which create trouble in the path of meditation may be cured by the help of specific a'sanas, so that sa'dhana' may more easily be done." (4)

HOW TO PERFORM THESE ASANAS:

BABA'S GUIDELINES DIRECTLY FROM CARYACARYA

(I) Sarva'unga'sana (all-limbs posture):

(a) Lie down on your back. Gradually raise the entire body and keep it straight, resting its weight on your shoulders. The chin must be in contact with the chest. Support both sides of your trunk with your hands. The toes must remain together; the eyes must be directed at the toes.

(b) Lie down in padma'sana. Gradually raise the body and rest its weight on your shoulders. Support both sides with the hands. This a'sana is also known as u'rdhvapadma'sana (inverted lotus posture)'.

Practise three rounds, up to five minutes.

(II) Matsyamudra' (fish posture): Lie down in padma'sana. Rest the crown of the head on the floor and grasp both the big toes with the hands. Practise three times. Maximum time for practice is two-and-a-half minutes.

(III) Matsyendra'sana (Matsyendra's posture): generally for males:

(a) Press the mu'la'dha'ra cakra with the right heel. Cross the left foot over the right thigh and keep it to the right of the thigh. Grasp the left big toe with the right hand, keeping the right arm along the left side of the left knee. Reach backwards from the left side with the left hand and touch the navel. Turn the neck to the left as far as possible.

(b) Then press the mu'la'dha'ra with the left heel and reverse the process. One round means completing the process on both sides.

Practise four rounds, half a minute each time. (5)

RULES FOR ÁSANAS

Here are Baba's rules for performing yoga asanas from Caryacarya.

(1) Before practising ásanas, do vyápaka shaoca or take a full bath. Vyápaka shaoca must also be done before daily meditation; if ásanas are done with daily meditation then it is not necessary to do vyápaka shaoca separately.

(2) Do not practise ásanas in an open place, because it may result in sudden exposure and thereby you may catch cold. While practising ásanas indoors, attention should be paid to keep the windows open so that air can pass through.

(3) No smoke should be allowed to enter the room. The less smoke the better.

(4) Males must wear a Kaopiina (laungot́á), and there should be no other clothing on the body. Females must wear tight-fitting underwear and a bra.

(5) Practise ásanas on a blanket or a mat. Do not do ásanas on the bare ground, because you may catch cold, and some secretions which come from the body while practising ásanas may be destroyed.

(6) Practise ásanas only while breath is flowing through the left nostril or both nostrils; do not practise ásanas when the breath flows only through the right nostril.

(7) Take sáttvika food. But a person for whom it is difficult to give up rájasika food can for the time being take a small piece of myrobalan (it is better to use the small type of myrobalan), or something of a similar nature, after meals. However, this procedure does not apply in cold countries.

(8) Do not cut the hair of the joints of the body.

(9) The nails of the fingers and toes must be kept cut short.

(10) Do not practise ásanas on a full belly. It is prohibited to perform ásanas for two-and-a-half to three hours after a meal.

(11) After practising ásanas, you should massage your arms, legs and entire body, especially the joints, very well.

(12) After the massage is finished, remain in shavásana (corpse posture) for at least two minutes.

(13) After shavásana do not come in direct contact with water for at least ten minutes.

(14) A practitioner of ásanas should not massage his or her body with oil. If you like you may rub oil lightly over the body.

(15) After practising ásanas, it is desirable to walk in a solitary place for some time.

(16) Just after ásanas práńáyáma is prohibited.

(17) If it is necessary to go outdoors after practising ásanas and if at that time the body temperature has not come down to a normal level, or if there is any difference between the room temperature and the outside temperature, you must cover your body when going out. If possible, inhale a deep breath inside the room and exhale it after coming outside. In that way there will be no chance of catching cold.

(18) It is not prohibited for the practitioner of ásanas to practise free-hand exercise, running or sports, but just after ásanas all these are prohibited.

(19) There is no restriction of nostril for the following ásanas: padmásana (lotus posture), siddhásana (siddha posture), ardhasiddhásana (half siddha posture), bhojanásana (cross-legged sitting posture), viirásana (viira posture), diirgha prańáma (long bowing posture), yogásana (yoga posture) and bhújauṋgásana (snake posture).

(20) For all those ásanas where there is no restriction of nostrils, there is no restriction on food either.

(21) During menstruation, pregnancy and within one month of delivery, women must not practise ásanas or any other exercise. The ásanas for dhyána can be done under all conditions – padmásana, siddhásana and viirásana are the proper ásanas for dhyána and dhárańá. (6)


SENTIENT FOOD

In point #7 above, Baba clearly guides us that a practitioner of yoga asanas should be strict in following a sentient diet. As as reminder, here below are Baba's guidelines on sentient food.

   "Sáttvika Áhára: All the staple food-grains such as rice, wheat, barley, etc.; all the pulses except masúr [an orange-coloured lentil] and khesári; all fruits and roots; all kinds of vegetables except violet-coloured carrots, white brinjals [white eggplants], onions, garlic and mushrooms; milk and milk products; all green and leafy vegetables except red puni and mustard. All varieties of spices except garam masalá(1) and all kinds of sweets, can be taken."
   "A sáttvika diet is required for those who practise ásanas. Those who find it difficult to give up the habit of rájasika food all of a sudden may eat a piece of haritakii [myrobalan] after the meal. Those who take sáttvika food should avoid taking a large quantity of mustard or mustard products. Rájasika food-eaters should gradually try to change over to sáttvika food and támasika food-eaters should try to give up such food as early as possible." (7)

"Sentient food: Food which produces sentient cells and is thus conducive to physical and mental well-being is sentient. Examples of sentient food are rice, wheat, barley, all kinds of pulses, fruit, milk and milk products." (8)


IMPORTANT QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ON ASANAS

The following are Baba's direct teachings from Yoga Psychology book)

Question: What is the definition of ásanas?

Answer: Sthirasukham ásanam (Patanjali). Ásanas are calm, quiet and easy postures which are held with proper inhalation and exhalation. They exercise the nerves, tissues, glands and organs of the human body. While practising ásanas one enjoys physical comfort and mental composure.

