3rd IMPC Lecture: Asana & Pranayam, Body Postures & Control of Breath @ HereNow4U

International Preksha Meditation Camp

1. Objectives

Prepare the body for spiritual practice
Obtain holistic health
Revitalize all the systems of body

2. Spiritual Basis

Initial step to begin inner journey
To sit stable and comfortable so that mind can be focused
A cleansing process of body, mind, pran and thoughts
A process of self purification - Nirjara
To tolerate uncomfortable situations

3. Differences between Asana and Aerobics

Asana

Gentle, slow movement

With long breathing

Effects the inner hormones

Sustain the postures

Spiritual oriented

Develops stamina & tolerance

Massage of inner organs

Physical, mental, emotional health

Aerobics

Fast movement

No attention on breath

Muscular effect

Quick change

Health oriented

Develops the growth of muscles

No such process

Physical health

4. Scientific Basis

Each cell of body is supplied enough oxygen and blood
Great effect on cardiovascular functions
Eliminates toxin and waste elements produced by body
Rejuvenates all the systems
Flexibility of muscles helps to stay away from diseases
Less prone to psychosomatic ailments

5. Benefits

Fitness of body
Breath becomes longer and deeper
Strengthens immune system
Makes a person vigilant and young
Cools down hot temper
Stretching and relaxing of muscles cures body aches and pains
Mind is disciplined and concentrated

6. The Process

Position - Relax and stable
Movement - Slow and consciously come to postures and sustain it for a while without force
Breathing - long, slow according to postures
Attention - Mind should be aware of each posture
Relax - Relax the muscles in between the asanas

7. Spiritual Basis of Pranayam

Expansion, development and control of vital energy
Ida, Pingala and Sushumna
The principle of Swarodaya
A bridge between non physical [soul] and physical [ body]
Balances vital energy through out the body

8. Scientific Basis

Connected to sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system
Healing technique

9. Benefits

Vital energy removes the blockage inside the nerves
Purak - Inhalation gives energy to body
Rechak - Exhalation cures the abdominal ailments
Kumbhak - Holding the breath awakens the inherent potentials
Controls breath rate
Mind becomes stable and focused
Divine powers and intuition power is explored
Experience of mental peace

10. Practices of Pranayam

Surya bhedi - Inhale and exhale from right nostril
Chandra bhedi - Inhale and exhale from left nostril
Anulom - vilom - Alternate nostril breathing
Bhastrika - Exhalation with force

Samani Charitra Pragya's lectures held during 3rd IPMC: