Holi, a cherished festival in India, symbolises the triumph of good over evil and fosters a sense of unity and joy among people of all ages. It’s a time when communities gather to revel in colourful celebrations marked by playful exchanges of vibrant hues. However, amidst the celebrations, it’s essential to recognise the potential impact of the festivities on skin and gut health. The bright pigments used during Holi can often contain harsh chemicals that may lead to dryness, irritation, and even rashes upon contact with the skin. Furthermore, prolonged exposure to the sun and dust during the festivities can aggravate these effects, leaving skin vulnerable to damage and the body to severe dehydration.

Traditional delicacies served during this time can disrupt the gut flora. Furthermore, excessive indulgence in fried and sugary treats can lead to various issues, ranging from skin problems to digestive discomfort. You can embrace the festivities by taking a few simple precautions while protecting your gut and skin health. Here are five essential tips to help you easily navigate the colourful celebrations.

Prioritise Hydration: Holi colours can be harsh on your skin and digestive system. Ensure you drink plenty of water throughout the day to flush out toxins and keep your body hydrated. Coconut water is an excellent choice as it replenishes electrolytes lost through sweat and provides essential minerals like potassium and magnesium, which aid in maintaining fluid balance.

Embrace Probiotics: Indulging in traditional Holi delicacies can disrupt your gut flora. Incorporate probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kombucha, or probiotic supplements into your diet to maintain a healthy gut balance and support digestion. Probiotics help replenish the beneficial bacteria in your gut, promoting overall digestive health and preventing issues like bloating, discomfort, and irregularity.

Protect Your Skin: Applying a thick layer of cold cream, coconut oil, or almond oil before playing with colours can create a protective barrier for your skin. Opt for natural, skin-friendly colours, and avoid those containing harsh chemicals, lead, or heavy metals. After the festivities, gently cleanse your skin with a mild soap or face wash to remove any residual colour. Follow up with a soothing, fragrance-free moisturizer to replenish your skin’s natural oils.

Boost Your Antioxidant Intake: Indulge in colourful fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants, such as berries, citrus fruits, leafy greens, and carrots. Antioxidants help neutralise free radicals and support skin health, reducing the risk of inflammation, premature aging, and skin damage caused by exposure to colours and sun. Foods like tomatoes, bell peppers, and sweet potatoes are excellent sources of antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene.

Practise Mindful Indulgence: While it’s tempting to overindulge in traditional Holi sweets and savouries, moderation is key. Opt for healthier alternatives like roasted makhanas, trail mixes, or fresh fruits. Excessive consumption of fried and sugary foods can lead to digestive issues like bloating, indigestion, and even gut inflammation. Additionally, these foods can contribute to skin problems like acne and rashes or aggravate conditions like eczema or psoriasis.

In case of any pre-existing conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, food allergies, or chronic skin disorders, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional before participating in Holi celebrations. Preventive care during Holi is not just about protecting yourself on the day of the festival but also about preparing your body beforehand and supporting its recovery afterwards.

Dr. Gowri Kulkarni
Bengaluru

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Spiritually, mantra meditation intensifies concentration and mends memory and attention. Substantially, mantra meditation reduce heart rate and BP and provides relaxation, hence heals and rejuvenate. Mantra meditation boosts self-confidence and self-empowerment. It also minimise the stress and balance emotions. Spiritually, mantras are said to dissolve one’s bad karma, produce Jnana (wisdom) and are considered one of the many yogic paths towards selfrealization.

Japa is the meditative chanting of a Mantra or a godly name. It consists of the repetition of the same mantra, which can be composed of a single syllable (Om) or a string of mantric sounds (Om Namah Shivaya). As Patanjali prompts us, the yogic path is pushed by practice and dispassion, and meaningfully, the Sanskrit term for training— abhyasa—meaning “repetition”.  Mantra Japa produces positive mental tracks. It is a powerful method for directing the mind and for yoking the body/mind’s understated energies in finishing the yogic path of self-transformation.

Mantras have transformative power and  energy:

Mantras have transformative power. They shield the mind by calling upon and growing uplifting Energy. Billions of society from all walks of life have resorted to meditation to respite from nervousness, pessimism and dejection. “Mantra” has  “man” means “mind” or “to think” & “tra” means “instrument” or “vehicle.” Thus a mantra can be defined as a “vehicle of the mind,” “thought instrument” or “that which when replicated upon brings freedom.” Mantras are measured to have distinct powers to renovate our mind, body and spirit.

Beginners have to start Japa meditation with Japamala. A Japamala or mala is a string of prayer beads usually used by many religion followers spiritually. It is typically made from 108 beads. Japamala are used for keeping count while reciting, chanting, or mentally repeating a mantra or the name or names of God.

Japamala can be composed of a different materials—wood, seeds, pearls, stones and ivory. The most widely used materials are Sandalwood, Rudraksha seeds, Tulsi seeds (holy basil), Lotus seeds (Kamalaxhi), Rosewood, Pearls and Crystal.

Accurate mode of using mala is with the right hand. Ring finger supports the mala, middle finger helps to movement of beads slowly and steadily, and thumb supports and stabilises the bead from falling down. One bead is moved with one “Nama smarana”, and this is continued for 108 beads. Sumeru, or Guru Bead is the 109th bead. Counting always begins with a bead next to sumeru

In the Vedic tradition, if more than one mala of repetitions is to be done, one changes directions when reaching the sumeru rather than crossing it. As index finger signifies ego, it should not be used in the complete process of Japa. Once the process is complete, the Japamala should be preserved in Japa mala bag. It should be kept separately, and not to be worn frequently.

Early morning – Brahmi Muhurtha – 4.00 am to 6.00 am will be an ideal time for Japa meditation. After resting for whole night body gets rejuvenated.  Fresh up and sit in comfortable position (Padmasana), in front of Isthadevatha to begin Japa meditation. Find a comfortable yet well-aligned position for meditation.

Eyes are kept open or gently closed throughout Japa meditation with a soft gaze. The breath should be slow, deep and relaxed. Keep mind focused on the mantra.

Medical benefits of Japa meditation:

To get benefits of Japa meditation, first do Pranayama – regulate the breath, and then start Japa meditation. Focus on breath, one can notice cool air while breath in and warm air while breath out.

It is scientifically proved that Chanting has Medical benefits. In 1979, A main hospital in Barcelona invited Swami Niranjanananda for help, to ease anxiety before surgery and reduced dose of anaesthetics during surgery. Swami Niranjanananda directed Japa Meditation for 20 minutes , for 25 patients before surgery, hospital authorities found surprising result – there was an increased alpha activity of brain, heart has come down, blood pressure has become normal, and anaesthetics given during surgery was only 50% of regular dose.

Till date they are directing their patients before surgery to go with Japa Meditation. They also recorded that the recovery time was reduced. During Japa Meditation medical scientists have found out formation of Nitric oxide in nose and nasal cavity, formation of colony stimulating factor and Secretion of Melatonin,  Endorphins, and Vagus nerve Stimulation.

1. Nitric oxide relaxes the smooth muscles present around blood vessels; vessels are dilated and supply more oxygen and nutrients to each and every cell of the body. Hence functioning of cells improves. Cells take more oxygen and nutrition and function fully and if injured they heal well, and at the same time accumulated metabolites (Toxins) are thrown out of them.