The regular practice of ásanas keeps the body healthy and cures many diseases. Ásanas control the glands, the glands control the secretion of hormones, and the secretion of hormones controls the propensities. So ásanas help a sádhaka [spiritual aspirant] to balance the body and concentrate the mind.


Question: Why do we practise ásanas?

Answer: We perform ásanas for the following reasons:
To increase the flexibility of the body.
To rectify glandular defects and balance hormonal secretions in order to control the vrttis [propensities].
To balance the body and mind.
To withdraw the mind from undesirable thinking.
To prepare the mind for subtler and higher sádhaná [spiritual practices].


Question: How do we name ásanas?

Answer: We name ásanas as follows:
(1) Some ásanas are similar to animal movements so they are named after those animals; for example, matsyamudrá [fish posture], garud́ásana [bird posture], etc.
(2) Some ásanas have the characteristics of animal structures, so they are also named after those animals; for example, kúrmakásana [tortoise posture], etc.
(3) Some ásanas are named by the qualities of the ásana; for example, sarváuṋgásana [shoulder stand; literally “all-limbs posture”]. The entire body is benefited by this ásana.


Question: How many types of ásanas are there?

Answer: There are mainly two types of ásanas: svásthyásanas and dhyánásanas. Svásthyásanas are practised primarily for physical health and secondarily for spiritual elevation. Dhyánásanas are practised primarily for concentration of mind and meditation. Dhyánásanas include padmásana [lotus posture], baddha padmásana [bound-lotus posture], siddhásana [siddha posture, the posture of a perfected one] and viirásana [hero posture].


Question: What is the difference between sarváuṋgásana and vipariitakaranii mudrá?

Answer: While practising sarváuṋgásana the mind is fixed at the point between the tip of the two big toes, whereas in vipariitakaranii mudrá the mind is fixed at the tip of the nose or at the navel.


Question: What are mudrás, bandhas and vedhas?

Answer: Mudrás are postures which exercise the nerves and muscles. Mudrá literally means “externalization of internal bháva [ideation]”. There are only a few spiritual mudrás where the internal ideation is not externalized.
   The practitioner of mudrá may or may not enjoy physical comfort and mental composure. During the practice of mudrás one has to continue one’s conscious endeavour to remain in that posture, but in the case of ásanas one need not.
   Bandhas are also postures of a special type which exercise the nerves only. The practitioner may or may not derive physical comfort and mental composure. In bandha also one has to continue one’s conscious endeavour to remain in the particular posture. Bandhas also influence the váyus [vital-energy currents] in the body.
   Vedhas are almost the same as bandhas. Vedhas exert some influence on both the nerves and the vital airs [vital-energy currents]. (9)

Namaskar,
In Him,
Harideva

REFERENCES
1. Caryacarya, part 3
2. Caryacarya, part 3
3. Caryacarya, part 3
4. Caryacarya, part 3
5. Caryacarya, part 3
6. Caryacarya, part 3
7. Caryacarya, part 3
8. Yoga Psychology, Food, Cells, Physical and Mental Development
9. Yoga Psychology, Questions & Answers On Meditation

NOTE 1: LINK TO EARLIER LETTERABOUT ASANAS

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2013/02/why-asana-is-must-for-proper-sadhana.html

The section below demarcated by asterisks is an entirely different topic,
completely unrelated to the above material. It stands on its own as a point of interest.

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Why Infants Laugh & Cry For No Apparent Reason

"After death the disembodied mind floats in the vast space with its unexpressed saḿskáras. Later on, with the cooperation of the mutative principle, the disembodied mind finds a suitable physical base. The memory of its past life remains awake for approximately the first five years of its new life. Although the child remains in a new physical environment, mentally it continues to live the joys and sorrows of its previous life. That is why children sometimes laugh and cry in their sleep, and their mothers often think they are talking with God. In colloquial Bengali this is called deola kát́á. In actual fact this laughter and crying is nothing but the reappearance of past memories. To re-experience past events one does not need the cooperation of the old brain. The newly-born mind has not yet had time to build a close relationship with the new brain. The revival of experiences of past lives is what we call “extra-cerebral memory”, and is principally the task of the causal mind." (Ananda Marga Philosophy in a Nutshell - 4, Cerebral and Extra-Cerebral Memory)

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************ Prabhat Samgiita

"Tumi kato liila' kare calecho..."   (P.S. 4116)

Purport

O' Parama Purusa, Your divine liila is unimaginable. It does not have any beginning or end - You go on playing endlessly. You have created soft & tender flowers full of fragrance and nectar. And the sky You have decorated with the shining cool moon. Baba in Your creation You did not leave any place unattended or uncared for. Everything is full of sweetness and charm. Baba Your liila is incomparable.

O' my Lord, the flute of my heart which never got played, the heart which never felt longing or crying for You, You have aroused that very dry heart with devotion and filled it with bliss. It is Your divine grace. Now that very dry heart of mine is filled with bhava.  

Baba, those who were drowned in cimmerian darkness and were submerged in dogma, they were not able to recognise their real status - what they are and what they have come for. Even without their desire or asking, You blessed them with awakening and divine truth. In the their burning hearts, You poured nectar - even without their expressed desire or asking.  

Baba You have graciously blessed one and all. Baba Your divine liila is unique and incomparable...

Why Asana Is A Must For Proper Sadhana

Date: 03 Feb 2012 22:53:11 -0000
From: "Acintya Deva"
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Why Asana Is A Must For Proper Sadhana

Baba

== WHY ASANA IS A MUST FOR PROPER SADHANA ==

Note: The "I" in the below account refers to our dear margii brother Ram Prasadji. He is the one who spoke to rector master dada about asanas. I have merely noted down the points and recounted the scene so others could read what happened. Thus the "I" does not refer to me (Acintya), the "I" reflects brother Ram Prasadji.

Namaskar,
Astaunga yoga - the eight-limbs of yoga - includes yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyhara, dharana, dhyana, and samadhi. When my own asana practice became disturbed, I sought out one Dada as I did not want to be deficient in any way.

At the earliest opportunity I asked rector Dada to review my asanas. He was very busy in arranging duties related with the master unit. When he inquired about my problem, I told him that earlier I did not have any serious problem. But when I started doing asanas, then I began to experience various issues.

