UNDERSTANDING OUR PANCHA KOSHA
A Report on the Summer Intensive 2014 Classes at YOGNAT
Every year, the young ones of Pondicherry look forward to the advent of summer when they get their academic holidays and more importantly an opportunity to further their yoga and dance abilities through the May Intensive classes at Yoganjali Natyalayam (YOGNAT). This has been the pattern for the past 20 years and this year was no exception. More than 120 youngsters took part in Shlokam chanting, Yoga theory and practical sessions as well as Bharatanatyam classes conducted under the direction of AMMAJI, Yogacharini Meenakshi Devi Bhavanani. Dr Ananda led the a special programme focusing on the theoretical and practical applications of Pancha Kosha (the five aspects of our existence) as well as special Bharatanatyam lessons imparting skill, stamina and new compositions in collaboration with Yogacharini Devasena Bhavanani.
Class notes on the Pancha Kosha compiled by Yuvarani during the Summer Intensive classes held from May5th to June 1st 2014 by Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani at Yoganjali Natayalayam, Pondicherry, India.
This practice is a one pointed concentration on the form and Nada or sound of the sacred Pranava AUM, known as the Mantra of all Mantras. This can be done from any of the sitting postures but make sure that your back is erect. It is best to do this after performing a few rounds of conscious deep breathing so that the mind is in a calm state.
Pranava Dhyana harmonizes the body, emotions and mind. It is an important part of the Rishiculture Ashtanga Yoga tradition as taught by Yogamaharishi Dr Swami Gitananda Giri. In this practice emphasis is first placed on making the sounds AAA, UUU and MMM separately and then in combination. This is followed by the performance of the practice mentally without the audible sound.
Sit in Vajrasana and place the Chin Mudra on your thighs. Breathe in deeply into your lower chest area 2-3-4-5-6. Breathe out with the sound Aaaaa…….
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Now concentrate on the sound Aaaaa mentally and perform the same practice three times without the audible sound.
Curl your fingers inward to form the Chinmaya Mudra and place it on your thighs. Breathe deeply into your mid chest region 2-3-4-5-6. Breathe out with the sound Ooooo …….
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Now concentrate on the sound Ooooo… mentally and perform the same practice three times without the audible sound.
Perform the Adhi Mudra by clenching your fists with your thumb in the centre and place the Mudra on your thighs. Breathe deeply into your upper chest and clavicular regions 2-3-4-5-6. Now, exhale with the sound Mmmm…….
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Now concentrate on the sound mentally and perform the same practice three times without the audible sound.
To perform the fourth part of the practice that unites the three earlier parts perform Adhi Mudra and then place it with the knuckles of both hands touching in front of the navel. This is now known as the Brahma Mudra.
Take a deep breath into the low ……..mid ……..and upper chest ……..regions. Now let the breath out with the sounds of Aaaaa…Ooo… Mmmm ….
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----------
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----------------
Now concentrate on the sound Aaaaa------Ooooo------Mmmm and perform the same practice three times without the audible sound.
A performance of three to nine rounds of the Pranava Dharana when done daily helps to relax the Body-Emotion-Mind complex and provides complete healing through the production of healing vibrations at all levels of our existence. This is the cornerstone of Yogic breath therapy and can produce health and wellbeing for all.
When the concentrative aspect of the practice is taken to its peak, a state of mediation or Pranava Dhyana can ensue.
Class notes on the Pancha Kosha compiled by Yuvarani during the Summer Intensive classes held from May5th to June 1st 2014 by Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani at Yoganjali Natayalayam, Pondicherry, India.
This practice is a one pointed concentration on the form and Nada or sound of the sacred Pranava AUM, known as the Mantra of all Mantras. This can be done from any of the sitting postures but make sure that your back is erect. It is best to do this after performing a few rounds of conscious deep breathing so that the mind is in a calm state.
Pranava Dhyana harmonizes the body, emotions and mind. It is an important part of the Rishiculture Ashtanga Yoga tradition as taught by Yogamaharishi Dr Swami Gitananda Giri. In this practice emphasis is first placed on making the sounds AAA, UUU and MMM separately and then in combination. This is followed by the performance of the practice mentally without the audible sound.
Sit in Vajrasana and place the Chin Mudra on your thighs. Breathe in deeply into your lower chest area 2-3-4-5-6. Breathe out with the sound Aaaaa…….
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Now concentrate on the sound Aaaaa mentally and perform the same practice three times without the audible sound.
Curl your fingers inward to form the Chinmaya Mudra and place it on your thighs. Breathe deeply into your mid chest region 2-3-4-5-6. Breathe out with the sound Ooooo …….
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Now concentrate on the sound Ooooo… mentally and perform the same practice three times without the audible sound.
Perform the Adhi Mudra by clenching your fists with your thumb in the centre and place the Mudra on your thighs. Breathe deeply into your upper chest and clavicular regions 2-3-4-5-6. Now, exhale with the sound Mmmm…….
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Now concentrate on the sound mentally and perform the same practice three times without the audible sound.
To perform the fourth part of the practice that unites the three earlier parts perform Adhi Mudra and then place it with the knuckles of both hands touching in front of the navel. This is now known as the Brahma Mudra.
Take a deep breath into the low ……..mid ……..and upper chest ……..regions. Now let the breath out with the sounds of Aaaaa…Ooo… Mmmm ….
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----------
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----------------
Now concentrate on the sound Aaaaa------Ooooo------Mmmm and perform the same practice three times without the audible sound.
A performance of three to nine rounds of the Pranava Dharana when done daily helps to relax the Body-Emotion-Mind complex and provides complete healing through the production of healing vibrations at all levels of our existence. This is the cornerstone of Yogic breath therapy and can produce health and wellbeing for all.
When the concentrative aspect of the practice is taken to its peak, a state of mediation or Pranava Dhyana can ensue.
Yoga therapy has to be integrated to work at all levels of being, i.e. physical, mental, emotional as well as spiritual. All aspect of yoga is to be included to get wholesome effect of health and wellness.
For info log on to www.healthlibrary.com. Integrated Approach of Yoga Therapy By Mr. Devang Shah held on 16 Nov 2015.
Yogacharya Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani's presentation on Yoga Chikitsa at the Rishikesh International Yoga festival 2018 organised by Govt of Uttarakhand.
This presentation is a basic understanding of the Yoga Sutras in bullets. It is all about understanding yoga, which is a exact science to answer for many of your question. It is not an illustrative work and needs references for additional knowledge.
Defined about Health and Disease according to yogic text Patanjali Yoga Sutra.
SAGE PATANJALI
PATANJALI YOGA SUTRAS EVOLUTION
PATANJALI YOGA SUTRAS
YOGA SUTRAS
PADAS - SAMADHI
SADHANA
VIBHUTI
KAIVALYA
CONCEPT OF DISEASES –ANTARAYAS, SAHABHUVAS, VRITTIS, KLESHAS
CONCEPT OF HEALTH - WAYS TO ATTAIN, MAINTAIN HEALTH AND PREVENT, ELIMINATE AND TREAT DISEASES
CONCLUSION
REFERENCES
The Chrysalis Process is a holistic and transformational approach to your health and healing. Through a blend of the ancient health practices of Ayurveda, you will learn about your ʻdoshaʼ - your unique body composition.
Set within the framework and against the background authority and context of the Yoga canon - ancient and modern - this is an exposition of the seminal significance of prana (vital life force), its conscious control and expansion within the energy sheath (pranayama kosha) for the benefit of the human condition. The classical kumbhakas (pranayamas), their health benefits; physical, mental and emotional upon the various body systems are elucidated enabling a clear understanding of the application of these practices across the age range. Gender specific advice and guidance for the alleviation of stress and its related issues is given. Time honoured views on Swara Yoga are touched upon. Pranayama’s spiritual dimension completes the health benefits for the sadhak.
Yoga therapy has to be integrated to work at all levels of being, i.e. physical, mental, emotional as well as spiritual. All aspect of yoga is to be included to get wholesome effect of health and wellness.
For info log on to www.healthlibrary.com. Integrated Approach of Yoga Therapy By Mr. Devang Shah held on 16 Nov 2015.
Yogacharya Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani's presentation on Yoga Chikitsa at the Rishikesh International Yoga festival 2018 organised by Govt of Uttarakhand.
This presentation is a basic understanding of the Yoga Sutras in bullets. It is all about understanding yoga, which is a exact science to answer for many of your question. It is not an illustrative work and needs references for additional knowledge.
Defined about Health and Disease according to yogic text Patanjali Yoga Sutra.
SAGE PATANJALI
PATANJALI YOGA SUTRAS EVOLUTION
PATANJALI YOGA SUTRAS
YOGA SUTRAS
PADAS - SAMADHI
SADHANA
VIBHUTI
KAIVALYA
CONCEPT OF DISEASES –ANTARAYAS, SAHABHUVAS, VRITTIS, KLESHAS
CONCEPT OF HEALTH - WAYS TO ATTAIN, MAINTAIN HEALTH AND PREVENT, ELIMINATE AND TREAT DISEASES
CONCLUSION
REFERENCES
The Chrysalis Process is a holistic and transformational approach to your health and healing. Through a blend of the ancient health practices of Ayurveda, you will learn about your ʻdoshaʼ - your unique body composition.
