Aasan Pranayam Mudra Bandh

This document is a comprehensive guide to Yoga Asanas, Pranayama, and Mudras, authored by Swami Satyanand Sarasvati and published by Bihar Yog Vidyalay. The book compiles discourses given during yoga teacher training sessions and sannyasa training at the Bihar School of Yoga from 1967-1968 and 1970-1973.

Key aspects covered in the book include:

• Asanas (Postures):

  • A detailed introduction to Asanas, emphasizing their role in achieving a stable, comfortable, and meditative state, as described in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras ("Sthiram Sukham Asanam").
  • A clear distinction between Asanas and strenuous physical exercises, highlighting that Asanas are designed for holistic development (physical, mental, and spiritual) rather than just muscle building.
  • A classification of Asanas into three groups: Preliminary (for beginners, weak, or ill individuals), Intermediate (requiring more stability and breath integration), and Advanced (for proficient practitioners).
  • A further categorization of Asanas based on movement: Dynamic (involving body movement) and Static (holding a posture for a duration).
  • Extensive coverage of various Asanas, categorized by the part of the body they focus on or their action (e.g., standing Asanas, backward bending Asanas, forward bending Asanas, spinal twisting Asanas, headstand and shoulderstand variations, balancing Asanas, advanced Asanas).
  • Detailed instructions on how to perform each Asana, including breathing techniques, concentration points, and benefits.
  • Specific sections are dedicated to preparatory practices before meditation, Asanas for meditation, and Asanas for specific groups like children, the elderly, and those recovering from illness.

• Pranayama (Breathing Techniques):

  • A theoretical explanation of Pranayama, its connection to Prana (life force), and the importance of breath control for physical and mental well-being.
  • The concept of Pancha Prana (five vital energies) and their control through various breathing exercises.
  • The relationship between breath rate and longevity, citing observations from ancient yogis and comparative animal studies.
  • The principles of Swara Yoga (study of breath patterns) and its application in predicting future events and understanding mental states.
  • Detailed instructions for various Pranayama techniques like Nadi Shodhana, Sheetali, Sheetkari, Bhramari, Bhastrika, Kapalbhati, Ujjayi, Surya Bhedi, and Moorcha Pranayama.
  • Guidance on the progression of Pranayama practice, including different stages of Kumbhaka (breath retention).

• Mudras (Psychic Gestures):

  • An introduction to Mudras, explaining their significance in channeling and directing Pranic energy for spiritual awakening and mind control.
  • The book details various Mudras such as Gyan Mudra, Chin Mudra, Shambhavi Mudra, Nasikagra Drishti, Manduki Mudra, Bhuchari Mudra, Akashli Mudra, Tadagi Mudra, Bhujangini Mudra, Kaki Mudra, Ashwini Mudra, Khechari Mudra, Yoga Mudra, and Prana Mudra.
  • Each Mudra is explained with its technique, benefits, and appropriate concentration points.

• Bandhas (Energy Locks):

  • An explanation of Bandhas as techniques to lock and direct Prana within the body, leading to energy conservation and spiritual advancement.
  • Detailed descriptions of Jalandhar Bandha, Moola Bandha, Uddiyana Bandha, and Maha Bandha, including their application during Pranayama and their specific effects on the body and mind.

• Shatkarmas (Cleansing Techniques):

  • A section dedicated to the six yogic cleansing processes (Shatkarmas) that purify the body and prepare it for higher yogic practices.
  • These include Neti (nasal cleansing - Jal Neti and Sutra Neti), Dhauti (alimentary canal cleansing - Dant Dhauti, Jivha Dhauti, Karna Dhauti, Kapalrandhra Dhauti, Chakkhu Dhauti, Varisar Dhauti/Shankha Prakshalan, Vaman Dhauti/Kunjal Kriya, Vyaghra Kriya), Nauli (abdominal massage), Basti (enema - Jal Basti and Sthal Basti), Kapalbhati (frontal lobe cleansing), and Trataka (gazing).
  • Detailed instructions and precautions are provided for each technique.

• Internal Anatomy and Physiology:

  • The book also includes chapters on Human Internal Anatomy, including the Endocrine Gland System, Digestive System, Respiratory System, and Circulatory System.
  • It explains the function of various glands and their impact on physical and mental health, further correlating these with yogic practices.

• Yogic Practices for Specific Conditions:

  • A comprehensive section on "Yoga for Diseases" provides guidance on how yoga can be used to manage and alleviate various physical and mental ailments.

• Practice Schedules:

  • The book concludes with suggested practice routines tailored for different needs, such as for health improvement, for the weak and elderly, for beginners (short and detailed programs), and for advanced practitioners. It also offers specific programs for children and those seeking to enhance concentration.

The catalog link provided (jainqq.org) suggests that this text is a part of a larger collection or library related to Jainism, though the content itself is primarily focused on Hatha Yoga practices as taught by Swami Satyanand Sarasvati. The book emphasizes a gradual and systematic approach to yogic practice, advocating for guidance from qualified instructors, especially for advanced techniques.