I related what happened when I had visited Ananda Nagar, and met up with one Dada. I requested Dada to prescribe some asanas for me, then in a distracted manner he told some asanas while I was walking along with him. Since practicing those asanas my situation worsened.

After listening to this, my rector Dada told that, "You have to understand the problem with our workers, WTs. Because of organizational work pressure, everyone in the Ananda Marga Wt cadre is busy. Some do not have time to study Baba's books nor the Ananda Marga acarya diary; while others do not have proper knowledge about asanas and their positive and negative effects. In that case, some do not know which asana is related with which disease, while some other workers certainly know. If you find a Wt who is knowledgeable, then that is very good - learn from them. Otherwise, refer to Baba's books [as explained below] because getting improper guidelines from an unqualified worker could be harmful."

THE SCIENCE OF ASANAS

Here is more what my Rector Dada recounted to me that day.

Asanas are a tested and proven science. Thus they should be prescribed very carefully, only after proper analysis and inquiry regarding the practitioner's physical and psychic diseases or problems. Asanas are not just some free-hand exercise. Asanas are deeply healing postures of comfort that are related with various glands and subglands.

Baba has revealed a completely new science. In the past, various yogiis were doing asanas, but they were not aware about the serious consequences. And they did not know the way asanas link with various propensities. In His discourse "Glands and Sub-glands", Baba has revealed the secret.

Baba says, "This is a new science which is unknown today." (1)

Baba has given the science in His Ananda Marga teachings how asanas affect various cakras and their related glands and subglands.

PROPER SYSTEM MUST BE FOLLOWED

So asanas should not be learned or practiced in a haphazard way. If anybody does asanas without proper awareness, those asanas can cause serious harm or create more diseases: Physical, as well as psychic. To avoid this situation, better is to follow Baba's direct teaching.

In the asana book, it says that margiis should consult with acaryas. Then how can margiis decide our own asanas with the help of the books only?

The answer is simple: Yogic Treatments book.

In that text, various diseases and their respective asanas have been detailed. One should carefully read about their health problem. The recommended asanas for that problem should be practiced carefully and diligently, otherwise there is the possibility of causing harm.

DADAJI: "REFERENCE YOGIC TREATMENTS"

Here is more of what Dadaji and I discussed that day.

Dada confided in me, "You see my situation. I am extremely busy in my master unit work. If any asthma patient or heart disease patient asks me about asanas, what can I tell them? And if I give them the wrong asana, that will be very bad. So for the sake of safety and welfare for others, I suggest that everybody should read the Yogic Treatments (Yoga Cikitsa), and follow the guideline. In that way they should decide upon and practice their asana. That is a very safe method."

Then I replied, "Dadaji earlier nobody ever told me this in such a clearcut way."

Dada replied, "On this very point, what can I say? I know my own shortcomings. I do not have any hesitation to accept them. Due to extreme pressure of work, some WTs do not have time to study all those huge teachings of various diseases and their remedies and asanas. So those concerned persons should decide. That is why Baba has written this book. Otherwise, what for?"

In the Preface of Yogic Treatments, Baba has written:

   "The object of the art of healing is to cure a patient, both physically and mentally. So the main question is not to uphold any particular school of medical science; rather, the key task is the welfare of the patient."
   "Just as diseased body organs can be restored to normal by administering medicines internally or externally, they can also be healed, more safely and more perfectly, with the help of yogic ásanas and mudrás. The aim of this book, therefore, is to make the general public aware of the yogic methods of treating the various illnesses.
   "My purpose is to let people cure themselves by practising the ásanas and mudrás described in this book. People are requested not to take the risk of practising ásanas and mudrás by themselves, but rather to do so under the guidance of an experienced ácárya [spiritual teacher]. Ananda Marga ácáryas will always be ready to help without any remuneration. Detailed instructions for practising the ásanas and mudrás, for bathing, etc. have been given in Part Three of Ananda Marga Caryácarya. If necessary, the reader may consult that book." (2)

Dadaji added, "In normal times - when all acaryas are up to the mark in all respects, then getting acarya consultation on asanas from a Wt is best. That is Baba's guideline. But in this era, if a proper acarya is not nearby, then one can adjust and learn directly from Baba's above books, i.e. Caryacarya - 3 and Yogic Treatments. That will suffice - that is better than getting improper guidelines from an acarya without the requisite knowledge. However, if one is very new to Ananda Marga and yoga, and they have never practiced a yoga asana, then they should refrain from learning on their own. Then they should wait to in contact with a wt or practicing margii. There is no other way."

SOME WARNINGS

In the last Dadaji warned, "Be careful. If asanas are done correctly then that is very good. Very beneficial. But if they are done incorrectly, then they are very harmful. If you need help with a particular asana ask your bhukti pradhan, unit secretary, or any Wt or senior margii who has a keen understanding of that particular asana."

"One of the tragedies nowadays, when yoga has become so popular around the world, is that many are practicing without following the do's and don'ts such as proper diet, correct form, or wrong asana entirely, and in result they hurt and harm themselves."

After that he showed me the Baba's discourse, "Glands and Sub-glands", where Baba has revealed operative aspect behind the science of yoga asanas. Some asanas give pressure on the glands and then the secretion of hormones increases. And that affects on the body and mind. Whereas other asanas have a depressurizing effect on other respective glands. that affects in the the opposite manner. Some asanas work in one direction, and then other asanas are work in the opposite direction.'

'And Baba also especially warned, that in various diseases certain asanas are prohibited. Like, in high blood pressure, sarvangasana (shoulderstand) is very harmful. Similar in the case of heart patients, salabasana is very bad. There is a long list of such conditions. So the best is to consult Yogic Treatments book. That is the safest way.'

MORE OF BABA'S GUIDELINES ON ASANAS

Dada told, 'This following paragraph of "Yoga Psychology", is very important:

Baba begins telling about cakras.

"Cakra is a Sanskrit term while "plexus" is the Latin term. Besides the main nerve centres at the point of each cakra, there are also sub-centres where sub-glands are located. These sub-glands influence the propensities attached to each cakra. This science is largely unknown today." (3)

Baba furthermore continues. Here He gives the link between asanas, cakras, and propensities.