Set within the framework and against the background authority and context of the Yoga canon - ancient and modern - this is an exposition of the seminal significance of prana (vital life force), its conscious control and expansion within the energy sheath (pranayama kosha) for the benefit of the human condition. The classical kumbhakas (pranayamas), their health benefits; physical, mental and emotional upon the various body systems are elucidated enabling a clear understanding of the application of these practices across the age range. Gender specific advice and guidance for the alleviation of stress and its related issues is given. Time honoured views on Swara Yoga are touched upon. Pranayama’s spiritual dimension completes the health benefits for the sadhak.
INTRODUCING INTEGRAL YOGA EDUCATION IN THE TEACHER EDUCATION CURRICULUMYogacharya AB Bhavanani
Bhavanani AB. Introducing integral Yoga psychology in the teacher education curriculum. Journal of the Indian Academy of Applied Psychology 2006; 32 (No.2) Special Issue: 204-13.
Kaya Kalpa Yoga developed by Vethathiri Maharishi is very good for those who suffer from PCOS. It also benefits Diabets. It has been proved that Kaya Kalpa yoga is also good for Psycho and physiological effect. Please learn from trained yoga master.
Yoga PPT. All yoga related methods are available in PPT
Yoga PPT. All yoga related methods are available in PPT
Yoga PPT. All yoga related methods are available in PPT
Yoga PPT. All yoga related methods are available in PPT
Yoga PPT. All yoga related methods are available in PPT
Yoga PPT. All yoga related methods are available in PPT
Yoga PPT. All yoga related methods are available in PPT
Yoga PPT. All yoga related methods are available in PPT
Yoga PPT. All yoga related methods are available in PPT
On behalf of Param Pujya Ammaji and the entire Gitananda Yoga Family Worldwide we wish all our readers a very happy and prosperous New Year 2024!
Our beloved Ammaji as Editor of Yoga Life always put Lord Vigneshwara, the ‘obstacle to all obstacles’ on the January cover, and we continue the tradition with this colourful image of the Divine Lord. We pray to the benevolent Lord Abhayakaravinayaka to bless us all in the New Year with wellness, happiness, prosperity and success in all our endeavors.
The inner covers highlight memorable moments from the wonderful time we had hosting the Yoga Studies team from the Loyola Marymount University, USA during their study tour of India. The front inner cover depicts special moments during the Indo-US Yoga Chikitsa Symposium at Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth that was graced by the present Vice Chancellor Prof NR Biswas and the past Vice Chancellor and Emeritus Professor Dr KR Sethuraman.
The back inner page depicts the wonderful time the LMU team led by Prof Lori Rubenstein Fazzio had at the ICYER Ananda Ashram during the two day Yoga Chikitsa Workshop as well as at the Sri Kambaliswamy Madam. They were blessed by Param Pujya Ammaji and Yoga Chikitsa Ratna Dr Madanmohanji who participated actively in all the sessions.
On the back cover Dr Anandaji as the Madathipathi welcomes all dedicated Sadhakas for the 150th Annual Guru Puja for Srila Sri Kambaliswamigal and 30th Guru Puja of Yogamaharishi Dr Swami Gitananda Giri Guru Maharaj to be held on 11th January 2024.
Yoga is the path of self-re-discovery, and we are fortunate to be guided by our illustrious Guru Parampara. May we always be worthy of their potent blessings and benevolent grace.
Dhivya Priya Bhavanani's talk on 7th January 2022 at the 27th International Yoga Festival, organized by the Government of Puducherry, Department of Tourism, Pondicherry, India from 4th to 7th January 2022.
Vibhaga and pranava pranayama of Gitananda Rishictulure Yoga by Dr AnandaYogacharya AB Bhavanani
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Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav Yogasana Tribute to the Nation on its 75th year of in...Yogacharya AB Bhavanani
We humbly dedicate this Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav Yogasana Tribute to the Nation on its 75th year of independence offered by the CYTER Team of Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, Pondicherry, India to each and every one of the great freedom fighters of our beloved Nation who contributed their mite during the freedom struggle.
We owe the freedom we savour today to their timeless sacrifices.
We will forever remain indebted to all of them.
Jai Hind !
Yogacharya Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani's special session on Yoga and the digestive system for members of the Rishiculture Gitananda Yoga Family.
Disclaimer: Copyrights of images used in the presentation belong to the respective owners and Dr Ananda doesn't claim any IPR on them and has used them only for educational purposes with no malafide intentions.
Yogacharya Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani's Keynote on "Integrating yoga therapy within the Modern Medical System" at the Global Yoga therapy Day conference 2021
YOGA AS THERAPY : Synthesis of Traditional Wisdom with Modern Scientific Know...Yogacharya AB Bhavanani
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Yoga and Cultural Misappropriation: An e-book by Dr Ananda, Malini and PadmaYogacharya AB Bhavanani
This e-book authored by Yogacharya Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani, Yogasadhaki Malini and Yogacharini Padma provides a road map towards manifesting culturally appropriate yoga in modern times. Yoga without its cultural context, is no longer yoga and hence we must be mindful of the necessity to retain the content for yoga to be alive through us.
This e-book is endorsed by the Indian Yoga Association – A self-regulatory body of Yoga Organizations. IYA is a maiden attempt to unite all yoga paramparas in a common cause. Indian Yoga Association is committed to promotion and advancement of Yoga and its applications around the world and industry-cum-self-regulatory body to facilitate activities of member institutions.
To know more about the IYA visit http://www.yogaiya.in/about/
To know more about Dr Ananda and the ICYER at Ananda Ashram, please visit www.rishiculture.in
Dr Ananda's invited presentation on Yoga Research: Past, Present and Future at the International E-conference titled "Recent Advances in the Medical Sciences International E - Conference, RAMSIECON 2021" organised by Department of Physiology, Yenepoya Medical College, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Deralakatte, Mangalore from 30th June to 3rd July 2021.
This e-book authored by Yogacharya Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani, Yogasadhaki Malini and Yogacharini Padma provides a road map towards manifesting culturally appropriate yoga in modern times. Yoga without its cultural context, is no longer yoga and hence we must be mindful of the necessity to retain the content for yoga to be alive through us.
Yogacharya Dr. ANANDA BALAYOGI BHAVANANI
MBBS, ADY, DPC, DSM, PGDFH, PGDY, FIAY, MD (Alt.Med), C-IAYT, DSc (Yoga)
Yogacharya Dr. Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani is Director of the Centre for Yoga Therapy Education and Research (CYTER), and Professor of Yoga Therapy at the Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, Pondicherry (www.sbvu.ac.in).
He is also Chairman of the International Centre for Yoga Education and Research at Ananda Ashram, Pondicherry, India (www.icyer.com) and Yoganjali Natyalayam, the premier institute of Yoga and Carnatic Music and Bharatanatyam in Pondicherry (www.rishiculture.in). He is son and successor of the internationally acclaimed Yoga team of Yogamaharishi Dr. Swami Gitananda Giri Guru Maharaj and Yogacharini Kalaimamani Ammaji, Smt Meenakshi Devi Bhavanani.
A recipient of the prestigious DSc (Yoga) from SVYASA Yoga University in January 2019, he is a Gold Medallist in Medical Studies (MBBS) with postgraduate diplomas in both Family Health (PGDFH) as well as Yoga (PGDY) and the Advanced Diploma in Yoga under his illustrious parents in 1991-93. A Fellow of the Indian Academy of Yoga, he has authored 19 DVDs and 26 books on Yoga as well as published nearly 300 papers, compilations and abstracts on Yoga and Yoga research in National and International Journals. His literary works have more than 2650 Citations, with an h-Index of 25 and an i10-Index of 50. In addition, he is a Classical Indian Vocalist, Percussionist, Music Composer and Choreographer of Indian Classical Dance.
In recent years he has travelled abroad 20 times and conducted invited talks, public events, workshops and retreats and been major presenter at Yoga conferences in the UK, USA, Italy, Czech Republic, South Africa, Germany, Switzerland, Malaysia, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
He is an Honorary Advisor to International Association of Yoga Therapists (www.iayt.org), Australasian Association of Yoga Therapists (www.yogatherapy.org.au), World Yoga Foundation (www.worldyogafoundation.in) and Gitananda Yoga Associations worldwide (www.rishiculture.in).
A recognized PhD guide for Yoga Therapy he was recognized as an IAYT Certified Yoga Therapist (C-IAYT) by the International Association of Yoga Therapists, USA in 2016. It is notable that he is the first Indian to receive this honour.
He is currently member of numerous expert committees of the Ministry of AYUSH including its National Board for Promotion of Yoga and Naturopathy, Scientific Advisory Committee & Standing Finance Committees of CCRYN, Technical Committee of the Yoga Certification Board, Expert Committees for Celebration of International Yoga Day and the National Yoga & Diabetes program. He is Consultant Resource Person for the WHO and its Collaborative Centre in Traditional Medicine (Yoga) at MDNIY, New Delhi. He is also EC member and Director Publications of the Indian Yoga Association (www.yogaiya.in).
Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani's ivited talk on "Yoga and Respiratory Disorders" for the International Capacity Building Workshop- Webinar on "Yoga for Non communicable Disease- A Scientific Perspective" hosted by MDNIY, New Delhi Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India and World Health Organization (WHO)
In Jude 17-23 Jude shifts from piling up examples of false teachers from the Old Testament to a series of practical exhortations that flow from apostolic instruction. He preserves for us what may well have been part of the apostolic catechism for the first generation of Christ-followers. In these instructions Jude exhorts the believer to deal with 3 different groups of people: scoffers who are "devoid of the Spirit", believers who have come under the influence of scoffers and believers who are so entrenched in false teaching that they need rescue and pose some real spiritual risk for the rescuer. In all of this Jude emphasizes Jesus' call to rescue straying sheep, leaving the 99 safely behind and pursuing the 1.
The PBHP DYC ~ Reflections on The Dhamma (English).pptxOH TEIK BIN
A PowerPoint Presentation based on the Dhamma Reflections for the PBHP DYC for the years 1993 – 2012. To motivate and inspire DYC members to keep on practicing the Dhamma and to do the meritorious deed of Dhammaduta work.
The texts are in English.
For the Video with audio narration, comments and texts in English, please check out the Link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zF2g_43NEa0
HANUMAN STORIES: TIMELESS TEACHINGS FOR TODAY’S WORLDLearnyoga
Hanuman Stories: Timeless Teachings for Today’s World" delves into the inspiring tales of Hanuman, highlighting lessons of devotion, strength, and selfless service that resonate in modern life. These stories illustrate how Hanuman's unwavering faith and courage can guide us through challenges and foster resilience. Through these timeless narratives, readers can find profound wisdom to apply in their daily lives.
The Chakra System in our body - A Portal to Interdimensional Consciousness.pptxBharat Technology
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Lesson 9 - Resisting Temptation Along the Way.pptxCelso Napoleon
Lesson 9 - Resisting Temptation Along the Way
SBs – Sunday Bible School
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MAGAZINE: THE CAREER THAT IS PROPOSED TO US: The Path of Salvation, Holiness and Perseverance to Reach Heaven
Commentator: Pastor Osiel Gomes
Presentation: Missionary Celso Napoleon
Renewed in Grace
The Good News, newsletter for June 2024 is hereNoHo FUMC
Our monthly newsletter is available to read online. We hope you will join us each Sunday in person for our worship service. Make sure to subscribe and follow us on YouTube and social media.
Exploring the Mindfulness Understanding Its Benefits.pptxMartaLoveguard
Slide 1: Title: Exploring the Mindfulness: Understanding Its Benefits
Slide 2: Introduction to Mindfulness
Mindfulness, defined as the conscious, non-judgmental observation of the present moment, has deep roots in Buddhist meditation practice but has gained significant popularity in the Western world in recent years. In today's society, filled with distractions and constant stimuli, mindfulness offers a valuable tool for regaining inner peace and reconnecting with our true selves. By cultivating mindfulness, we can develop a heightened awareness of our thoughts, feelings, and surroundings, leading to a greater sense of clarity and presence in our daily lives.
Slide 3: Benefits of Mindfulness for Mental Well-being
Practicing mindfulness can help reduce stress and anxiety levels, improving overall quality of life.
Mindfulness increases awareness of our emotions and teaches us to manage them better, leading to improved mood.
Regular mindfulness practice can improve our ability to concentrate and focus our attention on the present moment.
Slide 4: Benefits of Mindfulness for Physical Health
Research has shown that practicing mindfulness can contribute to lowering blood pressure, which is beneficial for heart health.
Regular meditation and mindfulness practice can strengthen the immune system, aiding the body in fighting infections.
Mindfulness may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and obesity by reducing stress and improving overall lifestyle habits.
Slide 5: Impact of Mindfulness on Relationships
Mindfulness can help us better understand others and improve communication, leading to healthier relationships.
By focusing on the present moment and being fully attentive, mindfulness helps build stronger and more authentic connections with others.
Mindfulness teaches us how to be present for others in difficult times, leading to increased compassion and understanding.
Slide 6: Mindfulness Techniques and Practices
Focusing on the breath and mindful breathing can be a simple way to enter a state of mindfulness.
Body scan meditation involves focusing on different parts of the body, paying attention to any sensations and feelings.
Practicing mindful walking and eating involves consciously focusing on each step or bite, with full attention to sensory experiences.