2. Colony stimulating factor stimulates the bone marrow to yield more immunity like Neutrophils, Macrophages, Natural Killer cells, T Lymphocytes, and B Lymphocytes, to fight with disease generating organisms, cancer creating cells and ageing cells. Therefore individuals will not suffer from diseases, cancers and old age problems. He feels young and energetic.

3. Melatonin is wonderful neurotransmitter. Today collective problem is insomnia, nervousness, depression, and negative thoughts. Melatonin induces good and deep sleep, when person gets up from bed, he will be more relaxed, cheerful and enthusiastic to do daily routines.

4. Endorphins are natural analgesics, a good pain killer. Pain in joints, muscles, abdomen, and any part of the body, endorphins will relieve the pain and brings happy mood to the person.

5. Vagus nerve handles heart, lungs and all organs in stomach. All organs become slow, steady and functions well.

Dr K Hanumanthayya
Dermatologist

The post Meditation Benefits: How JAPA meditation supports healthy living? appeared first on Health Vision.

Product Description:
“Gruha Suraksha Shodashanga Dhoopa” is a meticulously crafted blend comprising pure Desi cow ghee, naturally hived honey, and a mix of 16 rare specified herbs. This product has been scientifically validated as an exceptional aid for rituals, fostering optimal living conditions and generating profound vibrations at your home / office.

Background:
Developed by Ayush Arogya Foundation, this product draws from the traditional Indian medicinal systems of Ayurveda and Siddha, embodying divine and spiritual attributes. The ingredients used align with ancient scripts and traditions, emphasizing the necessity of natural and pure elements to instigate energy vibrations. In contrast to commercialized and manipulated alternatives prevalent in the market, this Dhoopa remains authentic, devoid of artificial substances.

Features and Benefits:

• Natural Composition: Crafted solely from natural ingredients—pure ghee, organic honey, and a blend of 16 herbs.
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Ingredients:
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How to Use:
• Prepare the Cone: Fill the Dhoopa powder into the provided cone mould and gently press it.
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• Lighting Instructions: Ignite the tip of the cone for a minute, then extinguish the flame.

Product Details:
Type: Premium Dhoopa Shodashanga Powder
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Purchase Information:
Please contact: 81975 54373 / 98440 60592.

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Deepavali is a very important festival celebrated in India. Deepavali means “row of lights”. That is why Deepavali is called the festival of lights. Deepavali also means awakening the inner light i.e. the light of Jnana.

Deepavali is said to be the celebration of victory of Rama over Ravana and reaching Ayodhya. It is also the day of God Krishna killed Narakasura. Therefore, the destruction of evil and the celebration of virtue is the symbol of Deepavali.

In most places, Deepavali is celebrated by the household members by cleaning their homes, decorating them with lights, prayers, and enjoying sweets.

But these practices are not limited to mere likes. These practices are religiously, ideologically, socially important and beyond this the principles of health are incorporated in our practices. According to the time, food required by the body, achara and vihara (work to be done), the basic principles of Ayurveda have been implemented in the form of rituals. Necessary health formulas are incorporated in the form of ritual in accordance with the constant changes in the climate.

Celebration

A five-day celebration, Deepavali begins on the 13th day of Krishna Paksha in the month of Ashwini and ends on the second day of Shukla Paksha in the month of Kartika. During these days i.e. the end of Ashwini month and the beginning of Kartika month, it is the time of transition from one month to another and there is a great change in the weather. Cold, windy and wet weather begins in the atmosphere. So Vata gradually increases during this period. These changing weather conditions leads to changes in the human body and mind and disturb the balanced vata of the body.

Therefore, all the rituals and traditions of Deepavali are adapted to alleviate Vata Dosha and balance the imbalances in the body.

Traditionally Deepavali is celebrated by waking up at Brahma Muhurta, performing oil abhyaya, bathing, wearing new clothes, puja, prayers, lighting sesame lamps in the evening and serving sweet meals to the household.

Waking up at Brahma Muhurta

Ayurveda tells waking up at Brahma Muhurta, although Brahma Muhurta varies from region to region, approximately 2 Muhurtas before sunrise i.e. 1 and half hours before sunrise is called Brahma Muhurta. Sattvic energy is at its highest in nature during this period, giving pleasure to my mind. Increases mental concentration and calms the mind. During this period, Apana Vayu, which aids in the excretion of faeces and urine, is quickened and naturally expelled from the body. This is a great time for health and spiritual fulfilment.

Appetizer

Oils prepared from medicinal herbs and sesame seeds are heated and are usually said to be used as a condiment for the body. Sesame seeds are rich in astringent and thermal properties, and the herbal oil processed with them provides special health benefits. Reduces coldness and roughness of vata dosha, reduces mental tension, calms nervous system, promotes sleep. It nourishes the body and gives radiance to the skin.

Bathing

A hot bath is best. Hot water bath increases the blood circulation of the body, reduces body fatigue, fatigue, appetite, improves digestion. Using medicated bath powders instead of soaps can help retain the skin’s natural moisture, cleanse the skin, and rejuvenate the skin.

Special foods

Deepavali special sweets are also in accordance with Ayurvedic principles. Sweets, fried snacks are specially prepared on Deepavali. Atirasa (Kajjaya), Parmanna, Payasa, and fried items prepared from ingredients like coconut, rice, jaggery, sesame, ghee, chickpea flour, milk, etc. have special viscous (greasy) quality, which helps to reduce excess moisture in the body and atmosphere and increase the necessary viscosity. Ayurveda advises to eat sweet, sour, hot and sticky foods during this time.

 Deepavali Lehya

Many regions of South India have a tradition of consuming special lehya made from medicinal herbs on Deepavali. This lehya is called Deepavali lehya.

Lehya made with dry ginger, black pepper, cumin, coriander, hippali, garlic, nutmeg and ghee is consumed after oil bath on the festival day. During this time of change of seasons, cold starts, many infectious diseases start and digestive power decreases. So consumption of this lehya is advised to be consumed as tradition. Many diseases can be prevented by consuming this lehya. Improves immunity, good taste, digestion and relieves indigestion and stomach disorders. It also helps to easily digest the food eaten excessively during Deepavali festival.

Lighting the lamp

Deepavali is special by lighting the lamp. Light is a symbol of purity, auspiciousness, knowledge and power. So the significance of this is to apply knowledge as light against darkness and ignorance. It is said that in northern India, Lord Rama reached Ayodhya on the day of Amavasya after his victory, so people celebrated by lighting lamps.

Since there is no light on the day of Amavasya, and negative energy increases in the atmosphere during this time, lamps are lit outside every house before winter begins. Especially lighting a sesame oil lamp purifies the polluted atmosphere and warms the environment.

Ayurveda prescribes Panchakarma treatment to cleanse the body, mind, senses and emotions of constant unnecessary toxins, negative emotions and mental stress if the external cleansing of the body is done by bathing, Abhyanjanadi.

In the eara of mechanical life, the body does not purify itself. The mind is overstimulated by mental stress, anxiety, negative thoughts. Without body and mind purity there can be no mind or self-purity. Spiritual energy is necessary to be healthy, so on the festival day, worship, mantra, japa, discourse and spiritual meditation can be used to develop mental peace, spiritual energy and get the benefits of perfect health.

