Yoga is the union of individual Self, Jeevatma, with the universal self, Paramatma. It is the communion of the human soul with the divinity. The essence of our existence is our individual principle of Consciousness or the simple meaning of Yog is union. Yoga is the integration and harmony between thoughts, words, and deeds or integration between head, heart, and hands. Patanjali, writer of the classical yogic text, The Yogasutras, defines yoga asComplete control over the different patterns or modifications of consciousness. WHY YOGA Our actions in the outside world cause us pain or pleasure. These waves of pain and pleasure in our heart, Chitta, cause upheavals of emotions. They are: 1. Kama (infatuation) 2 . Krodha (Anger) 3 . Lobha (Greed) 4 . Moha (Lust) 5 . Mada (Pride) 6. Matsara (Malice). The scriptures explain these six emotions as the main enemies of man. These emotions consume energy of man. In order to minimize this waste of energy, Rishis, the seers of yore, discovered the discipline of yoga. Three Gunas(a) Tamas, (b) Rajas and (c) Sattwa control our activities in this world which are the agents of Cosmic Prakriti and Purusha. They pervade our bodily existence and control our activities. Tamas Guna Tamas means inertia or a static state. It also means ignorance or darkness. In natural sleep, one neither experiences ones own existence, nor witnesses the state of sleep. The Consciousness is totally under the influence of Tamo Guna in sleep. After natural sleep, tamoguna offers the entry in sattwa and rajo guna activity and offers virtue of serenity. However, in wakeful state, the continued tamoguna gives inertia, rest, and laziness.

8 Yoga At the time of the creation of the gross universe, the five great beings are in subtle bodies, that is, in the mind or in the consciousness unit. The gross bodies of the five great beings are formed by combination with one another. All gross bodies come into existence from all pervading spaceAakasha. The space Aakasha symbolizes Paramatma. The cosmic Prakriti Shakti is symbolized by air Vayu. It is the root cause of all movement. After this, fire, water, and earth are created. These elements combine with one another in a certain ratiothat is half of itself plus one- eighth of each of the other four. This process is called Panchikarana. When the gross bodies are formed. Aakashaspace manifests itself as sound. Vayuair manifests itself as sound and touch. Tejfire manifests itself as sound, touch, and form. Aapwater manifests itself as sound, touch, form, and taste. Prithviearth manifests itself as sound, touch, form, taste, and smell. Thus each succeeding element has a specific quality of its own. These specific qualities of the five great elements carry knowledge about that element. This knowledge is received in our body by the sense organs. Thus Ears give knowledge of soundthe space element. Skin gives knowledge of touchthe air element. Eyes give knowledge of formthe fire element. Tongue gives knowledge of tastethe water element. Nose gives knowledge of smellthe earth element. THE BODY EXPLAINED IN TERMS OF THE FIVE GREAT BEINGS The five vital airs Pancha Prana are the energies of the principle of consciousness of the five great beings. Pancha Prana controls the working of all the body cells and the different physiological system of the body. Prana is the most important vital air. The other four vital airs interact with Prana individually or in a group to bring about the physiological function. The Earth Principle All solid particles of the bodyminerals, proteins, carbohydrates, and fats are grouped under the earth principle.

Anatomy and Physiology for the Yoga Learner 1 1 The following description of the human anatomy and physiology illustrates the basic principles about the functioning of the body. The material is discussed under the following headings: 1 . A note on the functional organization of the human body and control of the Internal Environment. 2 . The Earth PrinciplePrithvi Tatwaconsisting of skin and musculoskeletal structures. 3 . The Water PrincipleAap Tatwaconsisting of the circulatory and respiratory system. 4 . The Fire PrincipleTej Tatwaconsisting of metabolism and the endocrine system. 5 . The Air PrincipleVayu Tatwaconsisting of the nervous system. 6 . The Space PrincipleAakasha Tatwaconsisting of body spaces. FUNCTIONAL ORGANIZATION OF THE HUMAN BODY AND CONTROL OF THE INTERNAL ENVIRONMENT The human body is made up of millions of cells. The basic living unit of the human body is a cell. Each organ is an aggregate of many different cells. Each cell is a discrete unit enclosed by a membrane. The cell membrane envelops the living aqueous (water) called cytoplasm or protoplasm. Cytoplasm contains one or more nuclei. The cytoplasm of the cell consists chemically of large and small organic molecules and inorganic ions in an aqueous solution. The nucleus, which contains genes and nucleic acids DNA and RNA, is responsible for hereditary instructions. The nucleus, according to Yogic science, is the mind and intelligence center for the cell. Extracellular fluid lies outside the cell filling the space in between the cell (intracellular) space. Extracellular fluid is in constant motion. It contains and supplies all the ions, nutrients, and oxygen needed by the cells for cellular life. The end toxic product such as water, carbon dioxide, etc. are discharged in the extracellular fluid. Thus, the extracellular fluid essentially forms the SAME internal environment for all the different cells. The cells, live, grow, reproduce, and perform their specific functions only when they have sufficient oxygen, glucose, different ions, amino acids, and fatty acids. The principal substances from which cells extract energy are oxygen, water, and food. This energy is the life force of the living cells. This energy is extracted from nature. Medical science tries to correlate this energy with the element manifestations of natures resources like oxygen, water, food, heat, etc.

