Baccho Ke Liye Dhyan Yoga Ka Shikshan

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "बच्चों के लिये ध्यान योग का शिक्षण" (Teaching of Meditation Yoga for Children) by Swami Shankar Devanand Saraswati:

This text, originally published in the English magazine "Yoga" by the Bihar School of Yoga, advocates for the integration of meditation and yoga into educational practices for children. The author, Swami Shankar Devanand Saraswati, argues that current educational methods are too narrowly focused on the left hemisphere of the brain, emphasizing analytical, linear, and scientific subjects (writing, math) while neglecting the right hemisphere's focus on imagination, art, dance, and creative talents. This one-sided approach, he contends, leads to incomplete knowledge and potentially unengaging learning experiences.

The core of the argument revolves around the integration of both hemispheres of the brain. The author highlights that scientific research is increasingly recognizing the importance of this integration. He references studies suggesting that practices like Kriya Yoga can lead to brain integration, fostering internal energy, creativity, and a deeper understanding of the world.

The text draws parallels between the yogic concept of awakening the Sushumna Nadi (the central energy channel in yoga) and the process of brain hemisphere integration. The left hemisphere is associated with the Pingala Nadi (right side of the body, external, analytical), while the right hemisphere is linked to the Ida Nadi (left side of the body, internal, intuitive).

Key benefits of integrating yoga and meditation into education are discussed:

• Enhanced Learning: The author cites research by Georgi Lozanov and Dr. Don Schuster, which shows that methods akin to Yogic Nidra (yogic sleep) or hypnosis can significantly accelerate learning. Students have been able to complete year-long courses in half the time, demonstrating improved imagination, dream recall, and psychophysiological development. This "transpersonal psychology" approach is considered highly effective.
• Holistic Development: Beyond academic improvement, meditation and yoga are presented as crucial for developing creativity, intuition, and a deeper understanding of one's inner self and the world. This leads to a more integrated perspective and the ability to harmonize various elements in one's environment.
• Improved Cognitive Functions: Practices like relaxation are shown to improve concentration, memory, and intelligence. The author cites research by psychologist Halem, who found significant positive changes in students' awareness, concentration, and memory after incorporating a ten-minute relaxation exercise.
• Personal Growth and Well-being: Yoga education aims to create not just intellectually and professionally capable individuals, but also "good human beings." It provides a balance between the dual aspects of human nature – mind and brain, internal and external, right and left, imagination and logic – helping individuals set ideal life goals and navigate life's challenges.
• Addressing Shortcomings of Modern Education: The author suggests that traditional education has been limited to intellectual and vocational training, often leaving the development of character and moral values to guardians and religious institutions. Yoga education can fill this gap, fostering positive personal transformation and accelerating the learning process.

The text also includes a brief philosophical reflection on the power of the Panch Parmeshthi Mantra, emphasizing its eternal nature and the importance of chanting for purity of mind, cautioning against chanting solely for material gain.

In essence, the book champions a shift in educational paradigms, moving towards a more holistic and integrated approach that leverages the power of meditation and yoga to unlock children's full potential, fostering both intellectual prowess and inner well-being.