Thus, health formulas are included in our rituals and Deepavali festival is important from the point of view of health beyond religious, social and ritual.

Dr. Mahesh Sharma M.
Sri Dharamsthal Manjunatheshwar Ayurvedic Hospital
Mysore Road, Anchepalya, Bengaluru
Ph.: 9964022654
drsharmamysr@gmail.com

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The Varamahalakshmi festival is a significant and auspicious Hindu celebration that holds a special place in the hearts of devotees, particularly in the southern regions of India. Celebrated on the second Friday of the month of Shravana, which usually falls in August, this festival is dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi, the divine consort of Lord Vishnu and the bestower of wealth, prosperity, and well-being. While the festival primarily focuses on seeking the blessings of the goddess for material abundance, it also carries a deeper significance related to health and well-being.

Spiritual Well-being and Mental Health:

The Varamahalakshmi festival encourages individuals to embrace spiritual practices and engage in acts of devotion. Engaging in rituals like performing puja (prayer), offering flowers and fruits, and participating in community celebrations can have positive effects on mental well-being. Such practices can help reduce stress, anxiety, and negative emotions, promoting mental clarity and emotional balance.

Community Bonding:

The festival brings families and communities together to celebrate and offer prayers. This sense of togetherness and communal harmony can contribute to emotional well-being. Interacting with friends, relatives, and neighbours during the festival can create a supportive environment that positively impacts mental health.

Healthy Dietary Practices:

During the Varamahalakshmi festival, offerings of various fruits and sweets are made to the goddess and later distributed as prasadam (blessed food). The inclusion of fruits and sweets in the festive diet encourages the consumption of natural sugars, vitamins, and minerals, promoting better health and nutrition.

Fasting and Detoxification:

Many devotees observe fasting on this day as a mark of their devotion. Fasting can have potential benefits for the digestive system by giving it a break from regular consumption. This temporary detoxification can aid in better digestion, improved metabolism, and toxin elimination from the body.

Prayer and Positive Affirmations:

The act of prayer during the festival involves expressing gratitude and seeking blessings for health and happiness. Positive affirmations and prayers are known to have a beneficial impact on mental outlook, fostering a positive mind-set that can contribute to overall well-being.

Cultural and Emotional Enrichment:

Engaging in cultural practices and traditions during the festival fosters a sense of belonging and cultural identity. This emotional enrichment can have a positive effect on mental health, promoting a feeling of connection and purpose.

also read: Spiritual Health  – Health Vision

In conclusion, the Varamahalakshmi festival is not just about seeking material wealth, but also encompasses various aspects that promote health and well-being. From spiritual practices and community bonding to healthy dietary habits and physical activity, the festival offers a holistic approach to enhancing one’s overall wellness. By incorporating these elements into their celebration, devotees can experience both spiritual and physical benefits that contribute to a balanced and fulfilling life.

Shrikrishna M

Editor, Health Vision & Vydyaloka

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How do Tarot Cards work?

The tarot is a deck of 78 cards, each having a unique image, symbol, and narrative. The 56 minor cards of the Arcana portray daily challenges and hardships, while the 22 cards represent karmic and spiritual talents of life. Tarot card readings entail shuffling the deck, selecting a card, and displaying other cards to represent the difficulties and challenges you can encounter while carrying out a specific activity. Every Tarot card resembles a painting with bits of allusion, history, drama, and myth.

These tarot readings offer a pictorial portrayal of your soul’s trip of life, which discover both material and spiritual. Tarot is a qualitative study hence a reader of Tarot Cards needs to be in sync with the cards to form an accurate reading. Tarot is a spiritual guidance tool that enables people to read and connect with their inner wisdom; It does not predict the future. Tarot readings assist people in learning the information they require regarding a specific circumstance. As reading gives a person a summary of past, present, and future events based on their current life, decks are ideal as a tool of inner intelligence and direction.

Tarot cards can help a person understand the present situation and choose the best course of action, but they do not always predict what will happen in the future. The tarot card workshops and sessions at Make Me Pure educate you on how to perform and carry out these sessions on yourself. Our team includes skilled medical professionals, psychiatrists, therapists, caring coaches, and wellness specialists. They have the training and experience to help people live healthy, fulfilling lives, which gives clients satisfaction and dependability.

Tarot card reading is not just about predicting the future, but rather a tool for introspection and self-discovery. The card’s innermost thoughts, feelings, and beliefs influence our lives. Through the symbolism and archetypes in the deck, a tarot reading can help us gain clarity, guidance, and a deeper understanding of ourselves and our circumstances. It’s a powerful way to access our intuition and connect with the universal energy. Tarot reading is a journey of self-exploration, where the cards act as a guide to help us navigate life’s challenges and discover our true path.

Gurpreet Arora

Founder, Make Me Pure

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Maha Shivaratri is a Hindu festival celebrated annually in honor of God Shiva. There is a Shivaratri in every luni-solar month of the Hindu calendar, on the month’s 13th night/14th day in the Krishna paksha (waning Moon). But once a year in late winter (February/March, or Magha masa) and before the arrival of summer, marks Maha Shivaratri which means “the Great Night of Shiva“. Out of the 12 Shivaratris in a year, Maha Shivaratri is considered to be the most auspicious one.

Most Hindu festivals are celebrated during the day; the Mahashivaratri is celebrated at night. The Mahashivaratri is celebrated with full sincerity, strict spiritual discipline and earnest feelings, chanting prayers, fasting, and being awake all night and meditating on good virtues like Self-restraint, honesty, forgiveness and discovery of Lord Shiva. The Mahashivaratri marks a remembrance of “overcoming darkness and ignorance”. Mahashivaratri celebrations includes:

1. Chanting “Om Namah Shivaya”   

2. Fasting – an all-night fasting

3. Offering fruits, Bhel leaves, sweet and milk

4. Jaagaran – an all-night vigil and prayer

What Puranas tell about Mahashivaratri?

Puranas contain many stories and legends describing the origin of this festival and the relation with Lord Shiva.

Samudra Manthan & Shiva drinks Haalaa-Hala:  

Samudra Manthan – Devathas and Asuras joined together to churn the Kshirasagara, the ocean of milk. Mount Mandara was used as churning rod and Vasuki, a Nagaraja as churning rope. Lord Vishnu supported the Mount Mandara on his back in the form of Tortoise (Kurma avatara). Devathas and Asuras joined together and placed the Mount Mandara on the back of Tortoise as churning spindle (rod) and Vasuki serpent as churning rope coiled around the mountain and started pulling back and forth of the serpent body and churning the Kshirasagara.

During churning, a pot of Haalaa-Hala (poison) emerged, the fumes of Haalaa-Hala started destroying the World, Devathas and Asuras. Devathas and Asuras could not bear the terrifying effect of Haalaa-Hala; they prayed Lord Shiva to protect them and whole World from Haalaa-Hala effect. Lord Shiva took the pot and drank the Haalaa-Hala, thus protected everyone. Goddess Parvati pressed the throat of Shiva firmly; Haalaa-Hala got stuck in throat, turning the throat to blue color.