1 6 Yoga 1 . The best time to practice yoga is early morning before breakfast, or with a very light snacks. Any time it should be done in empty stomach, ie. two hours after a light meal or four hours after a meal. 2 . Evacuate your bowel and bladder. 3 . Preferably bathe before and after practising asanas. It refreshes body and mind. 4 . Yogasanas should preferably be done in empty stomach, Vajrasan is the only asan which can be done after a meal 5 . Practice in a warm, quite, clean, and airy place. There should be proper ventilation. Do not perform asanas on bare floor or uneven place. Blanket or mat can be used. 6 . Dress should be loose and comfortable. 7 . Ladies should not do asanas during the advance stage of pregnancy or menstruation. 8 . Do not practice asanas after being out in the hot sun for several hours. 9 . Start the session with 5 minutes of toning up exercises to loosen the joints and the body. 1 0 . Breathing should be done through the nose only. 11. Standing asanas should be done first, followed by sitting , lying and inverted asanas, backward bends, twists, and forward bend. End the session with 5-10 minutes of savasana. 1 2 . Avoid jerky movements while doing asanas. Any asanas should not be completed with a jerk. It might produce pain, and harm the body. 1 3 . Practice asanas with full concentration and awareness of the bodypart. 1 4 . Exale during all forward bending movements in which the chest and abdomen is being compressed, and inhale during all backward bending movements in which the chest or abdomen is being expanded. Breath normally while maintaining the pose. 1 5 . In the beginning any asanas should be done for a shorter duration (2 or 3 minute), this time can be gradually increased, and the final posture can be maintained as long as possible without any physical or mental strain. 1 6 . Coming out of the final pose must be done by retracing the steps of going into the final pose of asanas. 1 7 . Do not force your body to achieve final pose. 1 8 . If practising in a group do not compete with others. 1 9 . If you have any medical problem, consult your doctor as well as inform your yoga teacher.

1 8 Yoga chapter five Asanas that Helps to Cure Disease and Symptoms Disease and Symptoms Group of Asanas Name of Asanas Obesity Standing asanas, Forward Garudasana, Parighasana, bending, Backward bending Gomukhasana, Ardhachandrasana, and twist. Pawanmuktasana, Ekapada Rajakapotasana, Urdhva Dhanurasana, Ardha Matsyendrasana, Bharadvajasana. Arthritis, Backache, Stress reducing asanas, Supta Baddha Konasana, and Spondylitis Backward bend asanas Garudasana, Anantasana, and twist Supta Virasana, Salbhasana, Bhujangasana, Ustrasana, Urdha Mukha Svanasana, Urdhva Dhanurasana, Dhanurasana. Asthma, Bronchitis, Forward bend, Supta Baddha Konasana, Chronic lung obstruction, Backward bend, Supta Virasana, Chronic cough, Stress reducing asanas, Adhomukha Svanasana, Bronchiectasis, cold Nadi Sodhana, Urdha Mukha Svanasana, Pranayama without Bhujangasana, Khumbka Janu Sirsasana, Urdha Dhanurasana, Pascimottanasana, Yoga Mudra, Ujjayi Pranayama, Nadi Sodhana Pranayama. Diabetes Forward bend, Supta Virasana, Backward bend, twist, Adhomukha Virasana, Stress reducing asanas Pawanmuktasana, Halasana, Bhujangasana, Bharadvajasana, Janu Sirsasana, Pascimottanasana, Nadi Sodhana Pranayama. Contd...

What is Yoga 8 7 Stress is a everyday fact of life. It is global and today it exists as an epidemic. Modern man, in spite of his current level of progress and advancement, is yet to conquer stress. In todays high pressure world, the stresses and strains of modern living can become increasingly hard to bear. Stress is something which cannot be avoided. Though we do differ in the extent to which we are stressed and the way in which we react to it, the fact remains that all of us are affected by it in one way or the other. In a study conducted by Harnet School of Public Health predicted the global burden of disease and injury in the year 2020, it would appear that stress killing the people as compared with infected diseases will be more. So stress management is going to be major future concern for all those who deal with human health. In simple terms, stress is a reaction or response to any kind of change. It is the physical and emotional response to situation, which are perceived as frightening, confusing, exciting or tiring. It not only gets precipitated by external demands, but can also be generated from within by our hopes, fears, expectations and beliefs. It acts like a signal for the mind and body to get prepared for any eventuality. STRESSGOOD OR BAD All stress is not bad. We sometimes hear people saying I work for better under pressure or tension. There are other class of people who endlessly crib about work pressure, mounting price, water shortage, what we need is a balance. Stress can be positive or negative. We always think of negative events or situations as the cause of stress. Some positive changes like, marriage, getting a new and better job, winning a match, Good results or becoming a parent prove to be stressful due to increased pressure and responsibilities. But since they are associated with positive feelings of pleasure, confidence, excitement, happiness, love and joy, they actually increase our resistance to stress. On the other hand negative situations such as illness, death, difficulty at the workplace, low income are all associated with negative feeling such as sadness, dissatisfaction, irritation. These feelings lower our resistance to stress and make us more prone to mental disturbances and diseases. Stress is not only desirable but essential to life. A certain amount of stress is essential for normal health. Complete freedom from stress is death. Some stress is required to stimulate us to do day- to-day task. In todays competitive world, its presence is more important. It is not just a pathological symptom, it is an essential feature of the mechanism which drives people. Any event or situation which is perceived as threatening demands active coping.

Stressors: Factors that Produce Stress 8 9 Stressors are the pressures that induce the stress. Stress has many meanings but most of us think, stress as the demands of life. These demands are called Stressors and the actual wear and tear on our bodies is the stress. These stressors or demands of life can come from people and events around us, as well as from our inner thoughts and struggles. Stressors: Where does stress come from As we have defined stressors as the external demand of life or the internal attitude or thoughts. It can include traffic jam, divorce, death or the angry boss, pollution all-around. We can keep them in different categories. DOMESTIC STRESSORS Interactions with family members can be stressful. The marriage was once a strong, supportive force that could help family members cope with other stressors. Now nearly 20-30% of all marriages end in divorce. The birth of a child places new demands for adaptation on a family. Some examples of domestic stressors are as below: Marriage Difference in mutual interests. Recurrent financial problem. Unfaithfulness. Sexual difficulties leading to frustration. Illness of spouse. Prolonged separation. Conflicting careers.

