Tag: science

Biostrata continues ….. 3

iamdogstar1 Comment

From the beginnings of the Biostrata we are aware that Prana is the vital force, the ‘potential’ life force in everything and seeing as it is indeed  the first stratum it deems logical that the atomic, molecular and cellular strata all have prana manifesting in them.  Prana is capable of manifesting at various levels of mind and matter (all relativity dependant of the observer).  Thus, there is a predetermination of the development of pranic manifestation and progress within the natural laws imposed by ‘original design’ (the groupings, the selective process of atoms and molecules and cells) and is something that is predictable at every stage of development.  So when, at the cellular level of life, cells, eventually ‘die’, is this due to the cell running out of Prana? Atoms form molecules, molecules form cells and so forth in an ever upward development of pranic manifestation. There is the common logic of upward direction toward a higher stratum. However, as soon as no further progress is being made within development, or if atoms, molecules and cells fail to conform to their original design, then they are deemed to be ‘dead’ or inanimate and they will begin to break up and fall back downward through the lower strata. This activity denotes gradual deterioration. A cell will break up into molecules and then the molecules will separate into atoms and so it continues.  This could be nothing more than a re-cycling process whereby during ‘deterioration’ there is assessment of how much decline has taken place and if indeed some atoms and molecules can re-enter the upward development and further contribute to fresh material and life-form then so they shall.  When a cell ‘dies’ it does not mean all Prana has disappeared. The dying cell is merely reversing its direction of movement within the Biostrata. It has the capacity to regenerate.

Therefore it is interesting to observe here, how despite the ‘dying off’ of various components within the ‘life form’, whether they be cells, molecules or atoms, there is an ‘essential design’ maintained by the ‘ever upward’ progression of new components (prana, atoms, molecules, cells) coming up through the Biostrata (resulting from reproduction or selective attraction).  These are once again of original design, and are simply replacing those constituent parts whose term has expired and are in descent, possibly to be drawn again into circulation and ascend the Biostrata as new life-forms if their manifestation can regenerate, re-cycle itself.

Life, as we understand it, is an upward progress through the Biostrata and we should see that all development, progress and retrogression, manifestation, behaviour patterns and all intelligence are under direction of a Supreme Controlling Force. It is notwithstanding that everything in existence, whether it be an atom, a molecule, a cell, a human being or inanimate object, it has to make an upward progression through the Biostrata and has to conform to laws which emanate from the Supreme Controlling Force. Non-compliance of this will produce premature stagnation and deterioration because unless there is compliance with the laws of the supreme controlling force, whether by design or by accident, there can be no progress. Progress is Life in the generally accepted context. There is much opportunity for free expression at every level of the Biostrata, however this can only occur within the ‘essential design’ on the law of life.

Biostrata continued ….. 2

iamdogstar

The molecular stratum comes after the Pranic and Atomic stratum … basically, molecules are specialised groups of atoms.  Atoms arrange themselves into categories with each category applying specific characteristics having come together as an ‘expression’ of atomic intelligence (atomic characteristics are mainly determined by the number of electrons orbiting each nucleus), so there is always a selective process responsible in forming groups of atoms. This, in turn, relates to selective processes for grouping atoms into molecules. Molecular intelligence is therefore one level higher in intelligence than atoms but only due to the fact that molecular patterns of behaviour are far more complex than that of atoms and therefore selection processing is more intricate. Atoms will come together to form a molecule by use of interaction, producing a pattern of behaviour within a single molecule.  The molecule’s behaviour is mostly due to the atoms influencing each other by way of attraction or repulsion, so as to maintain equilibrium within a molecule’s precise structural arrangement. When molecules start their process of selection they are mainly extending the faculty of ‘atomic selectivity patterns’ within their formation.  The formation of molecules are but an extension of the same procedure as that of atoms, only more intricate, molecules are moving closer to the development of the human body.

Molecules unite to form living human cells.  The jump from molecules to living human cells is far greater than the jump from atoms to molecules but there are always firmly fixed ‘roots’ of the selectivity processes coming from the Atomic stratum. There are specialised groups of molecules to give us complete cells of every design – muscle, blood, bone, nerves. This development now shows us the growing complexity of each successive stratum and how it utilises the qualities and faculties of its preceding strata. This also allows us to witness the different behaviour patterns increasing during growth and displays the increasing level of intelligence, always gaining in superiority as the strata continue upward. The level of intelligence at the Cellular Strata is outstandingly high, so high that cells seem almost able to think.

The Biostrata ….. 1

iamdogstar

The Biostrata deals with life force and the deterioration thereof.