Entire night Devathas and Asuras were anxious to know, what will happen to Lord Shiva.  Lord Shiva was able to retain the Haalaa-Hala in throat, from that day till today; hence Shiva is also called “Neelakanta” or “Vishakanta”. This dreadful night is today’s Mahashivaratri. Hence we pray Lord Shiva on this day for protecting entire World.

According to Shiva purana, Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu started fighting with each other, to prove their superiority over other. When the fight became fierce and violent Lord Shiva appeared as huge column of fire between Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu, awestruck by this column of fire, both decided to find one end each to prove their supremacy. Lord Vishnu took the Varaha avatar (Pig) and started digging the ground 100s of kilometer; yet he could not reach the bottom. Lord Vishnu accepted his inability to reach bottom. Lord Brahma took the form of Swan and started flying 100s of kilometer upwards, yet he also could not reach the top, but he saw Ketaki flower was slowly coming down from the top.

Lord Brahma asked the Ketaki flower “where are you coming from?” Ketaki replied, “I was offered on the top of this huge fire column, and could not bear the heat, hence I am coming down”. Lord Brahma was tired and thought to take ketaki as a witness, and told everyone that he had reached the top of the column of fire. But Lord Shiva revealed his true form and cursed Lord Brahma, “no one will ever worship you”. He also banned Ketaki flower for being used for offering during puja. It was on the 14th day of the month of Phalguna, Shiva first manifested himself in the form of a Linga. So this day is especially auspicious and is celebrated as Mahashivaratri. Worshipping Shiva on this day is believed to bestow one with happiness and prosperity.

Story of Lubdhaka:

According to one legend in the Shiva purana, Lubdhaka was poor tribal man and devotee of Lord Shiva. To collect firewood he went to forest, and he lost his way back to home. He started hearing roaring sounds of forest animals as the darkness increased. He was scared and climbed nearby tree for shelter and safety. He was afraid that he may doze and fall from tree and wild animals may kill him. He decided to stay awake till morning, hence he started Chanting “Om Namah Shivaya” and pluck one leaf from that tree and throw it down. Till morning he was chanting Om Namah Shivaya and every time, he was plucking one leaf from tree and throwing it down. Morning he climbed down of the tree, to see the tree was Bel tree; he has put 1000 Bel leaves on Shiva-Linga. Lord Shiva was pleased with Lubdhaka, for his whole night Jaagaran, chanting Om Namah Shivaya, and worshipping with Bel leaves. Shiva rewarded Lubdhaka with divine blessings. All devotees on Mahashivaratri hear this story and they also worship Shiva-Linga.

Another fascinating legend links Lord Shiva with the “Pralay“. Pralay, in Hindu mythology, means the day when “shrishti” (creation) and “Brahmaand” (the Cosmos) is destroyed by the fury of Nature. It is said that the whole world was facing destruction at one point and Goddess Parvati prayed to her husband Lord Shiva to save the “Jivas” (living souls), remaining in space, during the long period of pralaya. She also desired that the Lord bless them to be active again, if they worship him. Her prayer was granted. Parvati named the night of her wish-fulfillment as Maha-Sivaratri, or the great night of Shiva, and ordered mortals to observe this night as a time to worship Lord Shiva.

The legend of Chitrabhanu:

The king Chitrabhanu of Ikshvaku dynasty was observing fast and praying Lord Shiva along with his queen and entire kingdom. The renowned sage Ashtavakra and his pupils came on a visit to kingdom. He learns that entire kingdom, queen and king all are fasting and praying Lord Shiva. The sage Ashtavakra asked the king the reason for fasting and praying Lord Shiva. The king Chitrabhanu replied, “I have the gift of remembering the incidents of my past birth. In my past life I was hunter, catching birds and animals in forest and selling them in town. One day while catching birds, it became late night, and I started hearing roaring sounds of animals. For my safety I climbed nearby bel tree. To keep awake I started plucking bel leaves and started throwing on the Shiva-Linga, at the same time my water tumbler was leaking and water was falling directly on Shiva Linga. Morning I climbed down the tree and came to my house and sat for meals. Old man came to my doorsteps and asked for food. I gave all my food to him, the old man was pleased and showed his true form – Lord Shiva. He blessed me, for my rebirth as a ruler of this kingdom and also to remember the incidents of my past birth. Today I recall that old incident, now I want all my people to get blessings of Lord Shiva, by fasting, praying, and feeding all needy people on this holy day Maha Shivaratri”.

Maha Shivaratri is seen as the wedding anniversary of Lord Shiva’s marriage to the Goddess Parvati.

Medical benefits of Mahashivaratri celebrations:

Benefits of Chanting “Om Namah Shivaya”:

A disturbed mind has a tendency to think negative, whenever some untoward incidence happens. But regular Om Namah Shivaya chanting ensures positivity, even in dire circumstances. Reasoning ability improves and helps to take right and better decisions in difficult conditions. It also helps to distinguish between right and negative people and thus choose a positive group of friends. So there are immense health benefits of Om Namah Shivaya chanting. It is very much important to practice it perfectly under the guidance of an able teacher to get good results.

1. Helps to improve Concentration,

2. Reduces stress and Anxiety,

3. Gives strength to Spinal cord,

4. Rejuvenating and Pacifying,

5. Detoxifies body,

6. Improves functioning of Heart and Digestive system,

7. Ensures sound sleep,

8. Improves functioning of Reproductive system and development of womb and fetus,

9. Improves Reasoning ability and Reduces negativity.

Fasting – an all-night fasting:

1. Controls blood sugar by reducing insulin resistance.

2. Promotes better health by fighting inflammation. Some studies have found that fasting could decrease several markers of inflammation and may be useful in treating inflammatory conditions, such as joint pains, body aches, and headaches.

3. May enhance heart health by improving blood pressure, triglycerides and cholesterol levels.

4. May boost brain function and prevent neurodegenerative disorders. Studies show that fasting could improve brain function, increase nerve cell synthesis and protect against neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s, and memory loss.

5. It helps in weight loss by limiting calorie intake and boosting metabolism.

6. Studies show that fasting can increase human growth hormone (HGH), which is an important protein hormone that plays a role in growth, metabolism, and weight loss and muscle strength. It could delay aging and extend longevity. Ghrelin is a hormone produced by the stomach (Hunger hormone). Ghrelin increases appetite and stimulates the release of growth hormone.

7. Animal studies have found that fasting could delay aging and increase longevity, but human research is still lacking.

8. May aid in cancer prevention and increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy. Some animal and test-tube studies suggest that fasting could block tumor development and increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy.

8. “The literal definition of fasting is to abstain from food and drink from a specific period of time; it’s been around for thousands of years, as spiritual fasting is a part of many religions”. Mahashivaratri fasting is for 24 hours. Those who are practicing can continue fasting. Those who want to start fasting first time, should take guidance of family physician. They should be well hydrated (drink sufficient quantity of water). In case of health issues, they can eat normal food and discontinue fasting.

9. Jaagaran – an all-night vigil and prayer: Maha Shivaratri is celebrated when winter pass across spring. The humans have to adjust the body physiology as they are easily influenced to lung and respiratory infections. Staying awake on the whole night and reciting powerful Vedic mantras will help in charging with the infrared energies which acts as a medicine for the seasonal changes.

