Book Title: Preksha Meditation
Author(s): Jethalal S Zaveri
Publisher: Jain Vishva Bharati

View full book text
Previous | Next

Page 18
________________ more frequent, there is no opportunity to make appropriate use of the physiological changes brought about by the mechanism. We can neither fight nor run away from the common problems of the modern life. The response is thus not used appropriately. Thus, what happened to be a bliss for our ancestors has turned to be a curse for us. Remedy is also Inherent Question then arises : are we destined to be doomed by our environment or are we capable of adapting ourselves so as to avoid, at least, the more injurious effects of the daily stress? Modern life-styles are most unlikely to change for the better. On the contrary, we may be tested more than ever before. We must therefore, find the remedy within our own organism and develop the capability to adjust the physiologically jarring conditions within us due to our environment. Fortunately, we do also possess an innate protective mechanism aga overstress which produces physiological condition that is diametrically opposite to the fight-or-flight response and it is possible to train ourselves to activate this mechanism and to influence our reaction to stress through controlled mental practices called meditation. Meditation Produces Relaxation Physiological functions could be controlled through various meditational techniques. Regular practice of meditation could reduce the blood-pressure, heart-rate and metabolism. Modern scientific investigations have confirmed that (i) meditation produces change in the electrical activity of the brain; (ii) soothing rhythm of calm brain waves of alpha type can be produced at will by regular practitioners; and (iii) mechanism of the autonomous nervous system can be activated through the control of certain voluntary mental actions. Scientific investigations have also provided evidence that meditation can influence the control or command mechanisms which are ultimately responsible for the home. ostasis in the body. These effects are produced by : 13 Jain Education International For Private & Personal Use Only www.jainelibrary.org

Loading...

Page Navigation
1 ... 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34