For a healthy mind & body
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According
to ayurveda and yoga, both mind and the body are made up of five elements, the
Panchabhutas of earth (prithvi), water (jal), fire (agni or tej), air (vayu) and
ether or space (akash). While the body is made up of the heavier elements of
earth and water (the kapha type), it functions through the lighter elements of
fire (pitta or fire type) and air (vata or vital energy type). The pitta, fire
or heat of the body controls all digestive processes and the vata, air or vital
energy lends its spark to the nervous system. The mind, one of subtlest parts of
our being is composed of air and ether, the lightest elements.
In substance our minds
resemble ether formless and all pervading and in motion, it resembles
air-penetrating, constantly in flux. Just as the right type of food and right
amount of food is necessary for a healthy digestive system, the right type of
thoughts and the right amount of thoughts are essential for a healthy mind.
Therefore, the simple formula
for a healthy mind is allowing only positive thoughts to come, having just
enough thoughts in the mind, and finally, being without any thoughts for at
least some time, that is, meditating. Meditation is not only extremely conducive
to mental well being and peace; it is also the first step towards self
transformation and spirituality.
Posture:
Sit erect in a comfortable
position preferably on the floor. The important factor is keeping the spine
absolutely straight.
Environment:
Sit in a well ventilated place
that is quiet and receives natural light. Set up a meditating room with soothing
music and aroma in order to infuse the atmosphere with spiritual energy.
Time:
Meditate at the same time
daily, twice a day for best results. Beginners are recommended to meditate for
about half an hour daily.
Attitude
& Technique:
Be a
receptive observer while meditating. Try to observe the mind, the breath or the
immediate physical environment without thinking anything in particular, watching
the mind slowly empty itself out.
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