Bhel leaves:

The bhel tree appears in Shri Shuktam of Rig Veda, which revers this plant as the residence of goddess Lakshmi. Bhel trees are usually seen near and inside Shiva temples. The bhel leaves are “Trifoliate” means they are arranged in 3s. Traditional Hindus believe that, each leaf represents Tridevas – Brahma, Vishnu and Maheswara. Bhel leaves contain chemical compounds, Furocoumarins, Flavonoids. The bilva leaves are the preventive medicine for respiratory diseases and cardiac problems. By inhaling the smell we are connected to aroma therapy. Bhel tree is popularly called as wood apple, golden apple, and botanical name is “Aegle Marmelos”.

Dr K Hanumanthayya, Bengaluru   

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Vedic meditation has origins in the ancient body of knowledge, in Sanskrit known as Vedas. This 6 000-year-old technique was passed on between priests in a form of oral narrative. What differs this ancient practice from other forms of meditation is mantra. It is a mind-vehicle which helps people who practice Vedic meditation to self transcend to a deeper level of consciousness. This allows our body to have deep rest.

Vedic meditation instructors teach students how to use mantra in a gentle, innocent way without effort. This makes Vedic meditation unique in comparison to other techniques. This practice is meant for people who are not monks, and is suitable for our modern lifestyle, technique is effortless and natural to practice. Other forms of meditation are more for monks. These people are devoting their lives to meditation. For us, who have work to do, to take care of our kids and pay a mortgage, it is necessary to have a meditation practice which will suit our working schedule. That’s the difference between Vedic meditation and other meditation techniques like open monitoring practice or focus meditation

There are dozens of meditation categories, but all can be splitted in these three disciplines:

• Self-transcendent style of meditation/Vedic meditation or Nishkam Karma Yoga/Transcendental meditation
• Open monitoring practice/Mindfulness
• Focus meditation/Vipassana

A lot of research has been done on Vedic meditation in the last twenty years, and results have shown that this kind of meditation provides many health benefits. We meditate to calm our minds and to provide deep rest to our bodies. This practice impacts our mental health, inflammation, chronic disease, pain, insomnia, and our lifespan in general.

There are few people who can say that they don’t feel worried in some way. Anxiety, depression, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases are on the rise. Besides covid, 80% of hospital visits are related to stress. If we can manage our stress levels, we will have the opportunity to live a healthier and happier life.

1. Reduced Anxiety

Vedic meditation is a stress relief tool. New studies report a significant reduction of stress chemicals in people who practice this ancient technique.

Brain imaging shows certain changes in brain structure after only three months of practicing meditation. It is noticed an increased amount of gray matter in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. The prefrontal cortex is the center of cognitive function and has a crucial role in decision making. At the same time, brain imaging shows a shrinking of our amygdala, the fear center. This can explain the reported anxiety reduction in people who practice Vedic meditation.

Meditation allows deep rest. When we meditate our breathing and heart rate are slower, which  provides body regeneration and regulation of blood pressure. As a consequence, we have better blood flow to the brain. With time and practice, neuroplasticity occurs and we become more resilient to stress. So, if you practice Vedic meditation, you are not only providing immediate relief in a form of peace and blissful chemicals, but you are becoming more resilient to stress in the future.

2. Increased cognitive function

 Most of the meditators reported increased productivity. Meditation practice provides rest as a base for our further action. When you are rested, you feel refreshed, energized, and ready to act whether it’s your job, other work, playing with your children or having some fun with your partner and friends.

Meditation improves working memory and hippocampus. This can explain why meditators are good at multitasking. Neuroscientists reported that doing this particular practice, we simultaneously activate left and right brain hemispheres, and as a consequence we have a thicker corpus callosum. This corpus callosum represents the communication bridge between the left and right parts of the brain.

The left part of the brain is in charge of the past and the future and represents our critical mind, while the right brain is more responsible for creative thinking and being in the present moment. Researchers think that thicker corpus callosum can be a consequence of neuroplasticity which occurs with long-time meditation practice.

When we are stressed we are using more critical than creative thinking. That’s why many artists, world-leading innovators, and entrepreneurs practice Vedic meditation. It helps them to balance critical and creative thinking. Meditation makes it easier for us to recognize our authentic needs, to hear our inner voice and intuition. When we are stressed, we are in a fight or flight, and the brain is looking for dangers in our environment. With regular practice, we are lowering our stress chemicals, which helps us to increase our creativity, intuition and compassion.

3. Prevents Insomnia

Insomnia is a common problem these days; almost 40% of the US population suffers from sleep problems and 70% are sleep-deprived. One of the main reasons for insomnia is chronic stress. When we go to bed at night, our mind starts thinking backward and forward, running to the past or future. In meditation, this is known as monkey mind.

With Vedic meditation, our stress chemicals can be lower by 30 to 40%. This is a significant drop that impacts not just the amygdala in our brain, but our sleeping hormone as well. When we have a regular meditation practice, our body is at rest, and that allows our central nervous system to regenerate. As a consequence of that, we can fall asleep faster. This is why Vedic meditation has beautiful healing properties providing our body not only with regeneration during meditation practice but makes our sleeping time more restorative with more deep sleep and fewer awakenings during the night. As the Dalai Lama said :“Sleep is the best meditation”.

Many meditators report better sleep quality but shorter sleeping time. For example, instead of eight or more hours of sleep, people who have regular meditation practice sleep around six to seven hours at night. This breaks the general opinion that we don’t have time to meditate. Opposite to that, meditation provides more productive time for us.

Also Read: 10 Point Recommendation for a Healthy Sleep

4. Chronic pain and inflammation

Chronic pain can have different causes, from muscle weakness, vitamin D deficiency, unnatural body postures, and stress. Vedic meditation not only controls your stress levels but significantly reduces inflammation. Studies show lower inflammation markers after regular meditation practice. In this way, we don’t just treat symptoms of disease but its causes.

Some studies suggest that long time meditators have the same sensitivity to pain as non-meditators, but they are less distracted by pain. That provides them the ability to do their regular activity more effectively despite the pain.

5. Longer lifespan

According to the Nobel Prize winner Ph.D. Elizabeth Blackburn, meditation can regulate our heart rate variability and maintain the length of our telomeres that are the protective ends of our chromosomes. It is shown that people with chronic stress have shorter telomeres, which can lead to chronic illness, inflammation, cancer, and a poor quality of life. Chromosomes keep our genetic material under control. This helps proteins that read our genes to decode  genes and give genetic information to our cells. New research shows that if our cells don’t get necessary information from a specific gene, they lose their function and that is the cause of aging.

In one study, women who had children with chronic disorders had shorter telomeres than others. Professor Blackburn noticed that one particular community of mothers with ill children didn’t have these accelerated shortening of telomeres. The reason for these long healthy telomeres was a different view of the problem, more as a challenge and not as an inevitable destiny.

The Nobel Prize winner did research on meditation and stress. She reported that mindfulness and Vedic meditation lowers our stress levels and regulates heart rate variability. Study suggested that meditation can make us resilient to stress and it can have a great impact on telomere length.

With meditation which could increase our feel-good chemicals our telomeres can be well preserved and our body protected from premature aging.