Slide 7: Incorporating Mindfulness into Daily Life
You can practice mindfulness in everyday activities such as washing dishes or taking a walk in the park.
Adding mindfulness practice to daily routines can help increase awareness and presence.
Mindfulness helps us become more aware of our needs and better manage our time, leading to balance and harmony in life.
Slide 8: Summary: Embracing Mindfulness for Full Living
Mindfulness can bring numerous benefits for physical and mental health.
Regular mindfulness practice can help achieve a fuller and more satisfying life.
Mindfulness has the power to change our perspective and way of perceiving the world, leading to deeper se
The Book of Joshua is the sixth book in the Hebrew Bible and the Old Testament, and is the first book of the Deuteronomistic history, the story of Israel from the conquest of Canaan to the Babylonian exile.
Kenneth Grant - Against the Light-Holmes Pub Grou Llc (1999).pdf
UNDERSTANDING OUR PANCHA KOSHA
1. UNDERSTANDING OUR PANCHA KOSHA A Report on the Summer Intensive 2014 Classes at YOGNAT Every year, the young ones of Pondicherry look forward to the advent of summer when they get their academic holidays and more importantly an opportunity to further their yoga and dance abilities through the May Intensive classes at Yoganjali Natyalayam (YOGNAT). This has been the pattern for the past 20 years and this year was no exception. More than 120 youngsters took part in Shlokam chanting, Yoga theory and practical sessions as well as Bharatanatyam classes conducted under the direction of AMMAJI, Yogacharini Meenakshi Devi Bhavanani. Dr Ananda led the a special programme focusing on the theoretical and practical applications of Pancha Kosha (the five aspects of our existence) as well as special Bharatanatyam lessons imparting skill, stamina and new compositions in collaboration with Yogacharini Devasena Bhavanani. The intensive began on the 5th of May with traditional Puja to our Guru Yogamaharishi Dr Swami Gitananda Giri Guru Maharaj. Every day the classes started at 2.45pm with Ammaji leading the students through 108 sacred names of the Guru Parampara followed by the chanting classes led by Yogachemmal Smt Meena Ramanathan who guided them through Srimad Bhagavadpada Adi Shakara’s Achchutashtakam that consists of eight verses in praise of Lord Krishna and Rama.
Dr. Ananda then guided the young ones through an exploration of the Pancha Kosha – the Five Spiritual Potentialities of human life. This beautiful ancient concept of actualizing human potential deals with the Annamaya Kosha (a strong, healthy conscious body), Pranayama Kosha (a vibrant, lively energy field), Manomaya Kosha (a focused, alert consciousness), Vijanamaya Kosha (effective use of prefrontal lobes of the human brain – the seat of wisdom, discrimination and rational thinking) and Anandamaya Kosha (centering the individual in the cosmic structure). These high concepts were presented in a digestible form with lots of fun and humour filled moments that were thoroughly enjoyed by all the kids. The theory covered in the course included Pancha Koshas and Trisharira, Pancha Maha Bhutas, Sapta Dhatus, Tridoshas and Trigunas, Prana Nadis, Prana Vayus, Jnanendriyas and Karmendriyas, Chitta Bhumi, Bindus, Chakras and the integration of Raja, Karma, Jnana and Bhakti Yoga in our human existence. The practices taught in the month in an integrated manner included Hasta and Pada Jathis ,Tala and Hasta Kona Kriyas, Shiva Surya Namaskar, Padottana Kriya and Asana, Hakara Kriya, Malla Kriya and Toppukaranam “Super brain Yoga”, Vajra-Veera Vajra with Mudras, Pachimottana-Purvottana Asanas, Pada Uttana and Pawan Mukta series, Baddha Padma- Yoga Mudra Asana, Vyagraha pranayama, Pranava Pranayama, Brahma Mudra, Trataka and Chakrshu Drishti (Moola, Nabhi, Kanta, Nasagra, Brumadhya, Bindu Nadi and Trikuti Bindus) as well as Spanda-nishpanda and Kaya Kriya. The much awaited 3-day residential camp was held at ICYER from 16-18th of May and attended by 40 students and teachers. The regular Ananda Ashram schedule was observed with all rising at 5am and having a full day of classes on the beach and in the Ashram premises. Many team events of the Swami Gitananda Youth and Child Award competitions were conducted including the Yoga quiz, Yoga dumb charades and team Yogasana
2. competition. Many fun filled moments were had by all as the children enjoyed the waves, the sun and the sands to their heart’s content. The bonfire on the beach was another gala evening with fun and frolic and much singing as all enjoyed their popcorn too. Shanti’s and Chira’s cooking always captivates the taste buds of our young ones and this time was no exception as each and every child enjoyed the tasty and healthy ashram food. The valedictory function for the intensive was held on June 1st at Yoganjali Natyalayam and the children showcased their skills for the dignitaries who included Thiru V Sivashanmugam (Retired Deputy Secretary, Govt of Pondicherry), Pulavar I Pattabiramanar, Dr N Ardhanari, Dr Vanaja Vaidyanathan, Shri CK Manoharun, Smt Mangala Gowri and others. Selvi YUVARANI was adjudged the BEST STUDENT OF THE INTENSIVE while DHIVYA PRIYA and ANANDRAJ BHAVANANI topped the prizes for most points garnered with Vidyashankari and Pratheebha bagging second and Pragathi and Nirmal received third prizes in senior and junior categories of the intensive. More than 30 students also received special prizes for their 100% attendance without missing a single class.