"By performing a'sanas regularly, human beings can control the propensities attached to each cakra, and hence the thoughts which arise in their minds and their behaviour. This is because a'sanas have a profound effect on the glands and sub-glands." (4)

Baba then goes on to explain the way asanas affect the glands:

"All a'sanas have either a pressurizing or depressurizing effect on the glands and sub-glands. For example, mayu'ra'sana [peacock posture] has a pressurizing effect on the man'ipura cakra. The secretions of the glands and sub-glands of the man'ipura cakra and the propensities associated with them will become more balanced if this a'sana is practised regularly." (5)

Here Baba gives a specific example.

"If someone has a great fear of public speaking, it means his or her man'ipura cakra is weak. Through the regular practice of mayu'ra'sana, this propensity will be controlled and fear will be eliminated." (6)

Baba then explains more about the precise way in which asanas exert their effect on the cakras.

"Other a'sanas may have a depressurizing effect on the man'ipura cakra, and if these a'sanas are performed regularly the glands and sub-glands associated with the cakra will become less active. Increased glandular secretions generally make the propensities more active and vice versa." (7)

Baba concludes by giving the link between importance of asana selection, and their effect on each person's propensities:

"By practising a'sanas regularly, one can control the propensities and either increase or decrease their activity. So spiritual
aspirants should select the a'sanas they perform very carefully. This effect of a'sanas on glands and sub-glands has never been revealed before." (8)

CURRENT SITUATION WITH VARIOUS WTS:

PARTING WORDS OF RECTOR DADA

Under normal circumstances, it is quite beneficial to review one's asana practice with our wholetimer dadas and didis. Unfortunately, we are not living in normal times.

Tragically, nowadays, some dadas and didis themselves do not do asanas. By seeing their obesity and big belly, it is quite clear they do not do asanas. Yet when they entered the Marga they were quite slim and healthy. Gradually, over the years, they grew in the midsection. Part of the cause was not doing asanas. Only some junior workers and some seniors are practicing asanas. While a few Wts do not do them at all - not ever or rarely. That is the sad news.

For instance, when Wts are at a margii's house then they must practice asanas to impress that host margii family. But when they are alone or in the jagrti with other dadas then they do not practice. Nor do they practice when traveling on the train etc. During reporting or in camps, then some may practice and many not. Those not practicing will often make sarcastic, taunting remarks to those who do practice asanas. Because those dadas feel threatened that if more do asanas then they also may have to do them.

That is the astonishing aspect: If they see any WT practicing asanas then they harass that sincere worker and make them the butt end of their jokes. Such is the toxic atmosphere in the organisation these days. Those strict in 16 Points are abused by other workers.

There is more to tell: If any Dada is doing tandava or kaoshikii, then sometimes other workers tell them to stop because they are making noise and creating a disturbance. This is the shocking response that happens nowadays. Certain wts feel irritated if another is sincere in following daily dharmic practices like asanas, kaoshikii and tandava etc, so they become a vocal opponent. In their own campus, such things are happening with some Didis. Not always, but sometimes.

Another twist is that when overseas wts go to reporting in India, then certain host workers do a show of asanas and sadhana lessons for a few days - as if they are very sincere. Yet if you inquire with them about the most basic asanas, often they we have seen that some of those Wts are not aware. Some do not even know which asanas are for males and which are for females.

So you see, in some cases their knowledge and understanding is quite poor.

BABA'S RELATED TEACHINGS

"“Ásana” means “a position in which one feels comfortable” – “Sthirasukhamásanam.” Ásanas are a kind of exercise by regular practice of which the body stays healthy and hardy and many diseases are cured. But ásanas are not prescribed for the general cure of diseases; only those diseases which create trouble in the path of meditation may be cured by the help of specific ásanas, so that sádhaná may more easily be done.
The relation between the physical body and the mind is very close. Mental expression is brought about through the vrttis, and the predominance of the vrttis depends on different glands of the body. There are many glands in the body and from each there is a secretion of a particular hormone. If there is any defect in the secretion of hormones or any defect in a gland, certain vrttis become excited. For this reason, we find that in spite of having a sincere desire to follow the moral code, many persons cannot do so; they understand that they should do meditation, but they cannot concentrate their minds because their minds become extroverted due to the external excitement of this or that propensity. If a person wants to control the excitement of these propensities, he or she must rectify the defects of the glands. Ásanas help the sádhaka to a large extent in this task, so ásanas are an important part of sádhaná." (9)

"Proper attention should be paid to the physical, psychic and spiritual development of small boys and girls. Just as they sit and study to develop their intellectual capabilities, they should also sit to do their spiritual practices with their parents. That is the way they will develop their spiritual practices. They should take diikśá [spiritual initiation] from an ácárya(á) [spiritual teacher] when they grow up. They should practice the lessons of sádhaná – japa, dhyána, ásana, práńáyáma, etc. – along with their regular academic lessons. All that is necessary for their trifarious development, and it must be perfectly balanced. One should remember that the absence of a proper balance will harm not only the individuals, but also the society as a whole." (10)

"We must develop the physico-psychic aspect of students through proper physical culture, which will include yoga ásanas, proper diet, games, sports, etc. And to develop the psycho-spiritual aspect, we must reorient the entire curriculum of all schools from kindergarten to postgraduate level according to the Neohumanist philosophy, and must incorporate the practices of Aśt́áuṋga Yoga into the curriculum in all grades. This will be the practical approach. And the guiding philosophy, the controlling philosophy should be: “This universe is ours” – and “we” means humans, animals and plants." (11)

"By performing ásanas [postures for physico-psychic well-being] regularly, human beings can control the propensities attached to each cakra, and hence the thoughts which arise in their minds and their behaviour. This is because ásanas have a profound effect on the glands and sub-glands. How? All ásanas have either a pressurizing or depressurizing effect on the glands and sub-glands. For example, mayúrásana [peacock posture] has a pressurizing effect on the mańipura cakra. The secretions of the glands and sub-glands of the mańipura cakra and the propensities associated with them will become more balanced if this ásana is practised regularly. If someone has a great fear of public speaking, it means his or her mańipura cakra is weak. Through the regular practice of mayúrásana, this propensity will be controlled and fear will be eliminated. Other ásanas may have a depressurizing effect on the mańipura cakra, and if these ásanas are performed regularly the glands and sub-glands associated with the cakra will become less active. Increased glandular secretions generally make the propensities more active and vice versa. By practising ásanas regularly, one can control the propensities and either increase or decrease their activity. So spiritual aspirants should select the ásanas they perform very carefully. This effect of ásanas on glands and sub-glands has never been revealed before." (12)