Mantra

Vedic meditation has Beeja mantras or seed mantras. When a teacher gives you a sound or a mantra and teaches you how to use it easily and effortlessly, the mantra will subtly become more natural to you. Mantra doesn’t have meaning, it is a primordial sound. Simple sounds of nature like water waves, wind, or some natural noise transformed into two-syllable Sanskrit words. This sound will be given to a student by a Vedic meditation teacher in a private ceremony. This tradition is old for thousands of years.

If the mantra has meaning, that would be more intellectual practice, which wouldn’t allow our body to have deep rest. That is because our mind is always in the process of thinking, and as you can’t command your nails to stop growing you can’t command your mind to stop thinking too. That’s why we use meaningless primordial sounds, which are relaxing and without active stimulation for our brains.

Vladimir Radovic

health and science writer/blogger

www.healthdna.me

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Indians are inheritors of a culture which integrated spirituality and science with great ceremony in the form of festivals. To bring the science and spirituality to life, the philosophical ideas (Vedas) were transformed into beautiful allegorical stories (Puranas). From these Puranas, festivals and traditions are developed to bring family and community together. Underlying it all is the human instinct of joy and happiness and remembrance of the principle of the victory of good over evil in the constant struggle between them.

Makara Sankranthi  in reference to God Surya (Sun):

Makara Sankranthi, also known as Makara Sankramana, Suggi Habba, Magha Mela, Maghi, Bhogi, Pongal, is a festival day in the Hindu calendar, in reference to God Surya (Sun). It is observed each year in January month. It marks the first day of sun’s transit into the Makara (Capricorn), marking the end of the month with the winter solstice (winter season) and the start of longer day’s summer solstice (summer season). The festival Makara Sankranthi is a solar event making it one of the few Hindu festivals which fall on the same date in local calendars every year: 14 January, with some exceptions, when the festival is celebrated on 15 January. 

Makara means crocodile, Sankranthi means to cross into or change. The Makara or crocodile represents the materialistic World and Sankranthi gives an opportunity to get away from the clutches of the crocodile or the materialistic World. Makara Sankranthi marks the transition of the Sun from Sagittarius (Dhanu Rashi) to the zodiac sign of the Capricorn (Makara Rashi).

In other countries too, the day is celebrated by Hindus, but under different names and in different ways like in Nepal – Khichdi Sankranthi, Bangladesh – Poush Sankranthi, and Pakistan – Tirmoori.  

Much before contemporary scientists came up with their observations of solar system a few hundred years ago, scholars of ancient India (5000 years ago) already knew that sun is the center of our celestial system and is the source of energy for all planets including our planet earth, which takes 365 days to revolve around the Sun. This complete cycle of 360 degree which is also called the solar calendar (1 year) is divided into 12 months (January to December) or zodiacs (12 Rashis – Sagittarius Dhanu Rashi to Capricorn Makara Rashi) of 30 degree each (360/12=30) and each zodiac is associated with certain characteristic depending on the positions of earth & sun in relative to each other, which in turn also determines the season & radiation patterns.

The zodiac months of the Sun from July to December witness decreasing sunlight, and after that, the subsequent zodiac months witness increase in sunlight. For an “observer”, it looks like the Sun is on a downward journey between July to December and this downward journey suddenly changes to upward journey or northward movement in late December and early January. Since uttara means northward and aayana means movement in Sanskrit, this phenomenon of phase reversal from southward movement to northward movement of the Sun is called “Uttara Ayana” or “Uttarayan” in short. The Surya Siddhanta defines Uttarāyaṇa or Uttarayan as the period between the Makara Sankranthi (which currently occurs around January 14) and Karka Sankranthi (which currently occurs around July 16) The Sun’s movement from northward to southward, from July to December is called “Dakshinayan”.

Hindus celebrate major cosmic changes, such as the transmigration of the sun from one zodiac sign (Rashi) to other zodiac sign (one month to next month) as Sankranthi.  Of the twelve Sankranthi (12 months), Makara Sankranthi on January 14th is the most significant; the sun passes through the winter season, from the Tropic of Cancer to the Tropic of Capricorn (Makara) summer season.  We witness cosmic, astronomical harmony and prayerfully honor this scientific Truth. The six months of northern movement of the sun is followed by six months of southern movement. The days are warmer and longer than nights.

This festival signifies the harvest of the season:

Sankranthi is the Suggi or harvest festival for farmers of Karnataka. On this auspicious day, all family members wear new clothes to visit near and dear ones with a Sankranthi offering in a plate and exchange the same with other families. This ritual is called “Ellu Birodhu.” Here the plate would normally contain “Ellu” (white sesame seeds) mixed with fried groundnuts, neatly cut dry coconut and fine cut bella (jaggery). The mixture is called “Ellu-Bella”. The plate contains shaped sugar candy moulds (Sakkare Acchu,) with a piece of sugarcane. There is a saying in Kannada “ellu bella thindu olle maathadi” that translates to “eat the mixture of sesame seeds and jaggery and speak only well.”

This festival signifies the harvest of the season, since sugarcane is predominant in these parts. Ellu Bella, Ellu Unde, bananas, sugarcane, red berries, haldi and kumkum and small gift items useful in everyday lives are often exchanged among women in Karnataka. In some parts of Karnataka, a newly married woman is required to give away bananas for five years to married women (muthaidhe/sumangali) from the first year of her marriage and increase the number of bananas in multiples of five. In north Karnataka, kite flying with community members is a tradition. Drawing rangoli in groups is another popular event among women during Sankranthi.

An important ritual is display of cows and bulls in colourful costumes in an open field. Cows are decorated for the occasion and taken on a procession. They are also made to cross a fire. This ritual is common in rural Karnataka and is called “Kichchu Haayisuvudu.”

Makara Sankranthi is celebrated in Kerala at Sabarimala where the Makara Jyothi is visible followed by the Makaravilakku celebrations. In Sikhism, Makara Sankranthi is celebrated as Maghi to pay homage to the forty Sikhs who sacrificed their lives to save Guru Gobind Singh when the Mughals came in search for the Guru.

1. It marks Uttaryana-the day of the Devta’s (GODs) whereas “Dakhsiyana” is the night of the GODs.

2. It is also said that Lord Surya visits his son Shani Deva on Sankranthi day, who is ruling Makara Rashi. It is believed those who so ever leave their body on this day attain Moksha or Liberation.

3. The great saviour of his ancestors, Maharaja Bhagirath, did great Tapasya to bring Gangaji down on the earth for the redemption of 60,000 sons of Maharaja Sagar, who were burnt to ashes at the Kapil Muni Ashram, near the present day Ganga Sagar (West Bengal). It was on this day that Bhagirath finally did tarpan with the Ganges water for his unfortunate ancestors and thereby liberated them from the curse.

4. In Mahabharata battle, Bhishma left this earth on this day. He had boon of iccha mrithu and he chose this auspicious day to depart from earth.

5. On this day, Devi Sankranthi killed the demon Sankrasura; hence this day is called Sankranthi. Next day Devi Sankranthi killed the demon Kinkrasura; hence this day is called Kinkranthi or Karidin.  

6. Lord Vishnu on this day take bath in Triveni Sangama, hence devotees take bath to get blessings of Lord Vishnu. People take bath in river in Ganges, Yamuna, Godavari, Kaveri and Krishna. Once in 12 year they celebrate Kumba mela, and devotees take bath in these river believing that God’s from heaven pour Amrutha in these rivers. It is believed that bathing in these holy rivers relieves oneself from past sins.

