Prekshadhyana Yogik Kriyao

This book, Prekshadhyana Yogik Kriyao (Prekshadhyana Yogic Practices), authored by Mahapragna Acharya (though the initial pages list Muni Kishanlal as the author of the Gujarati translation and the book itself, it is published under the guidance of Mahapragna Acharya), published by Anekant Bharati Prakashan, is a comprehensive guide to performing yogic physical exercises as part of the Prekshadhyana system.

The core purpose of Prekshadhyana, as explained in the book, is to achieve overall well-being, encompassing both spiritual development and physical health. It aims to purify the mind, pacify negative emotions, and promote mental peace through practices like asanas, pranayama, relaxation techniques, and meditation. The book specifically focuses on the physical aspects, providing a set of systematic yogic exercises designed to make the body active and energetic in a short period.

Here's a breakdown of the book's content:

Key Themes and Concepts:

• Prekshadhyana as a Holistic Practice: The book emphasizes that Prekshadhyana is not just about mental or spiritual practices but also involves physical well-being as a foundation for deeper sadhana.
• Relevance in the Modern Era: The author highlights the challenges of the modern lifestyle – lack of time, space, and connection with nature – and presents these yogic kriyas as accessible and practical solutions that can be done by anyone, regardless of age or physical condition.
• Accessibility and Simplicity: The exercises are described as simple, easy to perform, and requiring minimal time and effort, making them suitable for everyone.
• Mind-Body Connection: The exercises are designed to activate and strengthen each part of the body, contributing to both physical health and mental clarity, which are essential for spiritual growth.
• Spinal Health: Special emphasis is placed on the importance of a healthy, flexible, and active spine (Merudand) for overall well-being, concentration, and the flow of vital energy.

Structure of the Book:

The book is structured to guide the reader through a series of yogic exercises, starting from the head and progressing down to the feet, followed by specific practices for the spine, stomach, and breath.

Main Sections and Exercises:

1. Prakshakiya (Foreword) and Sampadakiya (Editorial): These sections introduce the book, its purpose, the philosophy of Prekshadhyana, and acknowledge the contributors.
2. Swakthya (Author's Note): The author, Muni Kishanlal, explains the scientific and systematic approach of Prekshadhyana, integrating ancient knowledge with modern findings. He stresses the necessity of a healthy body for effective sadhana and highlights the benefits of the specific kriyas for activating various body parts.
3. Yogik Sharirik Kriyao - Vartman Yug ke Sandarbh Mein (Yogic Physical Practices - In the Context of the Present Era): This section sets the stage, explaining the challenges of modern life and how these exercises provide a solution.
4. Kriyaon ka Prabhav (Impact of the Practices): This section details the benefits of the kriyas, stating they lead to physical and mental well-being, increased flexibility, better circulation, and the manifestation of inner intelligence.
5. Yogik Sharirik Kriyaon ki Pravidhi (Methodology of Yogic Physical Practices): This outlines the general approach, emphasizing the need for a clean, airy space and the possibility of performing the exercises in parts if time is limited. The total duration is around fifteen minutes.

The Yogic Kriyas are categorized and described in detail with accompanying illustrations:

• Arhant-Vandan (Salutation to the Arhant): A preparatory prayer or posture to honor one's inner divine self.

• Thirteen Specific Kriyas for Body Parts:

  • First Kriya - Mastak (Head): Focuses on activating the brain muscles, removing defects, and improving memory and brain power.
  • Second Kriya - Aankh (Eyes): A detailed set of eye exercises to improve vision, prevent eye diseases, and enhance visual acuity.
  • Third Kriya - Kan (Ears): Practices for ear health, improving hearing, removing laziness, and awakening intelligence.
  • Fourth Kriya - Munh tatha Swaryantra (Mouth and Vocal Cords): Exercises for facial health, dental hygiene, and voice improvement.
  • Fifth Kriya - Gardan (Neck): A series of movements to relieve neck pain, improve eye and brain power.
  • Sixth Kriya - Khandha (Shoulders): Exercises to increase shoulder strength and relieve joint pain.
  • Seventh Kriya - Haath (Hands): Practices to strengthen hands and fingers, improve wrist flexibility, and enhance overall arm strength.
  • Eighth Kriya - Chhati aur Phephade (Chest and Lungs): Exercises to strengthen the chest and lungs.
  • Ninth Kriya - Pet (Stomach): A practice to strengthen abdominal muscles and address digestive issues.
  • Tenth Kriya - Kamar (Waist/Lower Back): Movements to alleviate lower back pain.
  • Eleventh Kriya - Pair (Feet): Exercises for heel and foot health.
  • Twelfth Kriya - Ghutna evam Panja (Knees and Feet): A comprehensive set of exercises for knees, shins, ankles, and toes to improve flexibility and remove pain.
  • Thirteenth Kriya - Kayotsarg (Self-Relaxation): A practice of deep relaxation and body awareness.

• Swaavbhav Sudhar ke liye Merudand ki Kriyao (Spinal Practices for Character Improvement): This section emphasizes the spine's crucial role in physical health, mental clarity, and character development. It includes:

  • Eight specific kriyas for the spine, described with precise postures and movements aimed at improving flexibility, strength, and energy flow.
  • Kayotsarg ki Mudra (Posture for Kayotsarg): Detailed instructions for achieving a state of complete relaxation.

• Pet aur Shwas ki Kriyao (Stomach and Breath Practices): This section focuses on proper breathing techniques and abdominal exercises for improved digestion, respiratory health, and overall vitality. It includes:

  • Ten specific practices for the stomach and breath, designed to teach correct breathing patterns and strengthen the abdominal region.
  • Samayak Shwas ki Avashyakta (Necessity of Proper Breathing): Explains the importance of diaphragmatic breathing.

• Sankalp Sutra (Affirmation): A concluding section with powerful affirmations to be chanted to reinforce the positive effects of the practices and set intentions for spiritual growth.

Overall, "Prekshadhyana Yogik Kriyao" serves as a practical manual for individuals seeking to improve their physical health and create a strong foundation for spiritual sadhana through accessible and effective yogic exercises within the Prekshadhyana framework.