Mahavirnu Aarogya Shastra

The book "Mahavirnu Aarogya Shastra" (Mahavir's Science of Health) by Acharya Mahapragna, published by Anekant Bharati Prakashan, presents a unique perspective on health and well-being, drawing deeply from the teachings of Lord Mahavir. The book argues that while Lord Mahavir didn't delve into the quantitative nutritional needs of the body like modern scientists, he provided two fundamental principles for health: hitaahar (beneficial diet) and mitahar (moderate eating). Adhering to these principles leads to a healthy life, where one becomes their own healer.

The text emphasizes that health is not solely a physical matter but is intrinsically linked to the spiritual and mental well-being. It highlights that factors like attachment (raag), aversion (dwesh), delusion (moh), anger, pride, deceit, greed, fear, sorrow, and lust are detrimental not only to the mind but also to the body, making them diseased. The true basis of health lies in addressing these internal afflictions.

The book explores the interconnectedness of various aspects of existence and their impact on health, including:

• Existence and Health: It posits that health is not just physical but encompasses seven components: body, senses, breath, life force (prana), mind, emotions (bhava), and speech. A disruption in any of these can affect overall well-being.
• Mind, Consciousness (Chitta), and Health: It differentiates between mind (man) and consciousness (chitta), emphasizing that the purity of consciousness is paramount for health. Mental disturbances like attachment, aversion, and delusion directly impact physical health.
• Emotions (Bhava) and Health: Emotions are presented as the fundamental drivers of mental and physical states. Pure emotions lead to health, while negative ones lead to disease.
• Life Force (Prana) and Health: It explains the crucial role of prana, the life force, in sustaining the body and mind. Imbalances in prana can lead to various ailments.
• Breath and Health: Breath is highlighted as a vital element that influences the entire being, from the physical body to the mental and emotional states. Practices like controlled breathing are beneficial.
• Karma and Health: The text connects health and illness to the principles of karma, suggesting that karmic dispositions can manifest as physical and mental diseases.
• Lifestyle and Health: It outlines nine causes of disease, including excessive or improper eating, excessive sleep or wakefulness, suppression of bodily urges, strenuous travel, and sensory indulgence. Controlling these aspects through self-discipline and moderation is crucial for health.
• Yoga, Meditation, and Health: The book discusses the role of various yogic practices like yogasanas, kayotsarg (a practice of body awareness and relaxation), and specific meditations like Preksha Meditation and Leshyadhyana in promoting physical, mental, and emotional health.
• Diet and Health: It advocates for hitahar and mitahar as fundamental principles, urging moderation in diet and avoidance of harmful substances. Fasting (anashan) is presented as a powerful tool for detoxification and rejuvenation.
• The Concept of Leshyas (Auras) and Health: The text connects colors (leshyas) to emotions and states of being, suggesting that pure emotions create vibrant auras and contribute to health, while negative emotions lead to dull or corrupted auras, impacting well-being.

Ultimately, "Mahavirnu Aarogya Shastra" presents a holistic approach to health, emphasizing that true well-being arises from a harmonious integration of physical discipline, mental clarity, emotional purity, and spiritual awareness, all rooted in the profound wisdom of Lord Mahavir. The book suggests that by understanding and practicing these principles, individuals can achieve not only physical health but also mental peace and spiritual growth.