"Concentration is a major sádhaná, is a major intuitional sádhaná. But there are certain helping sádhanás. Ásana and práńáyáma, for example, are helping items. They are not sádhaná, they are called sádhanáunga." (13)

"The indriyas are the controller of the body, the mind the controller of the indriyas, and the vital energy the controller of the mind. That's why on the path of spiritual practice, and particularly in the practice of astáunga yoga (the eight fold path consisting of yama, niyama, ásana, práńáyáma, pratyáhára, dhárańá, dhyána, and samádhi) práńáyáma plays a very significant role." (14)

"Question: What is the definition of ásanas?
Answer: Sthirasukham ásanam (Patanjali). Ásanas are calm, quiet and easy postures which are held with proper inhalation and exhalation. They exercise the nerves, tissues, glands and organs of the human body. While practising ásanas one enjoys physical comfort and mental composure.
The regular practice of ásanas keeps the body healthy and cures many diseases. Ásanas control the glands, the glands control the secretion of hormones, and the secretion of hormones controls the propensities. So ásanas help a sádhaka [spiritual aspirant] to balance the body and concentrate the mind." (15)

"Question: Why do we practise ásanas?
Answer: We perform ásanas for the following reasons:
To increase the flexibility of the body.
To rectify glandular defects and balance hormonal secretions in order to control the vrttis [propensities].
To balance the body and mind.
To withdraw the mind from undesirable thinking.
To prepare the mind for subtler and higher sádhaná [spiritual practices]." (16)

"Question: How do we name ásanas?
Answer: We name ásanas as follows:
(1) Some ásanas are similar to animal movements so they are named after those animals; for example, matsyamudrá [fish posture], garud́ásana [bird posture], etc.
(2) Some ásanas have the characteristics of animal structures, so they are also named after those animals; for example, kúrmakásana [tortoise posture], etc.
(3) Some ásanas are named by the qualities of the ásana; for example, sarváungásana [shoulder stand; literally “all-limbs posture”]. The entire body is benefited by this ásana." (17)

"Question: How many types of ásanas are there?
Answer: There are mainly two types of ásanas: svásthyásanas and dhyánásanas. Svásthyásanas are practised primarily for physical health and secondarily for spiritual elevation. Dhyánásanas are practised primarily for concentration of mind and meditation. Dhyánásanas include padmásana [lotus posture], baddha padmásana [bound-lotus posture], siddhásana [siddha posture, the posture of a perfected one] and viirásana [hero posture]." (18)

"Question: What is the difference between sarváungásana and vipariitakaranii mudrá?
Answer: While practising sarváuṋgásana the mind is fixed at the point between the tip of the two big toes, whereas in vipariitakaranii mudrá the mind is fixed at the tip of the nose or at the navel." (19)

"Question: What are mudrás, bandhas and vedhas?
Answer: Mudrás are postures which exercise the nerves and muscles. Mudrá literally means “externalization of internal bháva [ideation]”. There are only a few spiritual mudrás where the internal ideation is not externalized.
The practitioner of mudrá may or may not enjoy physical comfort and mental composure. During the practice of mudrás one has to continue one's conscious endeavour to remain in that posture, but in the case of ásanas one need not." (20)

"The Paincakośas shall have to be perfected, but how is it possible? They can be consummated only through the practice of Yama and Niyama. The Annamaya Kośa is perfected through Ásanas (physical postures). Yama and Niyama Sádhana perfect the Kámamaya Kośa. The Manomaya Kośa is perfected through Pránáyáma. Through Pratyáhára the Atimánasa Kośa is perfected." (21)

"After this, at the age of twelve, the child should take initiation from an ácárya/á in Sádhárańa Yoga, and at sixteen or afterwards, they should take initiation in Sahaja Yoga from the ácárya/á. If considered essential, ásanas may be taught before the age of sixteen." (22)

At His feet,
Acintya


REFERENCES:
1. Yoga Psychology, "Glands and Sub-glands"
2. Yogic Treatments, Preface
3. Yoga Psychology, "Glands and Sub-glands"
4. Yoga Psychology, "Glands and Sub-glands"
5. Yoga Psychology, "Glands and Sub-glands"
6. Yoga Psychology, "Glands and Sub-glands"
7. Yoga Psychology, "Glands and Sub-glands"
8. Yoga Psychology, "Glands and Sub-glands"
9. Caryacarya - 3, Ásanas
10. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 22, Táńd́ava and Kaośikii
11. Prout in A Nutshell - 9, Pramá – 4
12. Yoga Psychology, "Glands and Sub-glands"
13. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 23, How to Concentrate
14. Ananda Marga Philosophy in a Nutshell - 6, Ekendriya – 6
15. Yoga Psychology, Questions and Answers on Meditation, #4
16. Yoga Psychology, Questions and Answers on Meditation, #5
17. Yoga Psychology, Questions and Answers on Meditation, #6
18. Yoga Psychology, Questions and Answers on Meditation, #7
19. Yoga Psychology, Questions and Answers on Meditation, #8
20. Yoga Psychology, Questions and Answers on Meditation, #9
21. Subhasita Samgraha - 1, The Call of the Supreme
22. Caryacarya - 1, The Process of Initiation

Special Way to Cure All Diseases

To: AM-GLOBAL
From:
Date: Thu, 29 Mar 2012 20:03:02
Subject: Special Way to Cure All Diseases

Baba

== SPECIAL WAY TO CURE ALL DISEASES ==

Namaskar,
All the practices in AM have their special purpose - none should be skipped. In certain circles some are lax about practicing asanas. Yet our asanas are so critical for our physical, psychic and spiritual advancement.

Here are some important points given by Baba that we should all keep in mind.

SPECIAL ASANA SYSTEM IN ANANDA MARGA

In the wide world of yoga there are more than 50,000 known asanas. And among those 50,000, Baba has graciously compiled approximately 42 which we use in our A'nanda Ma'rga system.