92 Stress Management There are four general reactions to stress, the normal in which the alert is followed by an action of defense. The neurotic in which the alert or anxiety is so great that the defense becomes ineffective, the psychotic in which the alarm may be misinterpreted or even ignored and the psychosomatic in which the defense by the mind fails and the alert is transmitted into the bodily systems causing changes in body tissues. Thus, prolonged alertness and tension can produce physiological disorders, involving specific body organs, ranging from minor ailments like tension, headache, migraine and backache while triggering off asthma, eczema, arthritis, palpitation, indigestion, diarrhoea, constipation and disturbed sleep. Following are common stress disorders: High blood pressure Hypertension or high blood pressure is directly related to the stress. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can strain the heart and contribute to the hardening of blood vessels, which causes premature heart attacks, neurological problems and other diseases of the blood vessels. Angina pectoris is another commonly seen problem which is characterised by tight gripping pain in the centre of the chest, often radiating to the left, or sometimes, to both arms, neck, throat or jaw. HEART ATTACK Cigarette smoking, excessive drinking and stress hormones are known to increase the stickiness of the blood cells making them prone to make thrombus which is the major cause of heart attack. Blood supply through that part of the blood vessel is completely cut off. That part of the heart muscle supplied by the blocked section dies. Chest pain is similar to angina but occurs even at rest and lasts longer. PALPITATION AND CHEST DISCOMFORT Palpitation increases the heartbeats. The normal heartbeat rate ranges between 60 to 80 beats per minutes. During physical or mental exertion, the rate rise to 150 or even 200 beats per minutes. Stress, anxiety, excessive alcohol and smoking frequently cause palpitation.

Coping with Stress 9 5 Stress whether good or bad, is all pervading facet of life. Coping with stress means the ways and means you adopt to keep stress at manageable level, bring about certain changes in yourself, so that you perceive the stressor as not so threatening, or find ways to convert it into a motivating or driving force. NEGATIVE COPING METHODS Coping of stress can be negative or positive. Lets first talk about negative coping. By negative coping we mean those attempts to manage or control stress, which at that time seems to be worthwhile efforts, but in reality only further add to the stress level in imperceptible ways . Some of these negative coping techniques initially combat the immediate effects of the stressful event or situation, giving a false sense of relief and comfort and thus making you resort to these methods of coping again. These methods have a cumulative negative effect on your body and mind and you may feel their damaging effects when it is too late to change this coping pattern. For example, alcohol is a selective and progressive depressant of brain functions. Though initially a small quantity may lift your inhibitions and make you feel confident. Once the tranquilizing effect wears off, an upsurge of anxiety and tension erupts. Excessive drinking can cause physical diseases, memory disturbances, brain damage, and induce aggression or anger. Which finally leads to breakdown of family life and greater amount of stress which goes beyond coping. Few unhealthy habits like drinking, smoking, eating too much or too little food, resorting to drugs or tranquilizers, drinking too much coffee, sleeping too much, increases susceptibility to stress. POSITIVE COPING METHODS Certain healthy habits on the other hand, can actually help reduce stress and its effects on both the body and the mind. Nutrition What we eat we are. What and how we eat determines how healthy we can be able to prevent disease. Some believe that nutritious balanced diet, eaten at regular, fixed hours is a good antidote to the tensions of daily living.

Mental Techniques to Combat Stress 9 7 How can we relax and learn to do it well Relaxation techniques start by taking your consciousness away from emotionally-charged thoughts and directing it to activities that are emotionally neutral such as the awareness of your breath or different parts of your body. BREATHING Breathing is essential to life. It is automatic and usually involuntary, but is also unique that it can be controlled by deliberate effort. It can affect our emotional and physical feelings. Thus, proper breathing habits are essential for good mental and physical health. Types of Breathing There are basically two types of breathing (i) Chest breathing and (ii) Abdominal breathing. Chest breathing is characterized by an upward, outward, movement of the chest wall. The breath is shallow, and unsteady. It is usually seen when the body is aroused by certain challenging or stressful situations. There is direct relationship between the mind and breathing. Until and unless this shallow and unsteady breathing is replaced by deep and even abdominal breathing, the body will continue to be in a state of constant arousal and tension. Abdominal breathing is also called diaphragmatic breathing, since it involves the diaphragm. When we inhale, diaphragm contracts and pushes downwards. This relaxes the abdominal muscles. While breathing out, the diaphragm relaxes and the abdominal muscles contract to expel the impure air. It is the most efficient type of breathing, because it enhances greater expansion and ventilation of the lungs. It also improves circulation. When we are calm and relaxed, our breathing is abdominal and due to the direct relationship between the mind and breathing, practicing abdominal breathing leads to mental as well as physical relaxation. Breathing exercise can help in reducing anxiety, depression, irritability, muscle tension and fatigue. A breathing exercise can be learned in a matter of minutes and some immediate benefits experienced, but its profounder effects may not be fully apparent until months of persistent practice have passed. A Simple Deep Breathing Exercise Concentrate on your breathing several times during the day. It could be done anywhere, anytime. Close your eyes, take a deep breath. Inhale through your nose.

106 Stress Management BIOFEEDBACK Biofeedback is a common form of stress management and relaxation therapy. Biofeedback is the use of instrumentation to observe bodily processes, which are otherwise not visible or audible, and to help bring them under voluntary control. Information about the working of your body is fed to you by means of a visual or audio display so that you are actually able to observe how your heart, muscular system, breathing, etc. behaves when you are stressed. Biofeedback machines give immediate and ongoing information about biological activity, muscle tension, skin temperature, brain wave activity sweating (skin conductivity) blood pressure, heart rate and breathing (respiration). Indications Tension headache, migraine, hypertension, insomnia, muscle spasm, pain epilepsy, anxiety, phobia, asthma, stuttering and teeth grinding. Method The following are the standard modalities which are commonly used in biofeedback applications in the treatment of certain stress-related disorders. Electromyogram (EMG) Training The muscular tension present in the skeletal muscles of the voluntary nervous system is monitored by the EMG machine. These muscles include Frontalis muscles The muscle in your forehead that make you frown and tighten when you are worried or tense. Mastoid Muscle that tightens your jaws and remains clenched when you are angry. Trapezius Muscle that hunches your shoulders and tightens when you are alarmed or chronically anxious. These muscles typically respond to stress and are accessible to monitoring. EMG training is done using two electrode placed at a convenient distance from each other and the third electrode placed on a neutral tissue (bone) to serve as an electrical reference point.

