Jain Studies and Science

SR No.: 006923
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Mahaveer Raj Gelada
Publisher: Jain Vishva Bharati
Publication Year: 2007
Total Pages: 272
Language: English
Classification: Book_English
File Size: 6 MB

Page 193

PREKSIA MEDITATION, THERAPY AND CURES 18!
1.2.1. Effects of Sun-light
For Jains, traditionally, the body cycles are linked to the sun. But, medical practitioners, too, have established a strong link between bio-clock and the sun. Famous physician Dr. Steevak has established that the sun light supplements our diet. We cannot survive solely on the food in the absence of the sun-light.
In an experiment. Michael and his team conducted some experiments on rats io establishi link between goed and the importance of sun-light. In first set of experiment, cighteen rats were given lew nutrition diet devoid of calcium and phosphorous. la addition, the cre kept in dark room. In a few days, they all became weak and fell ill. Then, thout changing their diet, they were exposed to sun. The rats quickly recovered within a couple of days and regained their strength. In the second set of experiment, the rats were again confined to dark rooms, were fed the same low nutrien diet, but the food was exposed to sun for a !ew hours before being consumed by the rats. The rats exhibited no signs of weakness and remained healthy The obvious conclusion was - sun not only strengthened the digestion in the first experiment, but supplemented the dict as in second experiment.
1.2.2. Atapna
Jains have been conducung such experiments for centuries. They call it atapnu. Jain ascetics used to expose themselves to the sun light for hours and retrained from food for days together. This act is called atupna. During this practice, they experienced little hunger as their food needs were fulfilled by the light of su. Though it was act of penance, its efficacy in preventing the hunger Mas etv liell known to the Jain monks. In this kind of practice, they discovered the hidden strengths of their inicro-bxies, particularly the tejus.
1.2.3. Food Intake after Sunset
A videly popular Jain practice is to avoid any food after sunset. People attribute several reasons behind it including the inability to cook during night as there was no electricity in ancient times. Some reason that it was to avoid insects etc. But, Mahapragva says that the true reason is far more important and scientitic -- the digestion of food is accelerated in the presence of sunlight. Our 1cars-sharir gets its energy from sun. After sunset, it becomes inactive resulting in diminished digestion and consequent ailments. So the tradition of avoiding food after sunset is not mythical but scientific.
1.3. Ageing Exterior body is just like a machine or an engine. In fact, it is like a