A special Pancha Kosha song was composed by Dr Ananda and choreographed into a dance that was taught to the young ones. The song “Anandamey paramanandamey” teaches us that bliss manifests when all the five Koshas are integrated. This helps us to understand the body through Annamaya, emotions through Pranayamaya, control thoughts through Manomaya and finally attain the integration of all three powers of intelligence in Vijnanamaya. We finally then can realize the vast universe within us in Anandamaya!
When you can do your work with love, passion and motivation producing happiness not only for yourself but for others too - then you are truly blessed in your life! We at YOGNAT are tremendously blessed by our Gurus, for, we are ever busy doing stuff that we love and enjoy. This also gives us the chance to constantly evolve ourselves on the path to liberation, the goal of human existence. “Work is worship” said our illustrious Guru Yogamaharishi Dr Swami Gitananda Giri Guru Maharaj and he makes sure we are busy worshiping the Divine a lot for he keeps us ever busy with newer plans every day. We at YOGNAT are truly blessed to be Sishyas of such a visionary founder and are constantly motivated towards excellence by our dynamic director and Guru, Puduvai Shakti, Ammaji, Kalaimamani Yogacharini Meenakshi Devi Bhavanani.
3. Excerpts from one of Dr Ananda’s classes Anything with a form/structure is a body represented by the Annamaya Kosha and when it functions, it is as if it has a Pranamaya Kosha. It is like a fan that has a structure, but only runs when electricity flows through it. Prana enables the structure to function. It gives the Shakti to do the activities as per the capacity of the structure. The physical heart is a part of the Annamaya and when the Prana flows, it beats because the Annamaya and Pranamaya are working in unison. But when we are human, there needs to be something more in addition to a basic structure and its functionality. That is MIND, the Manas that makes us a Manushya, Manithan, Maanav or human being. This is the potential of the Manomaya Kosha. An ability to know and respond to the surroundings accordingly is the lower part of the mind, something that is found even in animals. They respond or rather react to heat/cold, pain/pleasure, hunger, thirst, sound, sight etc. This is a typical reptilian, old brain response to stimuli that is part of us for millions of years. It is deeply ingrained in us too. That is why the four hungers are common to all living beings, desiring food, water, sleep and sex. What distinguishes them for us? What makes us a human/man/woman? It is Manas, the higher aspect of the Manomaya Kosha. This enables us to respond rather than react. The Annamaya kosha is the physical potential that we have as a human being. How much can we do? How far can we stretch? How much endurance/ strength/ flexibility do we have? But the actual potential is always much more than what we manifest. We are constantly growing, always a work in progress. All the physical practices we do in Yoga, enable this potential to manifest exponentially as best as possible within our limitations. We keep pushing our physical limits, breaking new barriers with each moment of our conscious life. Annamaya Kosha is made up of the Sapta Dhatus, the seven important component tissues providing the framework for our lives. Asthi is the bone tissue, the structural framework given by the skeleton, the joints and their interactions. The physical practices enable us to maintain skeletal health and to sustain a free mobility. “That which is not used, is lost” says the law of atrophy and this is very much applicable here. Maamsa refers to the muscle tissues/ flesh that give shape to the body and bestow movement potential. Remember the movements will only occur when Prana comes into the equation. We increase this physical potential for work with the yoga practices, utilising it at the appropriate time in an appropriate manner. The muscles have the potential for internal and external movement and may be either voluntary or involuntary in action. With conscious effort, we build up this potential and enable our free mobility throughout life. This enables us to expand our capacities, while preventing imbalance between groups of opposing muscles that otherwise result in tremors.