Lifestyle Management 109 NUTRITION Your nutrition can determine how you look, act and feel. Proper nutrition and adopting healthy eating habits can increase resistance to stress as well as directly reduce the chances of illness. The Relationship between Stress and Eating Habits People respond to stress in different ways: some smoke, some drink alcohol and some increases or decreases their food consumption. The net effect of overeating is weight gain. Weight gain is still another source of stress in our society. Stressful situationovereating More stressWeight gain OvereatingMore weight gain. The most important thing to realize about this cycle is that the episode of overeating did not solve the problem unless the stressor was hunger. Stress is often used as an excuse for not eating properly. I dont have time to eat. Instead of taking a break, consumes candy bars and potato chips. What Makes-up a Healthy Diet Although, individual requirements may vary significantly, the quality of a diet has to be kept in mind. 1 . Eat a variety of foods. The greater the variety in your diet, the less the likelihood of a deficiency or an excess of any single nutrient. 2 . Maintain ideal body weight. Being overweight puts stress on your body. Long-term weight maintenance depends on modifying your eating habits and on exercise. The following are some useful suggestions. Eat slowly Eat regularly Do not eat, if you are feeling bored, instead engage in a pleasurable activity. Do not eat, if you are angry. Communicate share your feelings. When you are tired, go to bed, take a warm bath, drink water or lemon juice, rather than giving in to eating. Eat smaller portions, keep serving dishes off the table.

112 Stress Management 1 . Add Laughter in your life a . Try to spend as much time as possible with cheerful people. b . Try not to take yourself too seriously always. Watch funny films, videos, read funny books. YOU WILL FIND DIFFICULT TO STAY SAD !! 2 . Release your anger healthilyAnger is a normal human emotion. The biggest problem we face isLearning how to discharge it in a manner that is both acceptable in society and healthy for ourselves. Here are a few steps to a healthy anger release Recognize the anger you are feeling. We often deny anger because we either feel too guilty about it or afraid of it, which is more dangerous. Decide what makes you angryAsk yourself, Is this getting angry over. Give the provoker the benefit of doubt, instead of inflaming your anger. Suggest to yourself that perhaps the other person has a bad day. Come up with a reasonable justification for the others behavior. Count to ten or practice some form of mental relaxationcalm down first, then discuss the conflict in a more rational peaceful way. ListenListen carefully and understand Learn the art of forgivingLearn to forgive someone, many positive psychological and physiological changes take place. You feel warm and melty, your blood pressure and heart rate drop, you may even cry. But most important, we need to forgive for our own sake. So remember, the worst thing you could do with your anger is hit out. Accept it and handle it effectively and carefully. 3 . MassageMassage is a way of bringing touch back into your life and using it to soothe, calm and transmit caring. It is wordless communication of affection and understanding from one human to another. It releases tension from aching muscles, stimulates blood flow, eases stress, helps fluid drainage, generates sense of wholeness and peace. Massage, thus, greatly increases our sense of well being, both physical and mental. 4 . MusicThe power of music to promote change is not a new concept. The ways in which music affects us are varied. According to Diserens, it increases body metabolism, changes muscular activity, affects respiration, produces marked effect on pulse and blood pressure, reduces stress.

Naturotherapy or Naturopathy or Nature care is a system of medicine, which aims at restoring health and eliminating disease by building up the vitality of the body. Its a constructive method of treatment, which aims at removing the basic cause of disease through the rational use of the elements, which is freely available in our nature. The modern methods of nature cure originated in Germany in 1822, when Vincent Priessnitz established the first hydropathic establishment there. With his success in water cure, the idea of drugless healing spread throughout the world. Many medical practitioners from America subsequently enlarged and developed the various methods of natural healing in their own way. The whole knowledge was collected under one nameNaturopathy. Dr Benedict Lust is known as Father of Naturopathy. Nature cure is based on the theory that man is born healthy and strong and that he can stay as such by living in accordance with the laws of nature. Sunshine, fresh air, exercise, proper diet, relaxation, constructive thinking and the right mental attitude, along with prayer and meditation all play their part in keeping a sound mind in a sound body. Disease, on the other hand, is an abnormal condition of the body resulting from the violation of the natural law, where the cell metabolism of one or more organs has deviated from the normal path. This derangement of metabolism is commonly caused by. Dietary imbalance and deficiency. Poor living habits, such as shallow breathing, lack of exercise, rushed meals, negative thinking. Stress due to nervous tension, sudden environmental changes, occupational pressures. In naturopathic theory, all disease first appears at the cell level of the body. Typical stages of a disease process are Mineral and vitamin concentration fall Enzyme action slows, vital enzymes cease to function Metabolism slows and alters Metabolic wastes build up The cell membrane degenerates Inflammation and pain are produced as warning Bacteria manifest and multiply, feeding off the waste Toxins produced by the bacteria cause further cellular injury Cell membranes disintegrate, the action of the organs is seriously impaired and their integrity is threatened. Degeneration of the organ sets in. The result of this disease process will show up in several ways.

