EVALUATION

TASK FOR

DIPLOMA IN

HOLISTIC LIVING

DEEPIKA BALANI
 INDEX

1. A1 How spiritual life is applicable in

our daily life ?

2. A2 How Ashtang yoga can bring

perfection in body mind and soul?

3. A3 The knowledge of how to avoid

non nutrients food (junk food) and
observe good health always?

4. B Feedback

5. C1 Poem

6. C2 Sketch
 A1

HOW SPIRITUAL LIFE

IS APPLICABLE IN
OUR DAILY LIFE ?
INTRODUCTION
We are in our original forms i.e. the soul, which has been given this garb i.e. body, wherein
the soul resides, by God. From the very inception of the existence of life, it is the Divine
Power only that plays the crucial role. One cannot deny the fact that in whatever form / size
the soul takes birth in this universe, it is not possible without the divine will. The fact that is
to be realised is that when the very existence of a being, whether living or non-living is not
possible without the will of God, how can one think that this life is possible without the
spiritual aspect.

Further, we have been guided that one has to be a Karm Yogi i.e. one has to concentrate on
his / her karma and not the fruits. This means that the actual spiritual growth is not running
away from the responsibilities that God has given us, but it actually is the guiding force,
which helps us in choosing the correct path in order to live a meaningful and successful life
and ultimately merge with the supreme.

CONSTITUTIONAL ASPECTS OF RELATIONSHIPS

Our first spiritual Gurus i.e. our parents and Grandparents (Relations of 1st order), guide us
since our childhood and as we grow up they help in our overall development and decision
making processes. It is again up to the individual to follow their advice or not. Then come
our teachers who play an important part in our life by building our foundation and helping us
to become as to what has been destined by the God. Also God gives us so many other
relations in our life including relations of 2nd order, i.e. our brothers, sisters, cousins, uncles
and Aunts etc. and most importantly friends (Relationship with strangers), whether true or
not, who give us certain good / bad learning experiences in life, and there are some true soul
mates who be with us throughout our life time and thus help us evolve spiritually.
AS YOU SOW SO SHALL YOU REAP
Along with the constitutional aspect in an individual’s life, God has also surrounded us by
beautiful gifts of nature comprising of trees, plants, flowers, etc. and also animals, birds,
insects etc. thus giving us every possibility of our survival in this world. The sun, the moon,
the stars etc. and the air that we breathe, all make our existence possible in the universe.

Also by showing us all these gifts of nature, God also conveys the future of our Karmic
accounts. These are all live examples viewed by our naked eyes. For example when we
see animals / birds / insects etc., which in spiritual terminology are called ‘Beasts of Burden’,
it is seen now-a-days. How much they are suffering at the cruel hands of human beings, to
gratify their materialistic pleasures. It is truly said that “karm ka parivartan hi Bhagya ka
Parivartan hai”.

FOLLOW INNER CONSCIENCE

Whether a person believes it or not, the soul is the inner Guiding Force, which guides us on
the Godly path of life. It is up to a person whether he/she listens to it or not. It gradually
becomes all the more active when a person follows his inner conscience and guides us on
the right path, leading to success in all spheres of life and beyond. Thus, the soul helps in
settling our karmic accounts which we have been carrying life after life. A person not
following / listening to his conscience treads on a wrong path, thus accumulating wrong
karmas for his present life and future births and thus is entangled in the vicious circle of life
and death.

BASIC NATURE OF SOUL

The dilemma is that though we have all budded from God, yet we have forgotten the original
qualities, just because of the fact that we all human beings are so badly engrossed in this
materialistic world.

Our basic nature comprises of the following eight powers :-

1) Power of identification - i.e. of Truth v/s falsity

2) Power of judgement - i.e. of strengths v/s. Weaknesses
3) Power of withdrawal - i.e. taking control of ‘Karmendriyas’ in bad
times
4) Power of Tolerance - i.e. conversion of ‘Dukha’ to ‘Sukha’
5) Power to face the challenges - i.e. with full courage
6) Power of acceptance - i.e. just as sea accepts whatever comes its
way, one should accept the ‘avagunas’ of
others.
7) Power to accommodate/ - i.e. to overcome the influences of the
Pack-up past.
8) Power of co-operation - i.e. to succeed in the endeavours.

SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THE SUBJECT

a) VIKAARAS
i) Kaam-Vasna - A Buniyaadi Vikaar. Spiritually, the only requirement of Kaam-
Vaasna, is for the survival of all the living beings/things, due to the absence of
which, life would come to an end. In today’s times, over-indulgence in the same
is a cause of many crimes.
ii) Lobha/Lallach – Also a Buniyaadi Vikaar. Contentment should be there with the
basic understanding that whatever God has given us in more than what we
deserve. As we know since our childhood that “Excess of everything is Bad”.
iii) Ahankaar / Ego - This is the end-product of over-indulgence in the other two
vikaaras i.e. Kaam-Vaasna and Lobha/Lallach. Whatever we have been
bestowed with in this life and whatever we do, is actually the divine order in true
senses. The feeling that we are always right and we only have achieved
everything in life is the greatest drawback, which will eventually lead to our
downfall.
Now-a-days, an our whatsapp accounts, a message is doing the rounds where in
a person seeks peace from God stating that “I want peace”. To this the God
replies that “First remove the ‘I’ which indicates Ego and then remove the want,
which are desires, you will finally attain peace.”
(iv) Krodha and Moha - These are not exactly vikaars, but are a result of Buniyaadi
vikaars i.e. Kaam-Vaasna and Lobha/Lallach. If both the Buniyaadi vikaars are
not fulfilled krodah arises. In today’s world everyone encounters anger almost
every day and then succumbs to this vikaar. If right steps are taken to curb these
two vikaars, then one won’t land in the pit of Krodha and Moha.
(v) Jealousy - When there is excess of Lobha/Lallach in a person then arises
Jealousy. People are not happy with what they have and what they have been
getting, rather they are more worried about the achievement of others. They
don’t understand the fact that whatever they are getting is according to their
 karmas and that by being jealous, they are harming themselves only. People
now-a-days are spoiling their home / office environment because of their vikaar
and are unknowingly ruining their karmic accounts.