 Medical benefits of these traditions:

Ellu Birodhu, Kyte flying, Bath in holy rivers, Display of cows – Kichchu haisodhu, are some of the traditions of Sankranthi festival.

1. “Ellu Birodhu.” Here the plate would normally contain “Ellu” (white sesame seeds) mixed with fried groundnuts, neatly cut dry coconut and fine cut bella (jaggery).

2. Ellu – Sesame seeds – Sesame oil – Til oil is an edible vegetable oil, and Indians use it for traditional massaging of whole body. During winter season, body’s oil reserve is all exhausted; skin has become dry, flaky and itchy. Eating Ellu replenish oil reserve and, oil massage on the body, brings smoothness and suppleness to the skin. Skin looks attractive and flexible. Sesame oil contains mainly mixture of saturated and unsaturated oils. (Linoleic acid, oleic acid, palmatic acid, and stearic acid). It also contains vitamin E, and vitamin K. Eating Ellu helps body to get more energy health improves.

3. Groundnuts also called peanuts are excellent source of monounsaturated fats, polyunsaturated fats, saturated fats, rich source of minerals like magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, proteins and dietary fibre and vitamin B complex. Good for health.

4. Coconut oil contains high level of saturated fatty acids, vitamin E, vitamin K, Iron and phytosterols. Coconut oil is good for body massaging.  

5. Jaggery contains sucrose, give instant energy. It is also good source of calcium, iron and phosphorous.

6. Kite flying is also one of the traditions, early morning family members and friends go to open grounds and fly the kites and all will enjoy. Today we know that, early morning Ultra Violet Rays are mild and will have beneficial effect on the whole body. Vitamin D will be synthesized, thus help in strengthening of bones. Germicidal property of Ultra Violet Rays will remove germs from our body. Today most of the people fly the kite in evening.

7. River bath – people take bath in the early morning in running water, and pray Lord Surya. Running water will take away the dirt accumulated on the body, and while praying Lord Surya, Ultra Violet Rays will warm up the body and clean the body from germs.   

8. Giving gifts – people give gifts during Makara Sankranthi, and help poor people. Wealthy people give Ellu and Bella with cloths or utensils to needy people and poor.

9. Makara Sankranthi songs – In many parts of India, students go to community halls, respected citizen’s house and sing Makara Sankranthi songs. A community people gather around large open fire, night before Makara Sankranthi. They jointly sing songs, dance and welcome warm day in the morning (Lohri).

10. Kichchu Haayisuvudu – like humans cattle too had sufferings in winter season, hence are prepared to be ready for harvest by running them in warm fire.

Every traditional customs of Indians are scientific, today we are analysing them and accepting them as the best customs in World.

Dr K Hanumanthayya Bengaluru

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May be a great change is happening to the world.

Situation is Alarming !! Corona virus – India recorded nearly 50 delta plus variants ( The Hindu June 25 , 2021 ). The Delta variant significantly more transmissible strain of Covid 19 is expected to become a ‘ Dominant lineage ‘. It was reported in 85 countries. Delta is the one identified in India. The proportion of cases with variants of concerns had risen from 10.31 % in May 2021 to 51 % on 20th June 2021.

B 16173 , B 11318 , lambda , Kappa are the new variants. Expecting a 14 mutated variants for B 11318. Investigation on June 23 Kappa, another sibling of the delta variant too needs to be closely monitored. Lambda is yet to make its way into the country though it’s fast spreading across the the globe .

Siddha system of medicine:

Before the Aryans occupied the Sindhu region and Gangetic plain , there existed in the south on the banks of the rivers Cauvery , vagai , and thampirabharani , a civilisation which was highly organised .This civilisation had a system of medicine called Siddha system of medicine. According to historians Dravidian Race was the cult originated in South India . And this traditional medicine is a Nectar of Dravidian culture where Sage AGASTHYA and his disciples 18 SIDDHARS spreaded it across the planet .That is why southern peninsula is believed to be the ‘ cradle of Human Race ‘.

Siddha system includes 18 sastras . Naadi sastra , Marma Sootras, Ganitha sastra , Sankya philosophy , Astangayoga are some of the branches of siddha system of Medicine . Siddha vaidyam can be considered as the Mother of all medical systems. Thirumoolar , Bogarnathar , Thiruvalluvar Patanjali , Dhanwantari are few among the 18 siddhars.

Here I am discussing a different perspective about the spread of covid-19 and solution through Indian Vedic medical astrology and through the fundamental and basic principles of Siddha Vaidhya Sasthra. One may think why and how this deadly viruses are connected with Vedic astrology? Is it logic? Definitely yes, as far as Siddha Vaidya Sasthra is concerned.

Before discussing this chapter let me point out a fact that if you are into this profession dealing with the traditional system of medicines like Ayurveda and Siddha you please make sure that you are prepared to accept the whole theories and concepts as it is as a whole. Because these two giant systems were contributed by Rishi Paramparas what we call as Siddhars in Tamil , those who attained perfection or Siddhis.

Who all are Siddhars?

They were supernatural human beings. They were men of highly cultured intellectual spiritual faculties combined with super natural powers what we call as Ashtama Siddhis. Siddhars through their yogic and spiritual practices have attained great knowledge and experience about vatham, vaidhyam, Pranayamam meditation all comes under yogam.

And what’s Jnanam , it’s knowledge about almighty. And they were experts in astronomy. Through their inner visions they dealt with cosmos, the celestial bodies like earth, sun, moon, all the nine planets, galaxies. In short they perfectly defined the physical universe as a whole. Say for example, Aryabhata who is considered as one among the great Indian mathematician and an astronomer of all age.

At the age of 23 Aryabhata wrote a classical treatise named Aryabhatiyam in 449AD. Till this date Aryabhatiyam is considered as one of the holy book referred by all the astrophysists and geometrical mathematicians in our country. Hence our first satellite Aryabhata was named after him. Aryabhata and his vedantic followers like Brahmagupta and Bhaskaracharya they perfectly defined the rotation, revolution, angular velocity, the inclination , diameter of the earth and they perfectly calculated the distance between the celestial bodies through geometric and arithmetic progression.

Aryabhata in fact the first person who taught us that the Earth is round. It suspended in space. It has its own axis to rotate around the sun. This was thousand years before when Copernicus published his Heliocentric theory. His notable works were on solar eclipse lunar eclipse and he well-defined about the reflection of light by moon. Again you may wonder the relevance of astronomers like Aryabhatan and Brahmagupta in this covid era. Please don’t be judgemental. This is just an attempt to correlate the universe with our human body.

One among the 18 Siddhars named Sattaimuni in his book ‘Sattaimuni Jnanam’ says

” Andathil ullathe pindam
Pindathil ullathe andam
Andamum pindamum onre
Arinthuthaan paarkumpothe”

This could be translated as the things or elements found in the macrocosm is present in the microcosm. The things or elements found in the microcosm are found in the macrocosm . Microcosm and macrocosm are one and the same when the self realisation becomes complete. Here man is said to be the microcosm and the world, the universe around us is said to be the macrocosm. What exist in the macrocosm exist in the man and what exist in man it exist in the universe. Further the active force between the macrocosm and microcosm are one and the same. This age old theory said by Siddhars are correlated with the most modern space theories by ISRO and NASA.