Methods of Nature Cure 119 The nature cure system aims at the readjustment of the human system from abnormal to normal conditions and functions, and adopts methods to cure which are in conformity with the constructive principles of nature. First step towards curing disease is proper diet. To get rid of accumulated toxins and restore the equilibrium of the system, exclude acid-forming foods, including proteins starches and fats for a week or more and, take fresh fruits which will disinfect the stomach and alimentary canal. Do not overeat when you are sick, stick to very light diet of fresh fruit. Another important factor in the cure of diseases by natural methods is to stimulate the vitality of the body. This can be achieved by using water in various ways and at varying temperature in the form of packs or baths. The application of cold water, especially to the abdomen, the seat of most diseases, and to the sexual organs, through a cold hip bath immediately lowers body heat and stimulate the nervous system. In the form of wet packs, hydrotherapy offers a simple natural method of abating fevers and reducing pain and inflammation, without any harmful side effects. Warm water application is relaxing. Other natural methods, which are useful in curing diseases, are sun bath, massage, and manipulation exercise. Thus, a well balanced diet sufficient physical exercise, fresh air, plenty of sunlight, pure drinking water scrupulous cleanliness, adequate rest and right mental attitude can ensure proper health and prevent disease. DIET Diet plays a vital role in the maintenance of good health and in the prevention and cure of disease. The human body builds up and maintains healthy cells, tissues, glands and organs only with the help of various nutrients. The body can not perform any of its function, metabolic, hormonal, mental, physical or chemical without specific nutrients. Nutrition, which depends on food, is the most important factor to cure disease. There is an elaborate healing mechanism within the body but it can perform its function only if it is abundantly supplied with all the essential nutritional factors. It is believed that at least 45 chemical components and elements are needed by human cells. Each of these 45 substances, called essential nutrients, must be present in adequate diets. The list of these nutrients, include oxygen and water. The other 43 essential nutrients are classified into five main groups, namely carbohydrates, fats, proteins, minerals and vitamins. All 45 nutrients are vitally important and they work together. Therefore, the absence of any of them will result in disease and eventually in death.

Earth itself is a huge magnet and possesses a magnetic field. All bodies in this space have their own magnetic field. Thus, man is constantly surrounded by magnetic waves and is influenced by them. Very natural health can be restored or maintained with the help of a controlled magnetic field emanating from artificial magnets. This therapy is based upon the principle that every disease is the result of an imbalance or in-coordination between the various electromagnetic forces present inside the body. Magnet therapy strives to eliminate such in-coordination and restore the natural balance of forces. Almost every disease can be treated with magnet. This therapy has a firm scientific base. It has gained tremendous popularity and acceptance in countries like Japan, America, Russia and Germany. In our country, still more awareness is needed.

The most important forces of nature include gravity, Nuclear force, Radiation and electromagnetic force. Magnetism is a part of the electromagnetic force. Let us consider hydrogen atom. Nucleus of the hydrogen atom consists of a proton which constantly spin, which is not, only rotates around its own axis but also revolves around the center. This movement also contribute to the magnetic field of the hydrogen atom. Thus, an atom is the smallest magnet exist. All the substance in this universe is made up of atoms, so electromagnetic waves are omnipresent. EarthA Huge Natural Magnet 1 . The earths magnetism originates because of the spinning of the earth about its own axis. One more theory which is accepted. 2 . The earths magnetism originates because of the electricity generated by the charged ions present in the atmosphere, especially the ionosphere. Beyond the ionosphere of the earth, there is vast area full of harmful radiation. This area or belt is known as Van Allen belt. The earths magnetic field effectively prevents this harmful radiation form reaching the earths surface. Thus, this magnetic field serves a protective purpose for all living beings. Earths magnetic field is measured only about 0.5 gauss, which is adequate to protect and sustain life. Very important to know that earths magnetic north Pole is situated at its geographic South Pole and the magnetic South Pole is situated at its geographic North Pole. The Effect of Earths Magnetic Field on Human Body Baron Von Richenbach has found in his experiments that sensitive persons find discomfort and become agitated if lie down with their head towards the South. On the other hand, they feel relaxed and fall asleep when they lie down with their heads towards the north. In short, when a person remains parallel to the earths magnetic field, he can do any work with least difficulty. Experiments have shown that when the head of a person lies towards the north, alpha, delta and theta waves dominate inside the brain gradually the thinking process slows down and person feel relaxed. Thus, the brain requires the cooling and peace-giving waves emanating at the geographic North Pole of the earth (i.e. its magnetic South Pole). If lying down in the north-south direction can be kept under the pillow such that the cool South Pole lies upward i.e. faces the persons head.

It is very important to know what changes occur in our body when magnets are applied to the body part. Every cell and every organ of our body is a magnetic unit and has a specific vibratory frequency. When there is a perfect harmony between the vibratory frequencies of the various tissues and organs of the body. We are in good health. If this harmony is imbalance because of changes in the natural vibratory frequency of an organ or a part of the body causes disease. Magnet therapy strikes at the root of the disease. It strives to restore the natural vibratory frequency of the various organs and to re-establish a balance in their electromagnetic forces. The Direct Effects of Magnetism When magnet are kept in contact with a part of the body, the cells and organs of that part regain their natural vibratory frequency. The electromagnetic waves coming from the magnets are capable of very deep and extensive penetration and reach almost every cell of the concerned part of the body. The protoplasm of the cells gets polarised. Such polarisation imparts strength to the cells. When magnets are placed near the body, the regeneration proces in that part is stimulated. New, healthy ones replace old worn out cells. It helps to heat the wound faster. Magnet also suppresses the activities of harmful bacteria, which causes disease. The Indirect Effects of Magnetism A magnet affects the physical and chemical properties of liquids. Centers of crystallisation increases, the density, the viscosity, the surface tension is suitable altered. When electromagnetic waves enter the blood stream, they produce eddy current. These eddy currents warm up the blood and increase the number of ions in the blood. These ion-rich polarised and warm blood circulates it provides good heath. It helps in the removal of metabolic waste product. Which helps to reduce muscular tension, fatigues and pain. Cholesterol deposition on the inner surface of the blood vessels are eroded and dissolved. Thus, blood supply to organs are improved. This warm blood stimulates the endocrine glands to function properly. It helps to bring down ESR and WBC count in infectious illness, where it goes up abnormally. In short, magnetised blood rejuvenates and invigorates each and every cell of the body, various systems of the body become more efficient, Resistance Power increases.