There are 7 Levels of the Biostrata

The Pranic Stratum, The Molecular Stratum, The Cellular Stratum, The Sensory Stratum, The Spiritual Stratum and The Godhead.

Prana (Life Force) can be seen to be both a ‘potential force’ and an ‘active force’ … it is the foundation to all other stratum. Without Prana there would be no fundamental structure to Total Existence.  It is deemed that all ‘matter’ is made up of atoms and that atoms constitute Total Existence, but there are vaccums and voids that exist too and it is these which have to be taken into consideration when relating to the Biostrata.

Thus, the baseline of you, and everything around you is made up of Pranic energy, life force, potential or active. This is the commencement of all matter. However, Prana is latent and its existence only becomes evident when ‘other forces’ cause it to manifest as life and activity.

The Biostrata can only become what it is by an ‘increasing of intelligence’, and therefore as we step up each stratum, we step up in intelligence.

After the ‘Pranic Strata’ there is the stratum known as ‘Atomic’. Everyone knows that an atom is a ball of space in which there are organised groups of ‘particles’, electrons, protons and neutrons. These organised groups act much in the same way as the solar system, so just as the planets orbit the sun, the ‘negative’ electrons and ‘positive’ protons orbit the nucleus of the atom. There is ‘electrical charge’ taking place too with the setting-up of force-fields and attractions and repulsions within the ‘space’ inside the atom. This could all be seen as a ‘nothingness’ inside of the atom but how does this ‘nothingness’ manifest? Prana is the answer. Prana can only make its presence manifest when combined with or influenced by ‘other forces’. Therefore, at this basic level of the Biostrata the ‘atom’ is ‘Prana in motion’. An intelligence operating at the lowest level to bring about the formation of precise patterns, generating a variety of frequencies that will work together to create, in every atom, a highy concentrated mass of physical energy.  Once Prana becomes active, it will display activity in more than one aspect and thus will ‘register’ as intelligence, behaviour, or ‘active’ force in infinite capability of expression and assertion at every level of existence. In the Atomic Stratum, Prana endows every atom with the faculty of being able to attract or repel other atoms, thus constituting self-preservation etc. Most interestingly of all atomic qualities is that of ‘selection’ which enables atoms to congregate in specialised groups to form molecules, in turn displaying a higher level of intelligence and pranic behaviour (the next Stratum of the Biostrata being that of the Molecule). Each progressive strata of existence increases in intelligence over that of the preceding stratum.

Yoga Nature

iamdogstar7 Comments

Yoga is a Science. It is an Art. It is an Order to which every boy and girl, man and woman can adhere toward in their lifetime to become healthy and whole.  Dedication, discipline and direction are all required to bring oneself from infancy to healthy normal maturity.  During all stages of growth, maintenance of one’s general health and well-being requires self-control and perseverance.  An understanding of the self will lead to the development of mind body unification and ultimately physical welfare.  The science of Yoga encompasses all aspects of ‘how to’ gain a normal state of health. It is profound, there are foundations to be laid, it is a way of life.

The fundamental birthplace of Yoga teaches the path of a natural mode of living.  On this modern planet in which we inhabit, this can prove challenging. Can we return to ‘Nature’?  Have we time to turn our view away from the dazzling mad rush of modern civilisation? Fashion and Social ambition demeans and befools us. In short, it controls us. The repercussions thereafter, obliterate us.  In the cradle of Yoga, one can receive nourishment, warmth and protection. In your Yoga practice you gain first, nature, second, nature, third, nature.  A return to whence it began.

The ordinary way, true earth, natural magnetism, is still with us.  The most vigorous races of the world still live, still inhabit this wondrous earth, as they have done for centuries.  They require little other than what nature gives. This last remaining vital force is bestowed on us all.

Attention now, to the self, is inherent.  It is how nature, and all living beings, will survive.  Observation and awareness to ‘natural magnetism’ and ‘vitality’ will teach all that a Yoga Nature and the answers therein, will show earth’s way.  The Earth is like a battery, charged with magnetism and ready and willing to give forth its strength to all beings. Apply the ‘test of nature’ to all theory and know that it has valuable ‘order’ and is a trusted friend.

Seeking to maintain a healthy, normal, natural body? Assume the title of ‘Yogi’, reverse the trend of ignorance, and endeavour to lead the Yogi plan of physical life.

One can be loyal, as far as possible, to the continuous practice of Yoga, in order to gain insight and experience of Nature’s plans and methods. All systems and techniques within Yoga will indicate how to reach normal functions of the body.  With this adherence followed, a natural state of health and well-being can be achieved.  Yoga’s key note is ‘Health’ and its main purpose is to help all conform to a standard of healthy living.  That which keeps a human healthy can make an unhealthy human healthy.  Yoga (and all branches thereof) exploits a sane, natural, normal and healthy manner of living, and if followed, will benefit all. Yoga stays close to nature and advocates a return to natural methods of life in preference of those which mislead us into obliteration.