4. Rakta refers to the blood cells that are a part of our connective tissues providing immunity, oxygen carrying capacity, and hemostatic abilities etc. Rasa is the fluid component of the circulatory system and may be taken to be the plasma as well as the lymphatics. This is vital to maintain tissue perfusion and a normal blood pressure. Majja is the bone marrow, the seat where blood cells are formed in the centre of the long bones. This makes sure that the Rakta components are maintained at a healthy level. Meda is the adipose tissue and fat component of the body. It provides insulation, thus helping in our resistance to cold environments. It also provides a stored source of energy, a „safety locker‟ source that can be utilised in the event of starvation and food deprivation. It is also found in the human brain (remember the human brain has upto 60% fat) and in the blood as various lipoproteins such as LDL, HDL etc. Sukra refers to the endocrine hormones, enzymes and other neuro transmitters and more specifically to the seminal fluids that are referred to as Ojas. The transmutation of Ojas to Tejas is one of the major roles played by some of the Mudras that are grouped together in the Gitananda tradition under the term, Oli Mudras or Shakti Mudras. The Tridoshas, the three humours of the human body are Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Kapha stays in one place with limited/no movement whereas Vata helps movement. Pitta enables movement from gross to subtle through transformation as when water evaporates into steam. Water as ice may be described as Kapha, in liquid form as Pitta and in vapour form as Vata. Kapha is the component that holds things together, the glue that binds. It is the cohesive element, a combination of water and earth that is represented by mucous in the lungs, the stomach, joint fluid etc. Pitta is the fire of metabolism, the fire of digestion represented by the bile that is pushed from the gall bladder into the 2nd part of the duodenum through the biliary duct. Vata is the wind element that enables body movement to occur in the joints, and internal movements to occur in the nervous and circulatory systems as they move energy throughout the body. It is important that all three exist in a proper proportion for health as otherwise disorders manifest. Tiruvalluvar the great Dravidian saint says, “Miginum kuraiyinum noi seyyum noolor valimudhalaa enniya moondru (941) - If the three are in excess or deficient, then they cause disease in our body.” Yoga enhances the qualities of strength, endurance and felxibilty in the Annamaya Kosha by balancing the Tridoshas. The dynamic practices burn up the Kapha while the relaxation and cooling practices soften the Pitta. Balancing on different body points (tailbone, feet, hands, shoulder, head) and stability inducing techniques create a sense of grounding to harmonise Vata.
5. THE FIVE SHEATHS Taittiriya Upanishad Paraphrased- simplified- abridged by R.R.Diwakar [The spirit is, as it were, encased in five sheaths (koshas), one within the other. We first come across the gross material sheath, and then go deeper to more subtle sheaths, the last being the sheath of joy or bliss. This teaching occurs in the Taittiriya Upanishad and forms the subject of a conversation between Varuna and his son.] Bhrgu was the son of Varuna. He once approached his father and said: “Father, impart to me the spiritual knowledge you possess.” The father said, "Matter, vital airs, eyes, ears, mind, and speech are the things that you daily come across. You must now know that Reality from which all these things issue and live, towards which all these move and in which they finally merge. That is the Brahman. You can know him by tapas or concentration and meditation.” The son obeyed the father and after some meditation came to the conclusion that gross matter itself is the Brahman. He went and told his father so. But the father was not at all satisfied with his son’s findings and he exhorted him to go again and perform more tapas. “Meditation alone will give you real insight,” said the father. Then the son went away and began to meditate further. Next he realized that Prana or the vital power was Brahman and that it was out of Prana that things took their birth and into Prana they finally merged. Prana indeed is the life giving principle. But that too was not a satisfactory conclusion. His father asked him to go into meditation again. He then found that the mind or the psychic plane was the thing from which all manifestation emerged and merged again into it at the end. It was subtler than gross matter and prana and could pervade both of them. He reported this experience to his father. But the father sent him back again with the old advice to perform more tapas. Bhrgu again meditated and found that the power of understanding (vijnana) was the thing from which all things issued and towards which all things moved. But the father was not satisfied and repeated his advice to his son. The son again meditated and finally came to the conclusion that bliss or pure joy was Brahman (Supreme Spirit)- the source and the goal of all creation. All the beings are verily born in bliss, they exist by the power of bliss, and they all move towards bliss and into bliss they all merge in the end. When Bhrgu told his father about this conclusion of his, he was overjoyed and said, “Dear child, this indeed is the highest term of existence. All these five sheaths are there, one more subtle than the other, but the finest and the subtlest is bliss eternal. These are not mutually exclusive. They are inter-penetrating. But the basis of all is bliss, the bliss of Brahman, pure spiritual happiness. He who knows this and realizes it goes beyond all sorrow and death.” This is known as the Bhargavi Varuni Vidya.