142 Magneto Therapy Substances can be classified into three category: I Ferromagnetic I I Paramagnetic I I I Diamagnetic Ferromagnetic substances are strongly attracted towards a magnet, e.g. Iron, Nickel, Cobalt. Paramagnetic substances are mildly attracted towards a magnetsuch as water, oil. Diamagnetic substances move away from a magnet, Gold, Sliver, Zinc. Effects of Magnetic Field on Water It has been found that magnetic field increases the centers of crystallisation in fluids. When exposed to a strong magnetic field physical properties of water like density, viscosity, surface tension, electrical conductivity and chemical properties like pH, nitrogen ion concentration undergo changes. This water is termed as magnetised water. This magnetised water, when drunk, favorably affects the health. This water is useful in most diseases especially in digestive, excretory and the nervous system. It helps to improve digestion, reduces gastric acidity, helps to cure constipation and it is also very helpful in treating menstrual problem. It taken regularly prevents deposition of cholestrol on the inner surface of blood vessels. Magnetised water is diuretic in nature, which is found very useful treating kidney troubles. It is also very useful treating kidney stones. This water strengthens and invigorates the natural resistance power to the body. Hence, it is useful in case of viral disease, common cold, cough, asthma and most other diseases. How to Magnetise Water Strong magnets are used to magnetise water. Water should be in plastic bottle or glass bottle and should be kept in contact with strong magnet for about 24 hours. Water influenced by both the Poles (south as well as north) simultaneously should be consumed. For this two magnets should be placed on either side of a bottle containing water such that the North Pole of one magnet faces the South Pole of the other magnet. Water magnetised by only one Pole may be used for certain problem as in hyperacidity or gastric ulcer water magnetised by South Pole alone should be used. On the other hand, for sluggish digestion, water magnetised with North Pole alone can be used. For magnetising water, the magnets are to be kept in contact with the water bottle from outside; they should not immersed into the water. It should not be heated or kept in a refrigerator.

Oil too, can be magnetised and rendered more useful. OIL INFLUENCED WITH BOTH THE POLES Take a glass bottle filled with required oil. Keep strong magnets in contact with this bottle such that North Pole of one magnet faces the South Pole of the other magnet. Retain such contact for 15 to 20 days. This oil can be used for hair, baby massage or for instilling in the nose and ears. OIL INFLUENCED WITH NORTH POLE In this method only the North Pole of the magnet should be in contact with the bottle containing oil. The magnet should preferably be positioned such that it faces the north direction. This oil is recommended as a massage medium in general weakness, paralysis, and baldness. OIL INFLUENCED WITH SOUTH POLE In this method, only the South Pole of the strong magnet should be in contact with oil bottle. The magnet should be positioned to face the south direction. This oil is recommended in case of massaging join disorders, pain, and skin problem and insomnia (scalp massage). Milk magnetised for a few minutes with the north Pole, if drunk at night, enhances sexual ability.

Principles of Applying Magnets for Treatment 145 chapter twenty-one Principles of Applying Magnets for Treatment There are two important methods of applying magnets. 1 . The unipolar method, where only one Pole (either the south or the north) is used at a time 2 . The bipolar method, where both the Poles are used simultaneously. First we should know the properties of both Poles. Properties of South Pole i . It is inhibitory and suppressive ii. It imparts coolness and peace iii. If kept in water for sometime, it makes the water slightly alkaline. It decreases the acidity of fluids. iv. It produces contraction and shrinkage of body tissue. v . It slows down the circulation in small blood vessels and capillaries. vi. It inhibits the activity of bacteria, controls infection and decreases inflammation vii. It arrests growth of boils, carbuncles and tumors. viii. Decreases pain and body temperature. Thus, the South Pole is useful in infectious and inflammatory conditions. It is commonly used in skin condition arthritis, infectious diseases, tumors, anxiety, convulsions, pain neuralgia insomnia and many more. Properties of the North Pole i . The North Pole possesses stimulatory or augmentative properties. ii. It imparts warmth and energy. iii. If placed in water for sometime, it increases acidity of fluid. iv. It produces expansion of body tissue. v . Speeds up the circulation in small blood vessels and capillaries. v i . It encourages the activity and growth of bacteria, worsens infections and increases swelling. vii. Stimulates the growth of boils and tumors. viii. No effect on pain, sometime it increases pain and it increases body-temperature. The energy, strength and warmth giving properties of the North Pole can be utilised to treat paralysis, hernia, leucoderma, boldness, muscle weakness, general weakness unconscious- ness and many more diseases.

148 Magneto Therapy chapter twenty-two Advantage of Magnetotherapy The antibiotics and other medicines are found to give major side effects. Many time body opposes these medicines on the other hand magnetotherapy is an external mode of treatment which doesnt play with the various chemicals and enzymes present inside the body and it is also safe and harmless. Side effects are unknown with magnetotherapy . Its not a slow or long-term treatment. Results can be seen immediate. Magnetotherapy is very simple. It can be employed for patients of any sex or age. No preparation is essential before starting the treatment. It needs very little care in the form of cleaning or sterilization. If treating skin disease, little care should be taken. After treating skin diseases magnet need to be cleaned. There is no need to go to clinic; it can be taken at home. There is no particular time for treatment. It can be taken any time of the day. Once purchased, the magnet can be used for years, because they retain their power for a long time. Magnetic treatment is not addictive. No harm arises up abruptly. Magnets can be used to disperse fatigue and irritation. All together magnets can prolong life and prevent senility. PRESERVATION OF MAGNET 1 . Magnet should not be allowed to clash with each other or to fall, otherwise steel magnet may loose their power and ceramic magnets may break. 2 . Magnet should preferably be kept in a wooden case or a wooden cupboard, when not in use. 3 . Steel magnets should not be allowed to get wet to prevent them from resting. Similarly, the part of the body to which the magnet is to be applied should be completely wiped, free of sweat.

