S.M. Jain
Yoga is a great ancient science of Indian origin and has spread far and wide, in all continents because of its proven beneficial effects. The dedicated Indian yoga teachers by their ardent efforts and meticulous teaching techniques have popularised yoga in every strata of society irrespective of caste and creed. The popularity is increasing as more and more people are getting aware of the benefits of yoga in curing mental and body ailments and ensuring peace and harmony.
In this hook "Essence and Substance of Yoga" Shri S.M.Jain has presented yoga, in totality, in all its aspects, articulations and ramifications. While describing the important salient features of main streams and systems of yoga he has analysed the concepts and practices logically, rationally and objectively. His style is brief, lucid and comprehensive. He has quoted extensively from authentic canonical scriptures and has pointed out boldly even the contradictions and aberrations which do not stand scientific scrutiny.
With passage of time this great science also got adulterated with superstitions and noumena. Shri Jain painfully points out that many yoga teachers, though swear by name of Patanjali, yet do not follow his prescribed, scientifically and systematically devised sequential eight steps. Yama and Niyama are first two foundation steps of foremost importance. Many yoga teachers generally ignore these and jump directly to third step Asana (Posture), fourth step Pranayama (Breathing technique) and even to seventh step Dhyan (Meditation), leaving the fifth step Pratyahar (Abstinence) which is also very important. There are dilutions, relaxations and alterations galore under the impact of commercialisation of yoga.
Shri Jain also describes yoga in its wider cosmic perspective. The word "Yoga" is from the root "Yuj" which means "Union". Union is a cosmic phenomenon as every constituent of universe manifests as union of its parts, from atoms to galaxies, from smallest microbes to biggest life-forms, all interlinked and interrelated with intrinsic interdependence. This is the basis of chapter on "Ideal Yoga" which emphasises equality, co-operation and concern for all animate and inanimate" constituents of environment. This alone can ensure lasting peace, happiness and harmony for one and all.
The book will be useful for yoga aspirants and also for people in general to understand the basics of yoga, its origin, objectives, concepts, practices and articulations under main streams of yoga and their branches.
Dr. Kiran Bedi
Indian Police Service
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