Baba says, "There are more than 50,000 ásanas; among them a few are named here which are most necessary for the path of meditation." (Caryacarya, part 3)

And in particular in A'nanda Ma'rga yoga, there are two a'sanas that Baba has given which cure all the diseases.

(a) The first one is sarvaungasana [shoulder stand]. And as its name denotes sarvaungasana purifies the entire body. 'Sarva' means all; 'aunga' means limbs and organs; and 'asana' means position comfortably held. So by performing this asana the whole body-- all the limbs and organs - gets rejuvenated and cured from all types of diseases and ailments.

(b)  The second asana with this cure-all quality is matsyendrasana [spinal twist].  As noted, in sarvaungasana the name itself denotes that it is beneficial for all the organs etc. But the same is not the case with the name-- matsyendrasana. Reason is that matsyendrasana is named after one prince who became a great yogi. That prince's name was Matsyendranath. And since he was the one who created this asana, that asana was named: matsyendrasana.

(c) But it should be clearly known that both these asanas positively effect the entire body. But the name of one asana expresses this idea whereas the other asana does not. Even then, the all-round benefits of these two asanas are nearly identical.

(d) In sarvaungasana even the eyes get proper exercise by focusing up towards the big toe. Similarly, in matsyendrasana, the eyes derive tremendous benefits from looking to the far left and far right during the twisting motion.

(e) So both these asanas exercise & revitalise the entire body from head to foot. Specifically these asanas benefit the arms, legs, mouth, nose, eyes, head, ear, tongue as well as all the cakras of the body.

(f) For sarvaungasana, a complementary asana also needs to be done. That is matsyamudra, a.k.a fish posture. So first one should do sarvaungasana, then one should  rest for 15 seconds by doing shavasana (corpse pose), and then one should do matsyamudra. In general, sarvaungasana will be done twice as long as matsyamudra. Directly after completing matsyamudra one can again begin sarvaungasana. But each time in between Sarvaungasana and Matsyamudra, shavasana should be performed.

(g) Those suffering from high blood pressure should refrain from doing sarvaungasana.

(h) In our AM system, asanas have not been selected just on the basis of physical exercise only. Rather Baba has perfectly selected those asanas which are helpful in maintaining good health as well as proper glandular secretions - which help make the body fit for spiritual practice. Such types of asanas have primarily been included in our AM system. That is why Baba has included and approved only 42 asanas for Ananda Margiis.

(i) Here below are a few of Baba's direct guidelines regarding asanas.

Baba says, "'A'sana' means 'a position in which one feels comfortable' -
'Stirasukhama'sanam'." (CC-3)

Baba says, "A'sanas are a kind of exercise by regular practice of which the body stays healthy and hardy and many diseases are cured." (CC-3)

Baba says, "[Specifically] those diseases which create trouble in the path of meditation may be cured by the help of specific a'sanas, so that sa'dhana' may more easily be done." (CC-3)

Namaskar,
Parashram

Note 1: BABA'S GUIDELINES DIRECTLY FROM CARYACARYA

(I) Sarva'unga'sana (all-limbs posture):

(a) Lie down on your back. Gradually raise the entire body and keep it straight, resting its weight on your shoulders. The chin must be in contact with the chest. Support both sides of your trunk with your hands. The toes must remain together; the eyes must be directed at the toes.

(b) Lie down in padma'sana. Gradually raise the body and rest its weight on your shoulders. Support both sides with the hands. This a'sana is also known as u'rdhvapadma'sana (inverted lotus posture)'.

Practise three rounds, up to five minutes.


(II) Matsyamudra' (fish posture): Lie down in padma'sana. Rest the crown of the head on the floor and grasp both the big toes with the hands. Practise three times. Maximum time for practice is two-and-a-half minutes.


(III) Matsyendra'sana (Matsyendra's posture): generally for males:

(a) Press the mu'la'dha'ra cakra with the right heel. Cross the left foot over the right thigh and keep it to the right of the thigh. Grasp the left big toe with the right hand, keeping the right arm along the left side of the left knee. Reach backwards from the left side with the left hand and touch the navel. Turn the neck to the left as far as possible.

(b) Then press the mu'la'dha'ra with the left heel and reverse the process. One round means completing the process on both sides.

Practise four rounds, half a minute each time.

 

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

"Ga'n geye ja'bo, shono na' shono tav iccha'..."     P.S. 2305

Purport:

Baba, I will go on singing Your song and chanting Your glory. O' Parama Purusa, it is up to You whether You grace me by listening to these songs or not. With these songs in the depths of my deep ideation, I will generate divine vibrations, by Your grace - and go on serving You.

Baba, O' Divine Entity, with my deep yearning I am calling You again and again. But I am not getting any response - You are not paying heed to my call. By avoiding me, maybe You are thinking that I will not sing Your song any more and remain quiet. Perhaps You are thinking that in frustration, I will give up the hope of getting You. That I will no longer engage in the flow of those divine tunes and melodies, which is inundating the vast sky. That I will not utilize these melodious treasures in my practical life to get closer to You.

Baba, with the strength of knowledge, wisdom, intellect, and worldly attributions, Your depth cannot be measured - nobody can realise You. Only by surrendering that very unit "I" which already belongs to You and singing Your name, will I will surely get You. It is Your grace.   

Baba, O' my Dearmost, I sing my songs only for You: To serve You, to please You. Kindly be gracious and keep me on Your lap...

Note: In the above song, the sadhaka has deep love and a strong yearning for Parama Purusa. So when Parama Purusa does not respond to his call in the way that he desires, the sadhaka makes one loving accusation towards Parama Purusa. Actually that is not an accusation per se, but rather an intimate type of loving expression. In this song, Baba is giving His approval that devotees have the right to do this and that this loving way of communication is quite natural and beneficial.

Which One is First

Date: 10 Nov 2012 16:19:37 -0000
From: "Parashram  Laghate"
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Which One is First

Baba

"Lukiye path cala' ekii liila', lokalocane keno na'hi a'so..."  (P.S. 3698)

Purport:

Baba, You are Ajana Pathik, You go on and on moving all about but in Your journey You always keep Yourself hidden. You move around secretly. Baba, You do all the things but nobody can see You; You do not like to come within the field of vision.  