chapter twenty-three History of Acupuncture Acupuncture is the ancient Chinese art of healing and is probably more than 5,000 years old. It is believed that once a Chinese soldiers leg was wounded by an arrow, on removal of the arrow, suddenly he got relieved from shoulder pain, which he was suffering from many years, he could move freely his shoulder again without any pain. This incident forced physicians to think, was there a relationship between the arrow wound and the relief from pain, over a period of time they found that there are many points located near the nerve ending, which when stimulated, has therapeutic effects. They have used different medium to stimulate these points with sharpened fish bones; bamboo sticks and stone needles (known as BIAN). They have got very good results. They were surprised to know that there is some kind of link or channels in the human body, which carries these healing effects. Thus began the art and science of acupuncture. Huang Di Nei Jing Su Wen popularly called the yellow emperors classic of internal medicine, is the foundation stone of traditional chinese medicine. It is said to be the oldest medical text in the world. This book is written in two parts, first known as Su Wen or simple question, contains the principles of medicine, in second part acupuncture is described know as Ling Shu or magic gate. This deals with the prevention and cure of illness. The acupuncture points were first systematically described during the Tsin Dynasty (265- 420A.D.) and about 349 basic acupuncture points and about 649 in whole body were listed. The ancient philosophic theory of the five element and the concept of Yin and Yang has been used since 770-467 BC of chinese history. The theory of meridians and Luo connection and flow of Qi through them is the base of acupuncture. The whole world is divided into five elementswood, fire, earth, metal and water. Which transform into one another and this process maintains the existence. Moxibustion is originated in northern China. They discovered that applying heat relieves symptom of abdominal pain, distension and fullness. Based on these observations hot pressing and moxibustion method were developed. Even now we use this method for treating illness and pain. Leading institutes of Australia, USA, Japan, France, Korea, Germany, Hong Kong and China are engaged in further acupuncture research. Only future would be able to tell us, up to what heights this method of curing human disease will rise.

152 Acupuncture chapter twenty-four What is Acupuncture In Latin ACUS means needle and Punctura or Pungue means pricking. Acupuncture is an ancient chinese art of healing, where various diseases of the body cured by inserting very fine needles in the specific points of the body. There are more than 1,000 acupunture points in the human body located along 12 main pathways or channels in each half of the body and two channels in the mid-line of the body. These points when stimulated either by needles or warming cure the disease. This needle stimulation can be done manually or electrically. Burning a herb Artemisia vulgaris can do the heating and this technique is known as moxibustion. These two techniques can be practised separately or in combination. THE CONCEPT OF CHI (QI) OR LIFE ENERGY According to Chinese philosophy, every thing in the universe comprises energy. This energy in the Chinese language is called Qi or Chi (pronounced chee). In the Indian philosophy it is known as Prana . The principle of Prana is quite similar to the Qi or the energy of life. The primary function of Qi can be seen in all movements, whether involuntary such as heartbeats and respiration or voluntary such as walking, eating. Qi is universal and present at all the time in different form. It is the invisible force responsible for all the movement of life. It permeates all living cells and circulates in the body and a constant process of the transformation of air, food and water into the Qi takes place throughout one life. Qi or Chi has two components Yin and Yang . YIN AND YANG (Fig. 24.1) In every organism, a part is the whole and the whole is the part- Dwait theory of Hinduism. Yin and Yang they are dynamically opposite yet harmonising energies. This harmony brings about a balanced state of the universe. Good health is the state of energy balance and bad health imbalance between both energies. They act as opposite poles negative and positive and are complementary to each other. Yang signifies for male, light, active, warm, dry sun, heaven, up, strength, and all that is positive. Yin g signifies for female, passive, dark, cold, moist, moon, earth, dirty, peace, harmony, endurance, weakness and all that is negative. Figure 24.

Positive Effects of Acupuncture 157 chapter twenty-five Positive Effects of Acupuncture The effects observed on needling on the body are both subjective and objective. Subjective Effects 1. Pain at the site of needling is the first sensation felt by patient. This particular sense in Chinese is called deqi. 2. Numbness when the needle is passed into the body, patient feels numbness along the meridian. 3. Heaviness Sometimes the needling point is becoming heavy mainly in extremities. 4. Soreness Sometimes patient complains of soreness. 5. Distension Patient feels something is moving from the needling point to the end of the meridian. Deqi with combination of other senses indicates that the needle have been placed accurately for the success of treatment. Objective Effects These are physiological effects: Analgesia Acupuncture needling raises pain threshold through, A . Sensations arising out of this needling compete with the painful stimuli, reach the spinal cord first and block the incoming painful sensation according to Gate control theory which says all pain impulses are first controlled and modulated in the substantia gelationosa (first functional gate) of the spinal cord, before they travel up through spino-thalamic tracts(second functional gate). When these impulses reaches cerebral cortex, patient feels pain. Para ventricular and the contra lateral nuclei of the thalamus and the medial reticular foramen of the midbrain also work as functional gate. By needling the acupuncture point, the over- crowding of the impulses occurs at the functional gates and needling the acupuncture point blocks them proceeding further. This causes increase in pain threshold and gives analgesic effects. B . By needling certain chemicals and neurotransmitters such as endorphins and enkephalins are secreted in the body, which bind themselves with specific receptors in the brain to block the painful sensations.

Positive Effects of Acupuncture 159 chapter twenty-six t-Sun: A Unit of Measurement Unit of the measuring acupuncture points on the body is t-sun or cun, one t-sun or cun is the distance between the palmer creases over the proximal and distal inter phalangeal joint of the middle finger of the patient. The combined breadth of the index and middle finger is 1.5 t-sun. The combined breadth of the four fingers together is 3 t-sun or 3 cuns. One fen is equal to 0.1 t-sun Eight t-sun equal to 1 Fu. Figure 26.

