________________
Sodhana Kriyas : An Analysis
20%
.
oo
Studies on the position of colon and distribution of colon contents during Nauli threw much light on physiological changes and also explained the principle of water suction during Basti Kriya and Vajroli, the phenomena which were attributed till that time to some miraculous powers of Yoga. These studies showed that the normal function of the colon could be helped and clinically Nauli could be used in the treatment of adhesions, kinks, hernia and constipation. Nauli not only creates partial pressures in the colon but also in all the internal cavities and helps in proper circulation, secretion, assimilation and elimination.
Swami Kuvalayananda also studied Vastra Dhauti under X-Rays to know the treatment given to the Dhauti by the stomach under normal conditions and under different Yogic exercises. It was observed that the Dhauti is pushed down the pyloric sphincter (lower end of the stomach) if it is allowed to remain in the stomach for more than about 20 minutes. This finding is of a practical importance. To err on a safer side, therefore, the Dhauti should be withdrawn within 20 minutes after the swallowed end first reaches the stomach. The contents of the duodenum are pushed back into the stomach by opening the pylorus during Uddiyāna.
Uropepsin excretion was studied during Danda Dhauti and Vastra Dhauti. The results indicated increased uropepsin excretion suggesting increased adreno-cortical activity. This explains the role of Dhautis in the treatment of Asthma, Eczema and other allergic conditions where cortisone therapy plays an effective role and brings forth the importance of Dhautis as a substitute or an adjunct to cortisone therapy.
Studies on the effect of Danda Dhauti on gastric acidity showed decrease in the secretion of free acid, while increase in the combined acid.
Váyubhaksana (swallowing the air) a process in Vatasära was also investigated for its effect on gastric acidity. This study indicated reduction in gastric acidity after filling the stomach with air during Vayubhakşana. Its clinical trial in cases of hyper-acidity may give encouraging results.
Influence of Trățaka (still gazing) on behaviour, when studied suggested its usefulness as a means of psycho-therapy.
Agnisara is an important kriyā classed under Dhauti by Gheranda Samhita. It involves holding of breath out after deepest exhalation, followed by alternate retraction and protrusion of the abdomen several times until the breath is held. This was studied for the pressure changes in the stomach. It was observed that very high negative pressure to the extent of 155 mm. Hg. (-55 mm. Hg, maintained) are produced when the abdomen was protruded during Agnisára. In retraction stage it was near about equal to the normal resting. Intra-thoracic pressure in protrusion was markedly positive, while during retracted stage it was near atmospheric.
Gajakarani, a kriyà causing voluntary vomitting, was seen to produce very high positive pressures in the stomach to the extent of + 90 to + 120 mm. Hg.
Alveolar CO2 percentages determined at the end of a two minute Kapălabhāti gave an average alveolar Co, percentage as 4.65. At the end of five minutes of Kapalabhati alveolar CO, concentration reached 4.89 percent.
There are some of the results of scientific investigations about 'sodhana Kriyas' carried on in the laboratory of Kaivalyadhäma, Lonavla.
Conclusion Despite high values attached to the "Godhana Kriyās" in maintaining psycho-physiological health of an individual and a great help rendered to the student of Yoga in attaining higher stages of consciousness, they have not attracted the attention of many practitioners of Yoga, especially in the West as much as other practices like asanas, prānāyāmas and meditation. The efficacy of "Godhana Kriyas" is not yet fully realised. Research workers in Yoga and medical men have not touched this aspect of Yoga. Therapeutical values of the "Sodhana Krivās" have
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