To whom You love, they want to search You in their mind; they want to hold You in their heart by the process of shravan, manan, niddhidhya'san & dhyana. But You do not care and You do not like to be seen. You go on moving secretly. Why like this. Why is Your style so jagged? You do not like to move around following the straight, clear-cut path whereby everyone can see You. That type of movement You do not like. 

The eternal truth of straightforwardness which has been established since ages, even a wee-bit of that You do not follow in Your movement. Rather everything You do in hidden fashion; and that is no good.
  
It may be also possible that my understanding is not complete so that I do not properly comprehend You. Baba, by the ordinary measuring scale You are immeasurable. If anyone wants to understand You and get You, then You escape and never get held. And remaining distant, You just smile.  

Baba, what type of liila is this. You go on doing everything while remaining hidden...

== WHICH ONE IS FIRST ==

Namaskar,
I learned one very good point at a seminar program some time ago in our bhukti. There were some meaningful points that were shared. I benefited greatly from them. You may be aware of these points already, but because it was new for me, I thought I will write them here.

In the asana teaching class, one key point was raised that our dances - tandava and kaoshiki - should be done before starting asanas. That means after doing half-bath and other preparations, first kaoshiki should be done for a sufficient amount of time (a few minutes or until one gets tired), andn then tandava should be done accordingly. Therefter a brief rest should be taken and then asanas should be started.

ABOUT MY OLD STYLE

This was all quite new to me. In the past, I was doing the opposite.

First I was doing my asanas and then after that kaoshiki and then after that, tandava. And finally, massage and shavasana. After waiting minimum of 15-20 minutes, if I was hungry, I used to take food.

I want to make it more clear, what my routine was up till now. Before starting asana, I usually finish sadhana, whatever time I dedicate for that. So first of all sadhana was done, all the lessons. And then my asanas according to the guideline of acaryas. And finallyI would dance kaoshiki and tandava. This was my sequence.

So the new point that i learned at the seminar was that the practice of dances should be done first - kaoshikii then tandava - and then asanas. This should be the cycle.

CURIOUS TO KNOW THAT ANSWER & WHY

I was not practicing in this fashion, so naturally I was curious: What is the reason why tandava and kaoshiki should not be done after asanas.

Then Dadaji replied, by asking one margii to read this following rule of asanas from CC-3, rule #18.

Baba says, "It is not prohibited for the practitioner of asanas to practise free-hand exercise, running or sports, but just after asanas all these are prohibited." (CC-3, p.26)

This above asana rule from CC III leads in that direction. The spirit of this point is that tandava and kaoshiki should not be done after asanas.

Dada continued, "The definition of asana is "Sthir sukham a'sanam": That is, 'The posture by which one gets composure'.

As, Baba says in Caracarya-3, "Asana means 'a position in which one feels comfortable - 'Sthirasukhama'sanam.'" (CC-3, p.23)

Describing about asanas Baba says, that if you do some asana, then remaining in that very posture is not difficult - rather it is calming. Such is the nature of our asana practice.

Altogether asanas are a practice when the breathing is normal, not very fast. The limbs are not moving fast. Everything is done in a very calm and quiet way. It is not like running or jumping, or fast exercise. So two divisions are there. One is soft exercise like asana. And one is fast like running and jumping, and many more.

Whatever the glandular effect kaoshiki and tandava has, that is a different issue. But these dances have a different quality than the peace and tranquillity and smoothness of asanas. Because when doing kaoshiki and tandava also, the breathing goes very fast and the body gets tired quickly. Whereas in asana, the practitioner does not get tired. Especially those who practice asanas regularly realize this fact.

CONCLUSION

According to the CC-3 rule #18, kaoshiki and tandava should not be done after asanas. The best is that kaoshiki and tandava, one should practice prior to asanas. Dada concluded like this.

After listening to this in-depth discussion, I was convinced. Since then I am practicing kaoshiki-tandava, and then asanas. This sequence I follow. You may be practicing asanas since 20, 30, or 40 years or more. What is your experience - what have you been doing? Baba's teaching is timeless. We should read this following one.

Baba says, "Without attaining all-round purification it is impossible for a sadhaka to experience real spiritual ideation. On the path of spirituality, bhava (ideation) is the main factor." (DT-2, p.51)

Namaskar,
Parashram

Note: DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ASANA AND MUDRA

Dada also explained the difference between asanas and mudras. Asana and mudra are both physical exercises. But if the posture is difficult, then that comes within the category of mudras. For example, udha'yan mudra where you have to constantly pull your naval to the spine  inside. It is constant effort. It is not like asana.

Whereas Padmasana (lotus posture) is not a mudra. It is an asana. Those who practice can sit it can sit in that position for a long time. But, mudra is completely different. You have to do constant efforts to remain in mudra that state.

Baba says, "Mudrás are postures which exercise the nerves and muscles...The practitioner of mudrá may or may not enjoy physical comfort and mental composure. During the practice of mudrás one has to continue one’s conscious endeavour to remain in that posture, but in the case of ásanas one need not. " (YP, Questions and Answers on Meditation)

***************************************
Sadhana Tips

Baba says, "While doing spiritual practices (meditation) when the aspirant is required to direct his mind toward Parama Purus'a, then one must not move, or walk, or practice sit-ups, push-ups etc. One's physical body should be motionless." (APH-5, p. 345)                   
***************************************

Asanas That Cure All Diseases

To: AM-GLOBAL
From:
Date: Sat, 12 Mar 2011 13:28:41
Subject: Asanas That Cure All Diseases

BABA

                 == ASANAS THAT CURE ALL DISEASES ==

Namaskar,
All the practices in AM have their special purpose - none should be skipped.
In certain circles some are lax about practicing asanas. Yet our asanas are
so critical for our physical, psychic and spiritual advancement.

Here are some important points that everyone should know.


                 SPECIAL ASANA SYSTEM IN ANANDA MARGA

In the wide world of yoga there are more than 50,000 known asanas. And
among those 50,000, Baba has graciously compiled approximately 42 which we
use in our A'nanda Ma'rga system.

Baba says, "There are more than 50,000 ásanas; among them a few are
named here which are most necessary for the path of meditation."
(Caryacarya, part 3)

And in particular in A'nanda Ma'rga yoga, there are two a'sanas that Baba
has given which cure all the diseases.

