Swasthya Par Dharm Ka Prabhav - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Swasthya par Dharm ka Prabhav" (The Influence of Religion on Health) by Mahapragna Acharya, based on the provided pages:

The text, authored by the learned philosopher, scholar, and experienced practitioner of Preksha Dhyana and Yoga, Acharya Mahapragna, delves into the profound connection between religion and health. It argues that true health is not merely physical but a holistic integration of the body, mind, and emotions.

The Superiority of Man and the Foundation of Health:

Humanity's Unique Attribute: Man is considered the best of creatures due to his highly developed nervous system, complex brain structure, and strong spinal cord. The bone structure, in particular, is highlighted not just as a frame but as a foundation for mental control and concentration.
Etymology of "Swasth" (Healthy): The text presents two etymologies for "swasth." The first, more profound meaning, is "one whose bones are good" (सुष्ठ अस्थि यस्य स स्वस्थः), emphasizing the physical basis of health. The second, also significant, is "one who resides in oneself" (स्वास्मिन् तिष्ठति इति स्वस्थ), pointing towards inner stability.
The Embodiment of Sanskaras: It is stated that human sanskaras (tendencies, imprints) are embedded within the bones and bone marrow, influencing thought, behavior, and conduct.

The Holistic Nature of Health:

Beyond the Physical: Health is defined as a balanced and harmonious integration of the body, mind, and emotions. Focusing solely on nutritional intake for physical health is considered incomplete, as the body is a composite.
The Mind-Body Connection: A healthy mind is paramount for a healthy body. The text acknowledges that if the mind is unhealthy, the body cannot be. It cites Ayurvedic wisdom that diseases are both physical and mental, and modern science increasingly recognizes psychosomatic illnesses where the mind plays a crucial role.
Psychosomatic Illnesses: While physical ailments can often be treated with medicine, psychosomatic diseases require a change in mental states and emotions for effective treatment.

The Power of Emotions and their Impact on Health:

Purity of Emotions as the Root: The core source of health is the purity of emotions. Our entire life is driven by emotional currents, which affect the mind, which in turn affects the body.
Negative Emotions as Disease Invaders: Negative emotions are identified as inviting diseases.
- Anger (क्रोध): This negative emotion can trigger numerous diseases, especially high blood pressure and heart conditions.
- Greed (लोभ): Greed can lead to loss of appetite and digestive weakness (अग्निमांद्य).
Scientific Validation: The text notes that Ayurvedic texts elaborate on diseases arising from emotions, and modern scientists are also increasingly exploring this connection.

Five Pillars of Health:

The text outlines five key indicators of health:

Balance of Bodily Elements and Chemicals: Achieved through a balanced diet.
Balance of Prana (Life Force): Influenced by various factors.
Happiness of the Senses: A state of sensory well-being.
Happiness of the Mind: Mental contentment and peace.
Happiness of Emotions: Emotional well-being and purity.

The Role of Religious Principles in Achieving Health:

Dietary Restraint (आहार संयम): This is presented as a form of penance and a religious practice. The text warns that excessive consumption of cholesterol-raising foods, salt, and refined sugar leads to heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney problems, acidity, and diabetes, respectively. The practice of "Asvad" (abstinence from taste) is highlighted as essential.
Mental Control (मन का संयम): While mental dynamism is necessary for life, excessive restlessness negatively impacts health. Reducing mental agitation is not just about mental peace but also about physical health. Mental concentration is identified as an internal element of religion and a vital component of health.
The Three Pillars of Health:
- Controlled Diet (आहारसंयम): As discussed above.
- Controlled Sleep (निद्रासंयम): Excessive sleep is detrimental. Daytime sleep should be minimal (around half an hour), and nighttime sleep should be adequate for one's age (five to seven hours).
- Celibacy (ब्रह्मचर्य): The text emphasizes restraint in sexual activity. Citing Socrates, it suggests a single act in a lifetime, or at least once a year or once a month, implying moderation and control.
Awareness (जागरूकता): This is presented as an important aspect of religion, linked to controlled habits.

The Essence of Religion and its Indirect Impact on Health:

True Religion vs. Sectarianism: The author laments that the worship of sects often overshadows the worship of true religion. Religious principles, the author argues, are universal and not bound by time or place.
The Benefits of Austerity: Practicing renunciation (त्याग) and austerity (तपस्या) can mitigate sectarianism and improve health.
Weakening Factors of Health: The text acknowledges various health detriments, including:
- External injuries.
- Infectious diseases.
- Diseases arising from past karma (कर्मज).
- Excessive restlessness of the body, speech, and mind.
- Rapid breathing.
- Uncontrolled diet and indulgence.
- Negative emotions.
Impact on Immunity: These factors disrupt the body's disease-preventing capacity and self-defense system, creating an environment for diseases to flourish.
The Direct and Indirect Goals of Religious Practice:
- Direct: Purity of emotions, mental concentration, and self-realization.
- Indirect: Strengthening of Prana (life force). When Prana is strong, health naturally flows.

The True Radiance of the Self:

The text concludes with a quote from "Jnansara" which emphasizes that fulfillment derived from external objects is like borrowed ornaments. True fulfillment, like the inherent brilliance of a gem, comes from one's own inner spiritual state and emotions. This innate inner radiance is the true form of completeness.