b) Be Truthful
(Rig Veda Mantra 4/23/8)
Another principle of spirituality states that we shall always be truthful. This is a key
which lacks all the doors of suffering. The Father of our nation also emphasized on
this very fact throughout his life. Though at times in life one feels that (s)he has been
left alone on this path but as one cannot stop the sun from rising and the light that
emanates, cuts through the darkness, like wise gradually when the truth unfurls, it
leaves everlasting impact and the person emerges as a winner.
c) Be vegetarian
Today, humans just to satisfy their little tongue are torturing the innocent animals /
birds by killing and consuming them (Tamasik Bhojan). This is a root cause of
illness, because of accumulation of toxins (as the science says), along with negative
vibrations.
d) Surrender and Acceptance
On the spiritual path, today surrender to God is a must. It is said that “Sukha, Dukha,
Raga, Dwesha” should be surrendered. At various points of time in our life we feel so
helpless that we don’t know what to do that is the real moment which is brought in
our life by dear God to teach us “total surrender” at his feet. Whatever we do we
should surrender to God, rather than start expecting the fruits. As a part of spiritual
practice, offer the greatest trials and fears to the divine. Have faith that one will find
peace within one’s challenges. Savour each moment of today with gentle gratitude
and courageous trust and allow anxious thoughts to melt in the sea of faith. Thus, if
this principle is understood and practised, one would learn acceptance.
e) Forgive and Forget
Another important feature of spirituality which needs a special mention is that one
should learn to forgive and forget the deeds which are done by others. This will
enable us to follow the Godly path because even in our thoughts we won’t curse the
other person or the wrong doings, thus will save us again from accumulating negative
karmas.
f) Live in Harmony
As it is known to us that a soul buds from God and thus it is endowed with pure
qualities.
 The dilemma is that we forget this truth because we are deeply engrossed in
materialistic world. Thus, by falling in this trap, we lose our peace as well as disturb
and trouble others’ peace creating a lot of problems.
Being peaceful is our basic nature. If we are peaceful internally, we radiate the same
and thus others are also at peace and not in trouble because of our deeds and this
create on overall positive impact in the society.

GANDHIJI’S THREE MONKEYS

Man always thinks of feeding his body but he should also take due steps to feel the soul with
positivity and purity – which he forgets.

By following the above principle, one can work on spiritual growth of the soul.

a) ^^cqjk er lquks^^
This implies that one should not indulge in gossip, instead should listen to God’s
music i.e., Bhajans, discourses, etc.
b) ^^cqjk er ns[kks^^
This implies that one should nether watch nor read bad content such as bad video
graphics, literatures etc., instead should see good and spiritual video graphies and
read spiritual books.
c) ^^cqjk er cksyks^^
This implies that one should not indulge in crating gossips or cursing and abusing,
instead should propagate good values and knowledge.
Also, one should speak less and listen more.

CONCLUSION
Be determined to tread on this path of spirituality provided by the divine and ultimately merge
into Him.
One should always follow the inner voice as this is the only way one can learn about the
Divine orders and achieve this Goal.
 A2

HOW ASHTANG YOGA CAN

BRING PERFECTION IN
BODY MIND AND SOUL ?
MEANING OF YOGA
Yoga is derived from a Sanskrit word ‘Yug’ in verb form which means to unite or to
join. Yoga is its noun form and means union. It is concerned with the union of the
individual soul with the Absolute or Divine Soul. It is a science of development of
man’s consciousness. Yoga is the “unification of Atma with Parmatma”. It also means
the unification of physical, mental, intellectual and spiritual aspects of human being.
The following definitions can be beneficial to understand the meaning of yoga:-

1. “Checking the impulses of mind is yoga.” – Patanjali.

2. “Yoga is attaining the pose.” – Maharishi Ved Vyas.

3. “Yoga is spiritual kamdhenu.” – Swami Sampurnanand.

4. “The knowledge about Shiva and Shakti is yoga.” – Agam.

5. “Oneness of man with God is known as yoga.” – Shri Bharti Krishan Tirth.

6. In Bhagwad Gita, Lord Krishna says, Skill in actions deficiency alone is yoga.”

7. Purna Yog, the path of integral seeking of the divine by which all that we are is
in the end liberal out of ignorance & its undivine formations into a truth beyond
the mind, a truth not only of highest spiritual status but of a dynamic spiritual
self – manifestation in the universe.
– Shri Aurobindo

HISTORY OF YOGA
The history of yoga is indeed very old. Nothing can be said firmly about the origin of
yoga. Only it can be alluded that yoga was originated in India. The available
evidences show that history of yoga is related to the Indus Valley Civilization. At that
time people used to do yoga. Usually, we depend on secondary sources about the
history of Yoga. On the basis of various sculptures and scriptures we reach at the
conclusion that yoga was a part of this civilization.
Sources: where yoga is mentioned
 History of Yoga is as old as Indian History. Yoga is mentioned in Mahabharata,
Ramayana and Upanishads. Patanjali also wrote about yoga in 147 BC.
During this period, yoga had been developed enough. Even Kabir, Tulsidas
and Surdas mentioned about yoga in their writings. Yoga is the main part of
Indian culture.

 The word ‘yunjate’ in ‘Rigveda’ gives the idea of the yoga for sense control.

 Various yogic practices and their physiological effects are also mentioned in
Upanishads.

 The Bhagwad Gita deals with the three paths of yoga, namely, Jana, Bhakti
and karma. It is an essence of various ideas and practices and yoga.

 Pranayama and other purification techniques used to occupy a significant

place in every ritual of people.

 Period wise distribution

1. Vedic Period. The words like, ‘yoga’ and ‘yogis’ are not used in Vedas
clearly. The word ‘yunjate’ in ‘Rigveda’ gives the idea of the yoga for sense
control.

2. Upanishadic period. Various yogic practices and their physiological

effects are also mentioned in Upanishads.

3. Epic Period. The Bhagwad Gita deals with the three paths of yoga,
namely, Jana, Bhakti and karma. It is an essence of various ideas and
practices and yoga.

4. Smriti Period. Pranayama and other purification techniques used to

occupy a significant place in every ritual of people.
 5. Medieval Period. During this period, the two cults i.e., Natha cult and
Bhakti cult were very famous. The literature of these cults shows that yoga
was very popular in these cults. Hathayoga was evolved and became very
famous in the Natha cult. The saints of these periods used to do various
yogic practices.

ROLE OF ASHTANG YOGA IN PERFECTION OF BODY MIND AND SOUL

It is a universal truth that modern age is the age of stress, tension and anxiety. Now
a days, most of the persons have not been leading a happy and fruitful life. They are
indulged in materialism. They are running after money. For such people, money is
mother, money is father and money is God. In fact, money is everything for them.
These people have excessive money in stores, even then they are mentally
disturbed. They can’t sleep without sleeping pills. Their life is full of problems. At
last, it can be alluded that everybody, whether rich or poor, is, not happy in the
present day life. Kin Hubbard has rightly said, “It is pretty hard to tell what does bring
happiness: poverty and wealth have both failed.” Everybody is in a hurry. Human
beings have no time to think about leisure. Everything is time bound and man is
running after them. This makes him tired physically and tense mentally. In order to
get rid of physical fatigue and mental tension and stress, man has devised certain
means. He attends parties and takes drinks for relief, satisfaction and relaxation, but
instead of getting peace and relaxation he comes with more tension, stress and
fatigue. Purchased relaxation does not provide him peace and satisfaction in real life.
He further sinks in various complex problems. Most of the people are leading such a
life. These problems are affecting such people physically, mentally and emotionally.
That is why, such people are falling prey to various diseases. At this juncture, yoga
can be very significant for us. We can get rid of such problems by practicing yoga.