(a) The first one is sarvaungasana [shoulder stand]. And as its name
denotes sarvaungasana purifies the entire body. 'Sarva' means all; 'aunga'
means limbs and organs; and 'asana' means position comfortably held. So by
performing this asana the whole body-- all the limbs and organs-- gets
rejuvenated and cured from all types of diseases and ailments.

(b)  The second asana with this cure-all quality is matsyendrasana [spinal
twist].  As noted, in sarvaungasana the name itself denotes that it is
beneficial for all the organs etc. But the same is not the case with the
name-- matsyendrasana. Reason is that matsyendrasana is named after one
prince who became a great yogi. That prince's name was Matsyendranath. And
since he was the one who created this asana, that asana was named:
matsyendrasana.

(c) But it should be clearly known that both these asanas positively effect
the entire body. But the name of one asana expresses this idea whereas the
other asana does not. Even then, the all-round benefits of these two asanas
are nearly identical.

(d) In sarvaungasana even the eyes get proper exercise by focusing up
towards the big toe. Similarly, in matsyendrasana, the eyes derive
tremendous benefits from looking to the far left and far right during the
twisting motion.

(e) So both these asanas exercise & revitalise the entire body from head to
foot. Specifically these asanas benefit the arms, legs, mouth, nose, eyes,
head, ear, tongue as well as all the cakras of the body.

(f) For sarvaungasana, a complementary asana also needs to be done. That is
matsyamudra, a.k.a fish posture. So first one should do sarvaungasana, then
one should 15 seconds rest by doing shavasana (corpse pose), and then one
should do matsyamudra. Directly after completing matsyamudra one can again
begin sarvaungasana. But each time in between Sarvaungasana and
Matsyamudra, shavasana should be performed.

(g) Those suffering from high blood pressure should refrain from doing
sarvaungasana.

(h) In our AM system, asanas have not been selected just on the basis of
physical exercise only. Rather Baba has perfectly selected those asanas
which are helpful in maintaining good health as well as proper glandular
secretions-- which help make the body fit for spiritual practice. Such
types of asanas have primarily been included in our AM system. That is why
Baba has included and approved only 42 asanas for Ananda Margiis.

(i) Here below are a few of Baba's direct guidelines regarding asanas.

Baba says, "'A'sana' means 'a position in which one feels comfortable'--
'Stirasukhama'sanam'." (CC-3)

Baba says, "A'sanas are a kind of exercise by regular practice of which the
body stays healthy and hardy and many diseases are cured." (CC-3)

Baba says, "[Specifically] those diseases which create trouble in the path
of meditation may be cured by the help of specific a'sanas, so that
sa'dhana' may more easily be done." (CC-3)

Namaskar,
Parashram


Note:      BABA'S GUIDELINES DIRECTLY FROM CARYACARYA

(I) Sarva'unga'sana (all-limbs posture):

(a) Lie down on your back. Gradually raise the entire body and keep it
straight, resting its weight on your shoulders. The chin must be in contact
with the chest. Support both sides of your trunk with your hands. The toes
must remain together; the eyes must be directed at the toes.

(b) Lie down in padma'sana. Gradually raise the body and rest its weight on
your shoulders. Support both sides with the hands. This a'sana is also
known as u'rdhvapadma'sana (inverted lotus posture)'.

Practise three times, up to five minutes each time.


(II) Matsyamudra' (fish posture): Lie down in padma'sana. Rest the crown of
the head on the floor and grasp both the big toes with the hands. Practise
three times. Maximum time for practice is two-and-a-half minutes.


(III) Matsyendra'sana (Matsyendra's posture): generally for males:

(i) Press the mu'la'dha'ra cakra with the right heel. Cross the left foot
over the right thigh and keep it to the right of the thigh. Grasp the left
big toe with the right hand, keeping the right arm along the left side of
the left knee. Reach backwards from the left side with the left hand and
touch the navel.
Turn the neck to the left as far as possible.

(ii) Then press the mu'la'dha'ra with the left heel and reverse the
process. One round means completing the process on both sides.

Practise four rounds, half a minute each time.


                        PRABHAT SAMGIITA

"Ga'n geye ja'bo, shono na' shono tav iccha'..."     P.S. 2305

Purport:

 Baba, I will go on singing Your song-- Your glory. It's up to You
whether You will grace me by listening to these songs or not. But with
these songs, in my deep contemplation, I will generate divine vibrations,
by Your grace-- and go on serving You.

 Baba with my deep yearning I am calling You again and again without
getting any response-- You are not paying heed to my call. By avoiding me
maybe You are thinking that I will not sing Your song anymore and that I
will remain quiet. And that in frustration, I will give up the hope of
getting You. And that I will no longer engage in the flow of those divine
tunes and melodies, which is inundating the vast sky, by Your grace. And
that I will not utilize these melodious treasures in my practical life to
go closer to You.

Baba, with the strength of knowledge, wisdom, intellect, and worldly
attributions, Your depth cannot be measured-- nobody can realise You. But
by surrendering that very unit "I" which already belongs to You, and with
the divine sweetness of singing Your name I will surely get You by Your
grace.  

Baba, I sing my songs only for You--to serve You, to please You. Please
be gracious and keep me on Your lap.

Note: In the above song, the sadhaka has deep love and a strong yearning
for Parama Purusa. So when Parama Purusa does not respond to his call in
the way that he desires, then the sadhaka makes one loving accusation
towards Parama Purusa. So actually that is not an accusation per se, but
rather an intimate type of loving expression. And Baba is approving that
devotees have the right to do like this and that this loving way of
communication is quite natural.



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               - The Solution -

Baba says, "Whenever there is a conflict between the brain and the heart,
intelligent people should respond to the call of the heart. The books in
A'nanda Ma'rga philosophy are all absolute knowledge. The proper mark of
identity of absolute knowledge is that it must be universal, rational and
psychological. Certain instances of absolute knowledge are as follows--
the goal of human life is the attainment of Brahma; human beings are the
progeny of Parama Purus'a...by dint of sa'dhana' or spiritual practices
human beings gradually become divine." (PNS-18, p.10)
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