Yoga will demand your attention and observation and will teach you how to take command over your rebellious self. Yoga will call to action your responsiveness, your ‘will’, and will show you how to do everything you can to achieve health and well-being.  Yoga will re-ignite your belief in the Intelligence behind all Life. Engagement with the great Life Principle will allow us to survive, to all be well within our bodies.

Put your yearning for something new into Yoga practice; through this you will get a good fair start on the road to the knowledge you seek.

Yoga and Premenstrual Syndrome

iamdogstar5 Comments

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is experienced by all women at one time or another during their lifespan. It is still unknown as to why such symptoms as headaches, stomach cramps, breast tenderness, bloating, weight gain and irritability occur, however through the realms of Ayurveda and Homeopathy, the physicians therein believe that lifestyle factors which disrupt the body’s natural rhythm, creating hormonal imbalances play a significant part in generating all symptoms. Lack of exercise, bad eating habits, overworking, tension, stress, travel and difficulties in relationships will all contribute to cyclic patterns of anxiety, mood swings, emotional turbulence and depression, which all equate to PMS.

Gynecologist and obstetrician, Dr.Guy Abraham developed a classification system for PMS back in 1980. Four types grouped PMS, Type A (Anxiety) often accompanied by mood swings and irritability. Type C (Craving) would result with headaches, fatigue and sugar cravings. Type D (Depression) would have results in the region of memory loss and confusion and Type H (Water H2O retention) would result in weight gain, tender breasts and bloatedness (not to mention the further psychological distress that attaches itself to weight gain and negative body image). Any woman could suffer any combination of any of the above, with symptoms altering with every menstrual cycle depending on the earlier lifestyle factors mentioned earlier plus hormone fluctuations and dominations.

Based on the four main types of PMS outlined above there are self-help measures recommended.  Specially selected Yoga positions will provide not only immediate relief for the discomfort of PMS but will give continual opportunity for inner renewal and long-term benefits in reducing (and in some cases eradicating) all symptoms therein.

Yoga Postures for Type A (Anxiety) : The Corpse Pose, The Crocodile, The Child’s Pose All three of these are simple relaxation poses. In turn they will allow the mind to focus inward and relax deeply and completely whilst focusing the breath on the organs such as the abdomen, pelvis and back muscles.

Yoga Postures for Type C (Craving) : The Bow, The Bridge (modified) These two postures will stimulate blood flow to the abdomen and pelvic areas thus helping to regulate sugar levels and metabolism. Further within these 2 poses the ovaries, uterus and abdominal organs will be stretched and toned. Performing these positions will increase energy and lift the mood bringing with it a sense of rejuvenation and relieving of carbohydrate cravings. This type of PMS will translate the need for glucose to that of the need for sugar and/or chocolate (which contains magnesium which is needed to normalize glucose metabolism) however, unrefined sugar and chocolate have the side effect of a ‘let-down’ feeling, fatigue and headaches.

Type D (Depression) : Upward Facing DogThis dog posture is excellent for stimulating both the front and back of the body and bringing renewed strength to the lumbar and pelvic area. Gazing upward together with stretching skyward help counteract the downward pull of gravity, and that too of depression.

Type H (H20 Retention) : Wide-Angle Pose, The Plough                                                                                                                Gentle inversions help relieve and reverse the effects of water retention, especially in the feet, ankles and lower legs. Blood and energy circulation is stimulated, the entire pelvic region is opened and energized thus counteracting swelling. Care is to be taken to not do full inverted postures whilst on your menses.

All of the above postures, practiced regularly, during and in between the menstrual cycle, will all contribute to lessening the discomfort of PMS symptoms.

Om/Aum

iamdogstar

om

Om/Aum is the ultimate Mantra (repeated sacred word).

Aum/Om has its own symbol

it represents the conscious, the subconscious and the unconscious in everything

The word Om is mighty and omnipresent.

It is believed that Om is the ancestor of Amen.

 

Om emphasises balance.

Paramahansa Yogananda states: ‘the infinite potencies of sound derive from the Creative Word, Aum, the cosmic vibratory power behind all atomic energies’.

Any word spoken with clear realization and deep concentration has a materializing value. Loud or silent repetition of inspiring words has been found effective in Coueism (a method of self-help stressing autosuggestion) and similar systems of psychotherapy. The secret lies in the stepping-up of the mind’s vibratory rate.