PHYSICAL
1. Physical Purity: Internal organs of our body can be cleansed by various
yogic exercises. Basically, there are three substances in our body i.e. vaat,
pitt and kaph. If there is a proper balance of these substances in our body, we
may remain healthy. Neti, Dhoti, Nauli, Basti, Kapala bhati and Tratak, etc. are
such yogic exercises or shatkarmas which keep the internal organs or our
 body in a clean state. For the proper cleanliness and purity of our internal
organs, we should perform these yogic exercises regularly.

2. Cure and Prevention from Diseases. There are various diseases which
usually hamper the smooth functioning of people. Yoga not only prevents us
from many diseases but also cures them. Various yogic exercises increase
the immunity power of an individual performs yogic exercises regularly, he
cannot fall prey to diseases. Vajrasana cures diabetes. A large number of
diseases such as bronchitis, sinusitis, arthritis, gastritis, dyspepsia, asthma,
high blood pressure, leprosy, hay fever, heart attack, sciatica, menstrual
disorders, stress, urinary disorders, back pain, hysteria etc. can be prevented
as well as cured by various yogic exercises.

3. Beautification of Body. Everyone in this world wants to have a beautiful

body, because it is appreciated by everyone and in every society. Now a days,
obesity is common. Everybody wants to be slim, because overweight people
do not feel comfortable in any society. Various yogic asanas are the best to
get rid of this problem. Yogasanas make the body strong and perfect.
Mayurasana is helpful for facial beauty. Thorough yogic exercise face
becomes so beautiful that one does not require facial creams. In fact, yoga
brightens the face.

4. Keeps the Correct posture of Body. Now a days postural deformities are
common inn individuals. Without good posture they are unable to do their
work efficiently. They cannot enjoy the life. They usually put more energy in
simple tasks. If we perform yogic asanas regularly, we can keep the correct
posture of our body. Vajrasana, Sarvangasana, Mayurasana, Chakrasana,
Bhujangasana, Dhanurasana, etc. are not only preventive asanas but curative
also. Thorough these yogic exercises, we can keep our body in high profile.

5. Yoga can be Performed Easily. Everyone knows that exercises keeps you
physically fit and energetic. But, in present-day life everybody seems to be in
a hurry. Life has become fast. Every individual complains shortage of time. To
do exercise, other than yogic exercises requires enough time and money
 whereas, yogic exercises can be performed easily. These exercises can be
done in short duration and are not expensive. Moreover, these exercises can
be performed in less space.

6. Increases flexibility. Flexibility is very significant for every person. IT makes

the movements of body efficient and graceful. It is also helpful in preventing
sports injury. Various yogasanas increase the flexibility of body. Chakrasana,
Dhanurasanam Halasana, Bhujangasana and Shalabhasana are beneficial for
increasing flexibility. Muscles also become flexible by performing these
asanas.

7. Reduces Obesity. Obesity is a worldwide problem. Obese people fall prey to

various diseases. Yogic exercise can help in reducing obesity. For example,
pranayama and yogic asanas specially meditative asanas reduce the obesity.
Research studies have shown that obesity is also caused by mental tension
and stress. So, by reducing mental tension through meditative asanas obesity
can be reduced.

8. Role of Yoga in Sports . Generally, it is considered that yoga is mainly

related to the spiritual development of the individual. Up to some extent, it is
exactly right to think like that. In the same way, yoga is not directly related to
field of sports and games. But the research studies, which have been
conducted on the role of yoga in sports, clearly show that yogic practices are
beneficial in the enhancement of health and fitness of sportspersons. In fact,
yoga can play a vital role in the field sports by improving health and fitness of
sportspersons. Various yogic practices like Yama, Niyama, Asanas,
Pranayama and Meditation, etc. improve health and fitness of individuals. In
fact, to know the role of yoga in sports, it is essential to know the physiological
as well as psychological effects of yoga on individuals. Various effects of yoga
on individuals are stated below:

MENTAL AND SPIRITUAL

1. Reduces Mental Tension. Yoga can help in reducing the tension. It is a well-
known fact that most of the persons remain under stress and tension. They do
not get peace anywhere. They feel upset and disturbed in the present-day life.
They think that money can bring happiness and peace to their life but in
further intensifies their stress and tension. Pratyahar, Dharana and Dhyan
play a vital role for getting peace of mind. Makarasana, Shavasana,
Shalabhasana, Suptasana and Bhujangasana are beneficial for releasing
stress and tension.

2. Provides Relaxation. Rest and relaxation are essential for removing fatigue.
When we indulge in any physical or mental work after some time, we feel
fatigue. At this juncture, we cannot do further work. So, we need relaxation.
Shavasana and Makarasana are really very beneficial of relaxation.
Padmasana and Nadam Sadhana are best means of reducing mental fatigue.

3. Spiritual Development. Thorough yoga, efforts can be made to attain

spiritual development. We can have a good control on mind by using regular
yogic exercises. If our mind is pure, we can make efforts to achieve spiritual
heights. An individual persistently pays attention to God, he forgets about
himself. He does not know, who is he or what is he doing? Padmasana and
Siddhasana are best asanas enhance the meditation power. Pranayama is
also useful for spiritual development that brings peace in life.

4. Enhances Moral and Ethical Values. Now a days there is a declining trend
in moral and ethical values. By following the first two steps of astanga yoga,
moral and ethical values can be enhanced. In fact, the practice of yama and
niyama such as non-violence, truthfulness, aparigraha, non-stealing,
swadhyaya, santosh, etc. make an individual more moral and ethical. In a
nutshell, it can be concluded that yoga is very significant for human being
specially in present day life. An individual can attain perfect health and he can
lead a happy, contented, exhilarated and fruitful life, if he performs yogic
exercises regularly.
5. Improvement in Concentration Power. The concentration power is very
significant in the field of sports. Concentration is required approximately in all
games and sports. In fact, endurance, strength and desire to excel lose their
meaning if there is no concentration. For example, when a badminton player
displays his concentration his gaze is fixed on shuttle and his energy, tactics
and skill produce very good results for him. Some asanas like Vajrasana,
Vriksasana, Padmasana and Siddhasana etc. and Pranauama such as Ujjayi,
Kapalbhati and Bhastrika
ELEMENTS OF YOGA EXPLAINED WITH RESPECT TO ROLE OF YOGA AND
BRINGING PERFECTION IN BODY MIND AND SOUL

Patanjali described eight elements of yoga in Yogasutras. These are called eight-
fold paths or eight steps through which ultimate goal of yoga can be achieved i.e.
union of our soul to the supreme soul. These elements of yoga are stated below:
1. Yama
2. Niyama
3. Asana
4. Pranayama
5. Pratyahara
6. Dharana
7. Dhyana
8. Samadhi

The practice of each element is very important for the attainment of the goal of
yoga. After getting efficiency in one element, we should proceed to the next
element. The elaboration of these elements is given below:

1. Yama
Yama is the first element of Astanga yoga. Through the practice of yama one
can abstain from doing things that keep one’s mind involved in the
indiscriminate struggle for survival. One can remain away from violence. Yama
consists of five moral codes of conduct. According to Maharishi Patanjali, there
are five yama, i.e. Ahimsa or Non-Violence, satya or Truthfulness, Asteya or
Non-stealing, Brahmacharya and Aparigraha. The brief explanation of yama is
given below:
(a) Ahimsa or Non-violence. It means, one must keep away from causing harm to
any to organism or human being. Anxiety, jealously, hate, anger and such types of
negative emotions are included in violence. So, we must remain away from these
emotions. We must not injure anyone. We must not speak ill of others. We must
not display any negative emotion. There must be love, affection and regard for
human beings as well as other creatures.
 (b) Satya or Truthfulness. Satya is very important yama. According to satya, we
must be truthful in thought, word and deed. We must not tell a lie. We must
abstain from falseness of any kind. We must not speak to others in a deceitful
manner. At any cost, we must speak the truth.
(c) Asetya. Asetya means non-stealing. The propensity to use others’ objects, money
or thoughts for our own benefits is stealing. We must abstain from it. If we think
about stealing something it is also considered stealing. If we do not use our
surplus money in other person’s sufferings, it means that we are stealing it from
the God. So, neither we should steal anything nor we should motivate others to
steal. We should feel satisfied, whatever the God has given us.
(d) Brahmacharya. Not to take such diet that stimulates sexual desire, not to read
pornographic or sexy literature, and not to indulge in masturbation or any sexual
relations is called Brahmacharya. We must keep the above points in our mind so
that we can follow the path of brahmacharya.
(e) Aparigraha: Aparigraha means- to collect money and property for self-interest and
on the contrary Aparigrahas means- to lead a life with minimum requirements. It is
an attitude of mind that does not consider anything to be our own. We should not
desire for physical pleasures. So we must follow aparigraha.

2. Niyama
Niyamas are related to individuals body and senses. Niyamas are also ethical
practices as yamas. There are five niyamas such as Saucha, Santosh, Tapa,
Swadhya and Ishwara Pranidhana. Their brief explanation is given below:
(a) Saucha. Saucha means purity. We must be clean physically as well as
mentally. We must keep our body clean externally as well as internally. A
special emphasis is given on the purity of internal organs in yoga. For the
purity of internal organs there are six shudhi kriyas or shatkarmas in yoga
such as neti kriya, kapalabhati kriya and dhoti kriya. etc.
(b) Santosh. Santosh means contentment. We must develop a feeling of
satisfaction in all situations of life. We must feel satisfied what God has
given us. We should not run after desires.
(c) Tapa. To endure the difficulties, obstacles and complex situations easily
in the way of attaining the objective and to go ahead continuously
towards the goal is called Tapa. We should accept the conflicts like
pleasure and pain, loss and gain easily.
 (d) Swadhyaya. To study the great Vedas, Granths, Upanishads,
Yogdarshan and Gita with devotion is called Swadhyaya. It is the type of
study. Second type of study is the study of self. To know about who am I?
What should I do? What am I doing? What is the aim of my life? The
above two types of studies are related to Swadhyaya.
(e) Ishwara Pranidhana. It is a very important stage of Niyama. To dedicate
all the deeds to God is called Ishwara Pranidhana. In such a stage, a true
devotee thinks that what facilities and prosperity such as body, mind,
youth, intelligence, position, power and respect, etc. he has achieved in
life are only due to God’s grace. He surrenders to the God and removes
vanity, pride, ego and other impurities from his mind.

3. Asana
After yama and niyama, asanas come on third number. Asana means ‘position
or posture of body’. It also means to sit in easy posture. Due to its popularity,
most of the people think that yoga is nothing but asana. They are not aware that
asana is a step towards yoga. In fact, asana are performed to keep the body
flexible, agile and young. Asana also enhance the beauty of the body by
reducing inappropriate accumulation of fat in the body. There are various type
of asana such as corrective asana, relative asana and meditative asana. These
types of asana have different types of effects on various organs of body. These
asana activate the functions of various organs. Asanas can be performed from
young age to old age without any problem.

4. Pranayama
Pranayama is the control of the process of breathing. It means the appropriate
control over inhalation and exhalation. Basically, there are three constituents of
pranayama i.e. Puraka (Inhalation), Kumbhaka (Retaining the breath) and
Rechaka (Exhalation). There are various types of pranayama such as Ujjayi,
Suryabhedi, Sheetkari, Sheetali, Bhastrika, Bhramari, Murcha and Plavini. It
helps in metabolic activities and enhances the function of heart and lungs.

5. Pratyahara
 Pratyahara is a process of self-control in which an individual becomes able to
control over his senses. Indeed, to introvert the mind and senses is called
pratyahara. In pratyahara, the senses no longer respond to the external objects
that hinder mental concentration. The attachment of various senses such as
words, beauty, touch, taste and smell, etc. diverts the individual from the way of
self-welfare. The practitioner of pratyahara starts feeling extreme pleasure in
God.

6. Dharana
Dharana is the concentration of mind. Generally, it is seen that the mind has a
tendency to get scattered but if the scattered mind is brought under control and
set to one focal point, concentration is said to be achieved. The focal point can
be in the center of the forehead or navel or a pointed soothing light at a
distance. Dharana is the first step towards Samadhi. In fact, dharana is a
mental exercise which enables a yogi to go ahead towards dhyana and
Samadhi.

7. Dhyana.
Dhyana is a process to complete constancy of mind. It is a stage prior to
Samadhi. Generally, dhyana remains attached to our life at every moment.
Whenever we perform any specific task in the family it is usually advised to do
that task with ‘dhyana’ (Dhyan se karana). But we do not understand its
appropriate meaning. In fact, dhyana is a complete concentration of mind over
a period of time without any divergence.

8. Samadhi.
The union of individual’s soul with the Supreme soul is called Samadhi.
Samadhi is also called the checking or destruction of all the impulses of mind.
During the stage of dhyana, when the disappearance of self-awareness takes
place, the yogi attains the stage of Samadhi. He begins to feel the real truth.
He forgets himself completely. He begins to experience the divine pleasure.
 EXAMPLE OF SOME ASANAS IN YOGA WHICH BALANCE BOTH THE PHYSICAL
AND MENTAL ASPECTS:

The following yogic exercises have numerous advantages for maintaining good health:

1. Trikonasana:
First of all stand with legs apart. Then raise the arms sideways up to the shoulder
level. Bend the trunk sideways and raise the right hand upward. Touch the ground
with left hand behind left foot. After some moments, do the same asana with opposite
arm in the same way.
Advantages
1. It alleviates the nervous depression.
2. It improves digestion.
3. It reduces the waistline fat.
4. It alleviates constipation.
 2. Vajrasana:
It is a meditative asana. Kneel down on the ground or floor with your knees, ankles
and toes touching to the ground. Your toes should be stretched backward. Now place
your palms of your both hands on the knees. The upper body should be straight. At
this time, the breathing should be deep, even and slow. Then expand your chest and
pull your abdominal portion inwards.
Advantages
1. It is helpful for concentration.
2. It is helpful for getting rid of dysentery, back pain and chest diseases.
3. It enhances the power of memory.
4. It removes the problems related to mensuration.
5. It removes the mental disappointment.