The universe, we humans are made up of star dust:

According to the latest research said by the nuclear scientists and astrophysicists confirms that the cosmos, the galaxies, the universe are made up of star dust. What is a star dust? It’s well known as extra terrestrial dust or cosmic dust. The dust which we can see in the outer space and it’s below 0.1 micro mm. It consists mainly of elements like carbon nitrogen, hydrogen, oxygen, helium, silicates, magnesium etc…. In short universe is made up of 20 building blocks .

We humans, we all are made up of the same stardust as that of the universe. In a single human being we can see 20000 to 25000 genes. And if we cut down a gene we can see DNA and its structures. If we cut a DNA we can see the proteins and amino acids with the same building blocks, which means every organs are made up of different combinations of the same building blocks like carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus and sulphur. Researches says 92 to 93 percentage of elements which we find in the universe is found in the human body .

Even the stardust in the cosmic and water vapours, the rain, the clouds has connections. According to the latest theories said by astrophysicists stardust and the rain drops forms through a similar process called as swirling of dust particles. Siddhars through the Siddha science correlate our vital organs of our body with that of the planets in the universe.

The sun and moon influences our human body:

Heart is related to Sun, brain is related to Moon, lungs is related to Mercury, liver is related to Jupiter, kidney is related to Venus, gall bladder is related to Mars. In fact all the forces in the Cosmos acts in an abnormal manner to cause diseases in human body and it brings diseases on Earth. It highly influences the earth’s atmospheric conditions like earth quakes, flood, lightning, thunders, storms, tornadoes, forest fires etc.

The external air corresponds to our internal Vaayu, the external heat corresponds to our internal Agni (the digestive fire), the external water corresponds to our internal Kapha. Man consumes water and food and breath air to maintain a minimum temperature in our body. He is alive only because of the life force given by the space the Ether.

The Siddha system firmly believes that any change in the elementary conditions in the nature or the universe has its influence in the elementary conditions in our body through the process of Panchabootha Panjeekaranam. Universe and our human body made up of five elements like Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Space.

1. Prithvi bootha
2. Jala bootha
3. Agni bootha
4. Vayu bootha and
5. Aakaaya bootha.

The age old concepts by the Siddhars about the acting forces between the macrocosm and the microcosm can be easily correlated with the gravitational force between the celestial bodies. For example, the gravitational force exerted by the sun and moon can bulge the water in the ocean causing a continuous process between a higher and lower tide. At the same time the wheezing agravates in an asthma patient. Sun and moon both influences our ocean tides . But moon plays an important role than the sun because moon is so closer to our planet. This is the finest example to prove that gravitational pull exerted by the sun and moon influences our human body.

Jupiter – guru of all devas:

According to vedic astrology, the giant planet of our solar system, the Jupiter travels through three Rashiis with in an year. This is a rare phenomenon recorded before 793 years back. According to Vedic literature Jupiter is termed as Brihaspati or Wisdom or Guru of all Devas. With its enormous gravitational pull or mass, it plays a protective role by defending the comets and asteroids which might hit our planet Earth. Here Jupiter has created a stable environment for life to evolve here. Not only earth, Jupiter safeguards the other planets like Mercury Venus and Mars.

Vasundharayoga:

Jupiter travels through three Rashiis is termed as Vasundhara Yoga. In vedic literatures Vasundhara Yoga is well explained as ,

“Eka samvalsare jeeve
Thre raashi upaagathe
Sapthakodi Janaan hanthe
Loke bahu vinaashakrith”

That means, with in an year if Jupiter transits through three raashiis seven crores of species and humans will get affected. It’s a disaster for our Earth. 2/3rd of population in our country will vanish from the planet. Locust may fly, agriculture sector may colapse, people may die of hunger, unknown origin of diseases may happen (viral diseases, swine flu). This is what we call as Vasundharayoga.

Agnimaarutha yoga:

Next is Agnimaarutha yoga. There is a super conjunction between Mars and Saturn. Mars is agni and Saturn is Vaayu. It contains hydrogen and helium. What will happen when Agni and Vaayu comes together? When fire and air comes together it will explode like any thing. This might be the cause for the fire attacks which happened in Amazon forests, Australian forests and recently the Uttarakhand forests. This is what we call as Agnimaarutha yoga.

Kaalsarpa yoga:

Next is Kaalsarpa yoga. In Vedic literatures its clearly defined as..

“Raahu kethur duyar maddhye
Yatha sapthagrahasthithi
Kaalasarpakhya yogam
Loke bahu vinaashakrith”

There will be disasters like earth quakes, flood, tornadoes, weakening of dams, etc. According to Siddha Vaidya Shastra this is Navagraha dosha. There is a tripple conjunction between Mars, Saturn and Jupiter. There is a tripple conjunction between Kalasarpa Yoga, Vasundhara Yoga and Agnimaarutha yoga. Before yugas Siddhars in their treatise have clearly mentioned about this disaster.

In an article published in 2018 by the HODs of toxicology and forensic medicine of National Institute of Siddha, Tamil Nadu says that relevance of medical astrology on diagnosing a disease much earlier than it appears in the body. This article was published in an international journal of Jyothisha research. The aim of study was to bring the relevance of medical astrology in human life. Article concludes as Siddhars in that era, before yugas, used medical astrology as a diagnostic tool to predict the disease and to fix a treatment protocol for the patients.

Siddhars used medical astrology and pathology at the same point. They wrote treatise on many diseases that may occur in the Kaliyuga. In their vision if they can predict the diseases before yugas, there is no doubt that they would have written the remedies and solutions for these diseases also.

Is it a beginning of a new era?

When kaalachakra rotates important events or beginning of a new era can be observed in the Universe. After Dwapara Yuga , the KALIYUG started exactly on BC 3102 Feb.18 11:55 pm when there occurred a planet parade what we call Aries point in Astrology .All the nine planets lined up on the same plane , that was the moment KALIYUG has Begun.

After Vasundara Yoga in 2020 , GURUPURNIMA on July 4, 2020 there occurred the same Planet parade , May be a Beginning of a New Era in KALIYUG , Surprisingly Dec.21 st 2020 showed another rare event in history. That day the planet Jupiter and Saturn came in close connection after 800 years .

Great Saturn and Jupiter conjunction lights up on Dec 21 2021.The German astronomer Johannes Kepler wrote in 1614 that he believed the ‘ Star of Bethlehem ‘ may have been a conjunction of Jupiter n Saturn . All these signs including the changes in Betelguese star ( Thiruvathira Nakshatra ) in Orion constellation is a Big Treat for all astronomers all over the world right from 2017 to 2021.

The solutions and remedies for this disaster is also forseen by our siddhars …In my next part we will be discussing about the medicines to prevent Covid 19 permitted by Govt.of India with some Health Tips based on Siddha literatures to improve our immunity and will make sure that we are ready to Fight against COVID 19 .

May be a Great Change is happening to the world.
Lokah Samastha Sukhino Bavandhu.

Dr Renil Raj
Medical Officer – Siddha Unit
District Ayurveda Hospital
Padannakkad Kasaragod Dt
Kerala state
Email: punarjanisiddhaayurveda@gmail.com
Mob: 98473 43462

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