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CONDUCT
C09 - Jain Yoga
It is the ability to become one with the true self and merge into an object of concentration. In this state of mind, the perceiver and the object of perception unite through the very act of perception-a true unity of all thought and action. This is the pinnacle of all yogic endeavors—the ultimate "yoga" or connection between the individual and the universal soul. 04 Yoga Benefits Some apparent benefits of yoga are physical and mental therapy, as well as curative and preventive therapy. According to medical scientists, yoga therapy is successful because of the balance created in the nervous and endocrine systems which directly influences all the other systems and organs of the body. The very essence of yoga lies in attaining mental peace, improved concentration, a relaxed state of living, and harmony in relationships. Regular practice of Asanas, Pränäyama and meditation can help treat diverse ailments such as diabetes, blood pressure, digestive disorders, arthritis, arteriosclerosis, chronic fatigue, asthma, varicose veins, and heart conditions. Laboratory tests have proved the yogi's increased abilities of consciously controlling autonomic or involuntary functions, such as temperature, heartbeat, and blood pressure. The aging process can be slowed down by practicing yoga. By keeping the body clean, flexible and well lubricated, we can significantly reduce the catabolic process of cell deterioration. Practicing yoga can provide chronic pain sufferers with useful tools to actively cope with their pain and counter feelings of helplessness and depression. Studies have also shown that practicing Yoga, results in increased brain activity, which is associated with better cognitive performance. Yogic stretching and breathing exercises have been seen to result in an invigorating effect on both mental and physical energy and improved mood. 05 Yogic Diet It is said that our level of development, mental and spiritual, is reflected in the kind of food we eat, and our stage of consciousness is revealed in the nature of that chosen food. Both Yoga and Ayurveda recommend a Sättvika or a pure vegetarian diet. Such a diet encourages the development of the higher qualities of peace, love, and spiritual awareness. Yoga and Ahimsa The basis of an ideal Sättvika diet is the attitude of ahimsa or nonviolence. A Sättvika or ascetic diet is purely vegetarian, avoiding all methods which involve the killing or harming of animals. In addition, a lot of emphasis is placed on natural foods, which involves foods grown in harmony with nature, on good soils, ripened naturally, and cooked in the right manner and attitude. A diet based on fresh fruits, fresh vegetables with the exception of onions and garlic, whole grains and beans, nuts, plant-based oils, natural sugar, and sweet spices like dry ginger is recommended for the practice of Yoga. Even while practicing a vegetarian diet, hot and extremely spicy food, artificial or processed food, stale and reheated food, artificial beverages, alcohol, tobacco, other stimulants, and overeating should be avoided. Following such a diet helps in the development of Präna or vital energy and spiritual consciousness. 06 Yogic Samkalpa (Oath) For Meditation Yoga cultivates the will or Samkalpa for self-realization, which are spiritually based. They consist of the intention that one will perform various yogic practices in order to grow spiritually. The following are a few simple yogic Samkalpas: Bhakti Yoga or Devotional Samkalpa: "OM! I will perform the following yogic practices as an offering to the Divine Beloved. May all the divine powers bless me in this endeavor!" Jnana Yoga or knowledge Samkalpa: "OM! I will perform the following meditations to gain knowledge of God and the higher Self. May God and the great teachers aid me in this effort!" Karma Yoga or Service Samkalpa:
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Compendium of Jainism - 2015