3. Shavasana:
Lie down in supine position. Legs should be straight. Keep the arms away from the
body. Leave all the limbs loose as well as relaxed. Gradually, breathe in deeply.
Close your eyes and think that your whole body is getting loose. Feel a complete
relaxation in your body. Remain in this position for 2 to 3 minutes.
Advantages
1. It strengthens the nervous system.
2. It controls the high blood pressure.
3. It relieves mental tension.
4. It gives new vigour to both mind and body simultaneously.

CONCLUSION (OUR UNDERSTANDING OF YOGA)

Yoga is a spiritual discipline. It comprises not only of asanas and pranayam, rather it has
holistic approach.

Mind and body are our instruments which are both taken care of by yoga, thus giving us
overall development in all planes of life viz physical, mental, spiritual, emotional, social
etc.

Yoga also offers guidance in using these instruments correctly and achieve higher
purpose of living.
 A3

THE KNOWLEDGE OF HOW

TO AVOID NON NUTRIENTS
FOOD (JUNK FOOD) AND
OBSERVE GOOD HEALTH
ALWAYS?
 PROOFS OF ILL-EFFECTS OF JUNK FOOD

 FOOD CLASSIFICATION
(basic knowledge required for understanding of ill-effects of junk food)

Food is divided into three categories —

1. Tamsik Food or Vicious Food—The food which is partially spoiled, in which

important element has got destroyed, which is cooked for a long time and
preserved in such a manner that necessary life element has been destroyed
is called tamas food.
For example, meat, egg, putrid food, stale food, spicy food, too hot or cold
food, fried food, packed food, tobacco, etc. It gives rise to cancer, heart
related disease, ulcer, etc.

2. Rajsik food or Royal food—Food which is sour, salty, very hot, spicy are
royal food.
For example, junk food, sweets, namkeen, tea, coffee, soft drinks, fast food,
spicy vegetable, pun, pan masala, wine, etc.
This type of food creates a strong stimulation which dominates increasing the
working of uncontrolled impulse and desires which results in pain and
diseases.

3. Satvik Diet or virtuous Diet—Those foods which enhance long life, power,
health, happiness, affection and are full of nutrition, easy to digest are satvik
food.
For example, fruits, vegetables, leafy vegetables, juices, sprouted cereals and
soaked dry fruits. This food cures diseases and provides a disease free life.

 Types of Food
(basic knowledge required for understanding of ill-effects of junk food)

Food is life for all living beings. All are dependent on food for life, prosperity,
pleasure, satisfaction, body-nutrition, power and intellectuality. If it is taken in a wrong
way it may be harmful. So it becomes important to know that which food should be
taken in which form, so that it becomes beneficial for the body. On the basis of
softness, solid, semi-solid and liquid food, it can be divided into six categories.

1. Sipable — those food which are consumed by sipping, e.g. sugarcane, orange,
etc.
2. Drinks — drinkable food, e.g., juices.
3. Lickable—which are consumed by licking, e.g. honey, chutney.
4. Soft Chewable — which can be chewed easily, e.g. pulpy fruits.
5. Mild chewable — which are eaten after breaking by teeth or by cutting or by
chewing, e.g. fruits, vegetables, etc.
6. Chewable — it is consumed by chewing properly, e.g. groundnut, sprouted
cereals, etc.

The first food is easy to digest then second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth is the heaviest to
digest.
 Cause of disease: accumulation of toxins in our body

Toxins accumulate in our body due to many causes, but the diet related causes are
as follows:
1. Lack of balanced diet.
2. Imbalance of alkali and acid in our food.
3. Consumption of unmatchable and contradictory food items.
4. Spicy, heavy and fibreless food.
5. Overeating
6. Consumption of intoxicating food
7. Eating food late in the night.

Junk food many times is prepared hours before selling them and also left overs are
sold next day, if the stock is left. Thus, causing diseases.

In our daily life all food should be taken in right proportion.

 Very hot food or drink, decreases the strength of the body.

 Very cold stuff takes long to digest.

 Chewing less or eating fast prevents the juice secreted by glands in the mouth to mix
with the food, hence they take long to digest.

 Drinking water with food, dilutes the digestive juices hence digestion does not take
place properly.

 Improper combination of food increases disorders.

 Eating food without real hunger inceases the urge to add extra salt and spices which
leads to increase in toxins.

 Immediately after the food is consumed, the life force starts digesting the food with its
full capacity. Therefore till one hour after, having food, one should not swim, run,
exercise, intercourse, dance or any other work involving excessive exertion as they
hinder the process of digestion.

 Intake of more food than required, decays and ferment thus formation of toxins in the
body.
 Natural salt v/s artificial salts
Natural salt contains many trace elements. When dietary deficiency of trace elements
occurs, cells lose the ability to control their ions. It causes, cells to burst, nervous
disorder, brain damage, muscle spasm, breakdown of cell regenerating process and
growth. Twenty-seven percent of the body’s natural salt is in the bones. Osteoporosis
results when the body needs more natural salt and takes it from the bones.

Ordinary table salt contains additive elements such as aluminium silicate to keep it
powdery and porous. Aluminium is a very toxic element in our nervous system. It is
implicated as one of the primary causes of Alzheimer’s disease. The refined salt after
different bleaching process will not longer combine with human body fluids, it
invariably causes severe problems of edema (water retention) and several other
health disturbance.

Unrefined sea salt is a better choice of salt than other types of salt in the market.

Body gets sufficient natural salts from raw vegetables and their juices.

 HARMFUL ADDITIVES IN FOOD

Use of fast food like, preserved (packed) food, soft drinks, ice creams, chocolate,
toffees, bread, junk food, etc., is rapidly increasing instead of natural food cooked at
home. These food items are attractive and easy to use but also costlier and harmful
for the body. These food items are like slow poisons which destroys our body and
mind. Chemicals used in them give rise to different diseases. Some chemicals are
preservatives and some are mixed for artificial fragrance and taste. Some chemicals
are mixed so that stale food appears fresh. Some chemicals among them may be
stored in the fat of the body for a long time which increases the possibilities of deadly
disease like cancer.

To make food items attractive, different chemicals are used which increase the
possibility of mouth ulcer, indigestion, throat pain, black patches on the body and
asthma. It increases the possibility of liver cirrhosis.

Some Chemicals used for artificial taste

Cherry flavour — Benzaldehyde, benzoic acid, ethyl alcohol, etc.

Pineapple flavour — Ethyl butyrate.
Grapes flavour — Methyl anthranilate, amyl butyrate.
Banana flavour — ISO amyl. acetate with ethyl alcohol.
Strawberry flavour — Ethylmethy1 phenyl glycidate.
Raspberry flavour — lonone
Butter flavour — Diacetyl.
Apple flavour — Amy! valerianate with other chemicals such as
ethyl alcohol, glycerine, tartaric acid,, etc.
Coffee flavour — Benzyl benzoate, ethyl acetate.
Cola flavour — Caffeine, glycerine.