160 Acupuncture chapter twenty-seven Methods of Stimulation in Acupuncture According to the traditional Chinese concept, the acupuncture points are located on the body following the meridian system. When these points are stimulated by different methods, they result in bringing the equilibrium in the disturbed energy, i.e. QI. According to the modern concept, the acupuncture points are low electrical resistance spots all over the body. During any disease the electrical resistance falls down in it. When these points are stimulated, they can cure the disease by maintaining the energy equilibrium. Table 27.1 Stimulation Ancient Modern Heat Needle H a n d Self Stimulation Insertion Stimulation Stimulation a. General Heat a. Acu massage a. Acu yoga b. Moxibustion b. Acupressure b. Meridian c. Cupping c. Micro massage c. Exercises Electro Radiation High frequency Magnetic Stimulation a . Laser vibration stimulation b. Ultra voilet a. Radio frequency c. Infra Red b. Transcutaneous c. Ultrasonics Heat Stimulation a. General or Direct heat In this type of Stimulation, a hot coin or scarring the acupuncture point with red hot iron was done. b. Moxibustion In this therapy part was treated by heating a point by burning moxa wool to produce heat.

166 Acupuncture chapter twenty-eight Methods of Acupuncture In ancient India Rishis used fish bones and pointed bamboo sticks for effective treatment. In ancient China needles made out of bamboo, animal horns, and a variety of metals were used. Later silver and gold needles were used. Nowadays the most commonly used needles are made up of stainless steel with handle of silver which is quite effective and economical. There are several shapes and sizes of needle. Filliform Needle This is the most common needle used, available in different length ranging from 0.5 t-sun to 8.0 t-sun. They are used according to site and desired depth of insertion. It is available in different diameters thick needles produces more pain and it is used for stronger stimulation. Thin needles are less painful. Thickness varies from 26 to 32 gauge. Figure 28.1: Parts of needle Parts of needle Filliform needles with double spiral handle are used for scalp acupuncture. They are 1.5 to 2 t-sun in length and 28-30 gauge thick. Same for upper extremely 1 to 2 t-sun in length and about 30 mm is used. Longer needles are used for areas like buttock, where muscle mass is thick. 3 to 5 t-sun in length and 20- 30 mm is used. Gaugestandard unit for measuring thickness of Metal. Press (Intra-dermal Needles) (Fig. 28.2) They are small buttonshaped needles with a point projecting from center. The length of tip is about 1 mm. In chronic stubborn diseases like bronchial asthma and certain type of addiction continuous stimulation is required on ear points. The needle should be fixed on the ear point with adhesive plaster and it can be kept for 3 to 5 days and patient is advised to massage over it 3 to 4 times a day. Figure 28.

182 Acupuncture chapter twenty-nine Diagnosis Diagnosis can be done either in (i) modern ways (ii) or traditional Chinese way. MODERN DIAGNOSTIC METHOD Like other general assessment first start with history of the patient. Except from name, age, sex ask for chief complaints, duration of illness occupation, living environment, social status, medical history. Clinical Examination We can examine in two ways General examination Systemic examination ( i ) General examinationLook for pulse, temperature, nails, glands, pupil, visible pulsations throat. (ii) Systemic examinationLook for digestive, Respiratory, Cardiovascular, genitourinary system. Musculoskeletal system. (iii) Local examination of the treatment part should be done carefully. (iv) Specific Clinical test should be done to ensure the diagnosis ( v ) Apart from this rectal and Vaginal examination should be done by finger and speculum. Investigation Investigation should be fur than done to confirm the diagnosis. ( i ) Laboratory tests of Urine, blood, stool, sputum is done (ii) X-rays, ECG, EEG, Sugar, Cholesterol, Urea VDRL, WIDAL, electromyogram is done in advanced stage. (iii) Biopsy and histopathology is done if so required. TRADITIONAL CHINESE DIAGNOSTIC METHODS ( i ) InspectionInspect the patient in various ways as we do in modern times. (ii) SmellSome disease can be diagnosed by smelling as coma and ketoacidisos (iii) AuscultationChinese were using their ear for Auscultation as stethoscope was not there. (iv) PercussionPercussion were done as it is done in modern way. ( v ) Special testThese were done for eyes, tongue, lips, skin and nails.

Complications and Contraindications 185 chapter thirty Complications and Contraindications CONTRAINDICATIONS 1 . It should not be used on certain area a . Umbilicus area b . Nipple and breast tissue c . External genitals d . Fontanelles in children e . Points overlying vulnerable structures. 2 . It should not be used in following circumstances: a. Mechanical obstruction and frank surgical cases like strangulated hernia, intussueption, intestinal perforation, fracture, etc. b . Patient under the influence of alcohol, full stomach, empty stomach, coitus, heavy exertion, etc. c . MalignancyAcupuncture can be used for relief from symptoms and complications of cancer but not as a cancer sure. d . PregnancyIt may be lead to miscarriage or still birth, but it can be useful to treat vomiting and pain of childbirth. e . Patient with bleeding disorders. COMPLICATIONS Complications does not occur often but may arise due to improper techniques or carelessness. 1 . PainIn some patient it varies in different degrees. This can be due to swift insertion of needle, bad needle, nervous patient or bad posture adopted by patient or therapist. 2 . Needle dystociaAfter needle is inserted on the acupuncture point, sometimes muscle may become shift due to local spasm, in such case needle get fixed into the muscle. In this case, needle should be left in place for sometime massage or brisk stroking can be given around the needle in order to reduce the spasm, which makes removal of needle easier. 3 . Bent NeedleIn case needle get bent during insertion, dont rush to remove the needle without knowing the type of bending otherwise it may damage internal blood vessel. 4 . FaintingNervousness, tiredness, hunger weakness, painful insertion of needles and excessive stimulation may lead to fainting.