Topic 6.01.06 A Clean and Pure System

Topic 6.01.06 A Clean and Pure System. VERSION CONTROL: 1 August 2017

There are movements and actions known as kriyas, postures which are held, called asanas, locks and seals, bandhas and mudras. These give both constitutional strength and relaxation to the body. By squeezing the body tissues like a sponge, and by directing the blood and flow of attention and energy specifically to certain parts, they help wash the toxins (impurities) out of the joints, cavities and organs. The result is a clean and pure system. Asanas also act on much deeper levels, bringing about significant benefits over a longer period of time.

The physical practices open up the body. The physique becomes strong and elastic, long and stretched, without being muscle-bound, and the body frees itself from toxicity and disease. The limbs of the body provide the necessary weights and counter-weights to bring steadiness and in turn experience health. Lightness of limb arises from a combination of perfect geometry and architecture, where everything works together in harmony – symmetrical, vital, strong, graceful, tender and beautiful.

As the body begins to be restored to health and youth by the removal of toxicity and the mind trained through deep relaxation, yoga nidra, the breathing practices, pranayama can come to the forefront to further restore health, working with the life-force energy. The practices rebalance the autonomic nervous system and strengthen the entire central nervous system, leading to increased self-confidence and mastery of the mind. Through greater control of prana, we gain greater control of ourselves.

In addition to the other benefits and effects, the physical practices of Yoga have been evolved over centuries so as to awaken an energy that is not ordinarily available, and to exercise every muscle, nerve, gland in the body in its preparation.

The mechanical body and the mind-body store the memories, hopes, aspirations and dreams that we call home for the ‘time-being’. In many ways, the body is the sub-conscious mind. To release the mind-body, or in other words, allow the subconscious mind to reprogram itself, ShantiYoga is not just about ‘mastering an asana’, it’s also about being a student of yourself.