These chemicals are found in soft drinks, cold drinks, drinks in closed cans and
closed bottles. These give rise to ulcer, colitis and sinusitis diseases.
 USE OF DIFFERENT CHEMICALS AND THEIR AFFECT

Phosphoric Acid
It reduces calcium from the teeth and bones. Memory power decreases and immune
system also weakens. Diseases like asthma arthritis, diabetes, etc., may appear. It is
used in sugar, vegetable ghee, soft drinks and other cold drinks.

Sodium hydroxide (Caustic Soda)

It creates burning sensation in the digestive system and ulcer. It may lead to fibrotic
growth. Extracts of it are found in refined oils and vegetable ghee.

Sulphur dioxide gas

It is a very poisonous gas. It is an allergenic. It weakens the immune system. It is
used in sugar and refined oil formation.

Formaldehyde
It hardens the tissues. It gives burning sensation to respiratory and digestive system.
It destroys kidneys. It also gives burning sensation to eyes, nose and throat. It harms
the nervous system. It may lead to cancer. It is used in the formation of sugar. It is
also used as a preservative. It is also found in tooth paste and shampoo.

Monosodium glutamate
It is also known by the name of Ajinomoto, Ascent, Vetsin. It damages the brain. It
gives burning sensation. It gives rise to the diseases like headache, chest ache,
excessive sweating, allergy, etc. It is used in fast food to make it tasty and to show
the stale food as fresh.

Sodium Benzoate
It disturbs the balance of sodium, potassium and sodium phosphorus in our body. It
increases the blood pressure. It is used as a preservative.

Oxalic acid
It increases acidity. It is used to increase the taste.

Caffeine
It brings genetic changes in the body. It also harms the structure of DNA and RNA
and its effect can be seen in future generations. It causes nausea, sleeplessness,
indigestion, stretch in muscles and mental disturbance. It stimulates the nervous
system. It is used in soft drinks, chocolate, etc. It is also found in tea, coffee and
tobacco.

Saccharine
It is a synthetic sweet substance which is also known as sugar free food. It is 500
times sweeter than sugar.

It is fatal for kidney and pancreas. It is cheaper than sugar so used in soft drinks, cold
drinks, beverages, etc.

Soft Drinks
Different kinds of chemicals are mixed in soft drinks which are harmful to health. Soft
drinks weaken teeth and bones as they absorb calcium from the body. Human teeth
which does not decay if buried in soil for years, gets decayed only in 20 days if put in
soft drinks. Toilets will get cleaned like with acid if soft drinks are put in them for 1
hour. These soft drinks cause diabetes, blood pressure, insomnia, headache,
stomachache, acidity, obesity, etc. They are harmful to heart and liver.
 PRESERVED FOOD
A man becomes a victim of constipation, piles, sore in intestine, eye disease, blood
pressure, heart disease, cancer, etc., due to the chemicals present in preserved food.
They have ill effect on kidneys also.

Fast Food and Junk Food

They also have the chemicals like ajinomoto or mono sodium glutamate which slowly
stores in body. So the whole body becomes toxic. It increases the possibility of
cancer. It is also harmful for intestine, liver ind kidney. It harms the eyes. Children
suffer from asthma and continuous headache. Memory can weaken.

Persons having such food become violent and may have mental disorders. Obesity
increases which results in high blood pressure, heart diseases, diabetes, etc.

Ice Cream
Instead of milk and cream, oil and water is used in formation of ice cream through
western techniques. Milk is in very small quantity. To make it soft, stabilizers are
mixed in it. It also has many chemicals, e.g. propyline, glycol aldinate which is a pain
killer and germicide. For taste and fragrance piperonal is mixed which is a lice killer.

White Bread
It has no fiber. Lack of fiber results in constipation, diabetes, heart disease, cancer
and digestive disorder. To make bread soft, tasty and to preserve it for long time
chemicals are mixed. These are harmful to health.

Chocolate
It has lead which stops the growth of children. Cavity starts in the teeth even in the
age of 7-8 years.

Note — There are so many other chemicals which are used in food substances for
different purpose which are fatal for our body.

 Junk foods especially non veg. foods cause auto intoxication (Most diseases of the
human body are caused by intoxication or self-poisoning. The flesh of animals
increases the burden of the organs of elimination and overloads the system with
animal waste matter and poisons. Chemical analysis has proved that uric acid and
other uremic poisons contained in the animal body are almost identical to caffeine,
thien and nicotine, the poisonous stimulating principles of coffee, tea and tobacco.
This explains why meat stimulates the animal passions and creates a craving for
liquor, tobacco and other stronger stimulants. Excessive uric acid resulting
from meat eating also causes diseases such as rheumatism, Bright’s disease, kidney
stones, gout and gall stones. Meat proteins cause putrefication twice as rapidly as do
vegetable proteins.) and then occurs biomagnifications of these toxins.
 6 tastes
All taste should be in right proportions in our food for being healthy. First four tastes
may bear disease. Last two tastes are disease removers. During illness, for blood
purification these two tastes help. Use of these two tastes in our daily diet is a must.
Fenugreek seed, fenugreek water, sprouted fenugreek, amla powder, amla water can
be use alternatively for these two tastes.

1. Immunity is reduced by junk foods because they contain too much sugar/salts
and also use saturated and transfats oils, thus killing the important nutrients,
vitamins and minerals.

2. Junk food contains excess calories which are not required by us. Such extra
calories are stored as fats in our body. Thus gives obesity to our body.
One should maintain balance between energy consumed and energy
absorbed by our body.
 3. Daily requirement of average Calories

AGE K. CAL. REQUIREMENTS PER

DAY

Children
Up to six month 120 K. Cal. per 1 kg. weight
7-12 months 100 K. Cal. per 1 kg. weight
1-3 years 1250 K. Cal.
4-6 years 1700 K. Cal.
7-9 years 1950 K. Cal.

Boys
10-12 years 2200 K. Cal.
13-15 years 2500 K. Cal.
16-18 years 3000 K. Cal.

Girls
10-12 years 2000 K. Cal.
13-15 years 2200 K. Cal.
16-18 years 2200 K. Cal.

Men
Doing Light work 2200 K. Cal
Doing medium work 2800 K. Cal.
Doing heavy Work 3400 K. Cal.

Women
Doing light work 1900 K. Cal.
Doing medium work 2250 K. Cal.
Doing heavy Work 2950 K. Cal.

 Change is also necessary in the kitchen.

Indian kitchen science is the most prosperous one in the world. Different kinds of
food items like sweets, pickles, jams, and other dressed food are prepared in the
Indian kitchen. But this is giving harm to our body. It is the misuse of money, labour
and time.

This is due to our kitchen science that we are taking milk by boiling to till it become
thickened (khoya) and we use it fondly. Khoya is nothing but just like the coal of milk.
We use sweets made of khoya and maida interestingly which are indigestible and
give rise to different diseases. The same thing goes for fried and roasted items.

We deteriorate the natural form of food to make it tastier but this is something like
changing living things into non- living things. By frying, roasting and mixing spices it
may become tasty but from the health point of view it will be useless and a waste.

Frying, roasting and use of excess spices should be banned in kitchen. if sweets,
dressed food and spicy items are considered non-foods, it will be a boon for health.
In the modern world there are three types of kitchen—

(2) Natural kitchen — Nature has given cereals, fruits, vegetables, etc. If a man uses
them in their natural form then he will be healthy, disease free and live a long life.
Only man cooks food for his own. Other animals use food in their natural form. That
is why a man falls sick frequently.

(3) Man made kitchen — In which food is cooked by three types —

(a) By cooking in steam — It falls in the second category as compared to
uncooked food. Mostly nutrients do not get destroyed by this way of cooking.
(b) By boiling—This process comes in third category. Most of the nutritious
elements get destroyed by this process.
(c) By frying, roasting, using excess of salt — this falls in the fourth category. This
is the most harmful process for the health.

(4) Machine Kitchen — Food prepared in factories in which preservatives, transfats, etc.,
are in plenty, are harmful for the health. They are tasty only but lack in nutrients.

 Natural foods also help in enhancing beauty of skin.

As we all know natural glow is everlasting because it is a result of good health.

a. Apply ripened banana on the skin and throat for 15-20 minutes. Rub it with tissue
paper. Wash it with fresh water. It gives nutrients, freshness and softness to the
skin. –
b. Peel a pear. Apply its pulp on the face. Wash after some time, it removes skin
dryness.
c. Grind the mint leaves and apply them on acne face. It gives relief.
d. Use of carrot juice daily removes skin dryness.
e. Rubbing teeth with peels of sweet lime removes their filth.

 Balanced diet - a Solution

A balanced diet is one that gives your body the nutrients it needs to function
correctly. To get the proper nutrition from your diet, you should consume the majority
of your daily calories in:
 Fresh Fruits
 Fresh Vegetables
 Whole Grains
 Legumes
 Nuts
 Lean Proteins

Each constituent is necessary on each other for performance. Thus they should be
consumed in a proper way.

Nature provides us all necessary components, but there is lack of good protein
source. That doesn’t mean that a person should consume non vegetarian sources.
Correct combinations can help us achieve correct amount of protein. E.g. cereals,
pulses etc.
 3 white products which are extensively used to prepare junk foods having
health hazards.
There is a growing tendency in modern times to make the articles of diet as artificial
and pleasing to the eye and tasty to the tongue, without any regard to their ultimate
effect on health. This had led to the refining and demineralising of cereals and sugar
and addition of salt to various foodstuffs to make them tasty and delicious.
Fortunately, there is realisation now among the enlightened people that the artificial
and concentrated dietary, to a large extent, is responsible for the vast array of
present day diseases.

Foods such as bread, cereals and sugar are very acid-forming, if eaten in the refined
state as white bread, white sugar and polished rice. But these foods are far less acid-
forming in character if eaten in the natural state as natural brown sugar, whole meal
bread and natural brown rice. Similarly, the excessive use of salt also leads to the
formation of acids in the body.

Of the various artificial foodstuffs being used today for their delicious taste, white
flour, sugar and salt, known as three Ws (white products viz white flour, white sugar
and white salt) have been found especially harmful. They constitute serious health
hazards and their excessive consumption can lead to several degenerative diseases.

 Food combinations
Constitutes of balanced diet should be combined correct proportion

e.g. proteins combined with vegetables on acid fruits are better accepted by body
and digested well also rather than proteins combined with fats./ starches/sweet fruits
give poor results.

There is generally no logical combination of constituents of foods in junk food.

One should eat only uncooked food as far as possible.

Junk foods are overcooked and also require such processes. Procedure of
overcooking kills all the nutrients of food (also proven scientifically)

e.g. vitamin b – a heat labile vitamin is present in rice. Much of it is wasted in

washing procedure of rice and the remaining is destroyed by cooking the rice.

One should eat foods like salads, fruits, sprouted cereals, etc.

Processing also kills nutrients and promote undue and unnecessary increase in
weight. E.g. white sugar, maida, polished rice, etc.

 Benefits of uncooked foods.

1. Consumption of uncooked food gives a feeling of happiness in mind, energy in
body and mental bliss, by achieving physical, mental and spiritual health.
2. It removes toxins accumulated in the body, which is the root cause of all
diseases and thus prevents acute, chronic and fatal diseases.
3. Removes insomnia, induces peaceful, deep and relaxing sleep and there is a
feeling of relaxation and freshness rather than tiredness.
4. Spreads youth, excitement and hope by making arteries, veins and other hard
parts soft and flexible.
5. Promotes digestion of food, its absorption and excretion which takes place in
our body.
6. Brings freshness, promptness, hope and energy in nervous system and
removes its stiffness, tension, burning sensation and stimulation.
7. Increases weight if it is below average and decreases weight if it is above
average.
8. Makes the skin beautiful, glowing, soft and flexible.
9. Keeps one away from feeling too hot in summers or too cold in winters.
10. It is very important for endocrine glands m development and proper flow of
hormones secreted by them.
11. Pacifies unusually increased sexual urge by inner purification in terms of
words, thought and action. Hence there will be no sinful course by religious
persons if they adopt uncooked food.
12. Decreases high BP and increases low BP.
13. Removes acidity created in the body and makes the body alkaline.
14. Rejuvenates deteriorating life force.
15. Cures mental pain, disappointment, restlessness and lack of self confidence
and it gives healthy, congenial and happy life.
16. Removes impotency and premature ejaculation etc., by keeping the male
glands healthy and active.
17. Removes sterility in women and regulates menstrual cycle and makes it
painless.
18. Maintains regular creation and growth of foetus during pregnancy.
19. Induces creative and life giving powers into mother’s milk. The child becomes
very healthy and beautiful, intelligent and promising and gets incomparable
resistance power inside him.
20. Provides best quality pure water mainly found in fruits
and vegetables, because of which we do not require water from outside. When
uncooked food loses this water by coming into contact with fire and becomes
dry and spicy then our need for outside water increases which disturbs the
digestion.
21. Makes you get rid of bad breath and smelly sweat, dirty tongue or foul smelling
stool/faeces.
22. Increases capacity to work manifold.
23. Provides balanced, nutritious and adequate food.
24. Provides healthy element chlorophyll (through green leafy vegetables) and
fibre. By cooking food, these elements get destroyed.
25. Provides vital elements of food vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, phytonutrients,
enzymes, etc. which are very necessary for health and most of them are
destroyed by heating food.
26. Benefits people working in call centres as they have such long and erratic
working hours that most of them become prey to serious diseases.
27. It is very important for people doing mental work (scientists, students, etc.) as
there is no laziness and mind works more.
28. It maintains the genes and avoids cancer.
29. It gives pleasure of various tastes, which gets limited (sweet, sour and salty) in
cooked food.
30. Strengthens resistance power of a person by which he remains safe even from
contagious diseases.
 FOOD PRODUCTS CAUSING DISEASES.
Soft drinks — According to a report presented sometimes ago, soft drinks contain 40
to 72 mgm intoxicating elements, glycerine, alcohol, eastergum, citric acid and
glycerol from animals.

If you put any soft drink in the toilet for an hour, it will clean it like phenyl does. If a
rusted spot is rubbed with a cloth soaked in a soft drink it will get cleaned. It takes
many years for mud to dissolve teeth and bones, but leave them in soft drinks for 10
days and see the devastation.

By drinking such harmful drinks we are only collecting chemicals which damage the
liver, intestines, etc.

Maida — While preparing maida natural salts, vitamins, roughage, etc. is destroyed
and only low quality starch remains. Maida sticks in the intestines and causes
constipation and fermentation leading to complications. Many diseases are caused
naturally.

Preserved food — These contain a chemical preservative which the body has to eject
out, straining unnecessarily the body and kidneys.

Fast foods and Chinese food—They contain ajinomoto or monosodium glutamate

which gradually accumulates and creates toxicity, leading to diseases like cancer.

 INSTANCES
Diet is now considered a major factor in prevention and treatment of cancer.
According to the American National Cancer Institute, about one-third of all types of
cancers are linked to diet. Thus, right choice of foods can help prevent a majority of
new cancer cases and deaths from cancer. Cancer usually develops over a long
period. Latest researches show that what one eats may interfere with cancer
development process at various stages, from conception to growth and spread of the
cancer. Foods can block the chemical activation, which normally initiates cancer.
Antioxidants, including vitamins, can eradicate carcinogens and can even repair
some of the cellular damage caused by them. Cancers that are in the process of
growth can also be prevented from further spreading by judicial selection of foods.
Even in advanced cases, the right foods can prolong the patient’s life.

It is mentioned in Ayurveda that all those causes which disturb the ‘Vata’ in a person
leads to the development of insomnia also bad food habits and bad lifestyle which
lead to the disturbance of ‘Vata’ and ‘Pitta’ also cause insomnia
 B

FEEDBACK
It was the "Divine Will" only that we were made to see the advertisement in the newspaper
regarding beginning of a one year Diploma course in Holistic Living. Then came the
Orientation Programme which was like an 'Icing on the cake' to give direction to our spiritual
deSires. The introductory class which included budding lectures by our Revered Gurus, Sh.
Dilip Badkar Sir, Sh. Indrrajeet Kashyap Sir, Dr. Rajeev Rastogi Sir, and Sh. Kundan Kumar
Sir, which gradually blossomed into a beautiful bouquet of flowers in the whole year.
Contribution in terms of knowledge was also made by our other Revered Gurus during the
year, Dr. Romesh Puri Sir, the Mudra Shastra Guru and Mr. Jatin, the yoga expert.

Sh. Dilip Badkar Sir, a calm and composed guru, truly of this subject enlightened us on the
various aspects of spiritualism and gave us direction on how to live a meaningful life. It was
him only who opened our minds and changed our perception towards life by imbibing values
such as whatever happens in our life is Divine Will, to always be positive in life, accept what
life has in store for us and last but not the least that it is our Karmas only that are
determinative of each and every aspect of our life. Our spiritual quest was very well
answered in his sessions.

Dr. Romesh Puri Sir shared his deep knowledge of 'Mudra Therapy', which opened our eyes
that diseases can also be cured without medicines by way of Mudras. We were unaware of
this fact, before joining the said course.

Dr. Rajeev Rastogi Sir also did full justice to his subject of Naturopathy by imparting us
knowledge that food is indeed the medicine and also it is the only system of medicine which
provides Holistic Health, that is, heals the mind, body and soul. We were also made to visit
the Naturopathy Hospital at Gohana where we got the practical exposure which indeed
helped us in understanding the subject more precisely.

Sh. Indrrajeet Kashyap Sir, with a great command over his subjects, that is, Vaastu Shastra,
Numerology, Astrology, Hypnotism, & Palmistry and his unique way of teaching, glued us to
his classes and created all the more interest in the subjects. He prepared us with the basic
knowledge of all the above mentioned subjects in a short duration. Further, the question-
answer session and vivas in his class made us thorough in what was taught, which
otherwise would not have been possible. He cleared all the myths on the above topics and
also threw light on the true values of life, thus ensuring our overall development.

Yogacharya Sh. Kundan Kumar Sir's contribution in our spiritual journey needs a special
mention. He truly explained us the meaning of Yoga and that it is not just Yogasanas and
Pranayamas but it is the path of union of oneself with God. He emphasised on the teachings
of Lord Krishna from the most authentic source, that is, "The Holy Bhagvad Gita". He took us
back to the era of "Sone ki Chidiya" for which our nation "Bharat" is worldwide known, with
respect to, it's treasures in terms of Holistic knowledge. We were fortunate enough that with
his teachings we were able to visualise the times, when such values were a part of each
individual, which nowadays are gradually being forgotten.

We would also like to offer our thanks to Mr. Jatin for the yogasanas which we were made to
practice in this session.

Our special thanks to all the members of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan team including Mr.
Shankar and Mr. Kamal for their commendable efforts in making this course a success.

We also offer our gratitude to the spiritual family, for which we were a part of, during the
course and thus contributing in making our spiritual journey a memorable one.
C1

Meenakshi Balani
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de¨Za कवा लरखवा जजोखवा हह, जब तक समझ यह पवायवा मन

उड़तर पपंछत सवा घछूम रहवा, छछूनर bPNkv¨a कवा गगन A

एक bPNk पछूरत हहई नहत कक दछूसरत पहलर जवाग जवातत हह

कह सत यह मवायवा हह, जजो खखद मम हमम समवातत हह A
|U;okn उन xq:v¨a कवा ftUg¨aus हमकजो Kku fn;k
इस एक सवाल मम हमकजो जतनर कवा मकसद fl[kk fn;k A

सPचवाई कर पथ पर चलनवा, अपनर सर बड़र कवा आदर करनवा

यह xwड रहL; हम पर उजवागर कhयवा A
मवाम बवाप कक fu%LokFkZ सरववा और भवाई बहन सर I;kj करनवा
सब rhFk¨Za सर यह बढ़कर हह, यहत हह मवानवतवा कवा गहनवा A
lkfRod भजोजन x`g.k कर, LoLFk ru कवा fuekZ.k करजो
छजोड़ दजो जतवव कक gR;k और ÁHkq कवा ?;ku करजो A

bZ'oj कर पथ पर चलनर कक lPPkh रवाह fn[kkbZ हह

अपनर vUreZu कक सखनजो, यहत जतवन कक गहरवाई हह A

fdlh कवा भत fny नवा दखखर अपनर de®Za पर ?;ku करजो

 कख छ भत जतवन मम अकवारण नहत हजोतवा, यह बवात सदवा Lohdkj करजो A

भगववान सर यहत ÁkFkZuk हह, सब गखरुओपं कवा हम पर vk'khZokn रहर

जजो एक सवाल मम सतखवा हमनर, वह जतवन मम हम अमल करम A
 C2

SKETCH
Meenakshi Balani