Molecular vibration never ceases. Inherent tendencies are equal to the sum-total of impressions/stimuli that you imbibe, which then live on in the mind. Repetition of creative sound is the greatest stimulus that can be given to the spirit, by repeating the Om/Aum mantra, one is keeping great company with one’s own mind. Light enters, ‘the self’ will become manifest.

With AUM, the first letter A is the root sound, the key, pronounced without touching any part of the tongue or palate. The second letter, U rolls from the very root to the end of the sounding board of the mouth. The M, and third letter represents the last sound in the series, being produced with the lips closed. With this in mind it becomes clear to see that Om(Aum) represents the whole phenomena of sound-producing and shows all possibility and range of word making, it is in short the matrix of sound and nature.

Yoga is Good For You

iamdogstar4 Comments

Yoga is good for what ails you.

Just for starters Yoga helps manage or control anxiety, arthritis, asthma, back pain, blood pressure, carpal tunnel syndrome, chronic fatigue, depression, diabetes, epilepsy, headaches, heart disease, multiple sclerosis, stress and other conditions and diseases.

On top of all that Yoga improves your muscle tone, flexibility, strength and stamina, it reduces stress and tension, boosts self-esteem, improves concentration and creativity, lowers fat, improves blood circulation, stimulates the immune system and creates a sense of well-being and calm.

That’s all just scratching the surface. If you delve further, deeper, you find connection to your transcendent Self and gain true happiness, liberation and enlightenment.

 

Hatha Yoga / Styles

iamdogstar

Regardless of your age and/or level of fitness you can find a style of Hatha Yoga that will appeal and be most appropriate for your particular body and/or personality. Throughout all styles of Hatha Yoga, basic asanas (postures) and pranayamas (breathing exercises) remain the same, however it is within their order, how they are approached and where attention is focused that differentiates them. The emphasis may be on the postures, the breath, the rhythmic movements, the philosophy or a combination of non-exhaustive factors. There will always be the specific characteristics which reflect any particular teacher’s approach too. All styles and all teachers have their own personalities and it is about finding one which suits you.

Ananda Yoga ~ this method combines physical and spiritual with its purpose to clear and energize the systems of your body in preparation for meditation. Every posture looks toward expanding or heightening self-awareness. It is enhanced through affirmations which are a distinctive feature of this system. This style utilizes series of poses called ‘energization exercises’ which involve tensing and relaxing different parts of the body synchronised with breathing exercises to send energy to all parts. There is emphasis placed on relaxing deeply into the poses reflecting the intention that Hatha Yoga is a preparation for meditation.

Ashtanga Yoga ~ this yoga system is a rigorous practice and can be compared with the training of an elite athlete. There are 240 postures done in six successive series which are all linked by the breath (vinyasa flow). This style of Hatha Yoga represents the most intensive form with its purpose to create heat which in turn produces a cleansing/detoxifying effect on the body. There are equal emphasis placed on strength, flexibility and stamina within Ashtanga practice (also known as ‘Power Yoga’).

Integral Yoga ~ this combines all paths of yoga to benefit all aspects of the individual. One approach is made through asana (postures), pranayama (controlled breathing), selfless study, chanting, prayer, meditation and self-inquiry. Integral Yoga is more meditative than anatomical. This approach encourages one to be ‘at ease in body, peaceful in mind and useful in life’.

Iyengar Yoga ~ this is probably the most widely known technique of Hatha Yoga and is prescribed by yoga master B.K.S Iyengar. It is rigorously scientific and therapeutic and concentrates on alignment, correcting those structural imbalances of the physical body. One will pay close attention to the placement of hands, feet and pelvis as well as gaining alignment of the spine and appendicular frame (arms and legs). There is much attention to detail within Iyengar Yoga and props (wooden blocks, belts, straps, blankets, bolsters) are made available to assist in achieving great symmetry of the skeletal frame and progressing in extension within the posture.

Kripalu Yoga ~ this style of Yoga has been described as ‘meditation in motion’.  There is less concern with the structural detail of the poses more rather how the student feels mentally and emotionally whilst holding the posture. This style encourages a gentle, compassionate and introspective approach and due to the nature of holding the position for a longer time, it helps the practitioner to explore and release any emotional/spiritual obstructions. There are 3 stages to this style of practice, willful practice, will and surrender and surrendering to the body’s wisdom. There are differing intensities offered, gentle, moderate and vigorous. On top of all of this there is spontaneity encouraged through sequences of postures and too in individual postures to be guided by the body’s internal awareness.

Kundalini Yoga ~ this is the ancient practice which is designed to unlock and bring forth the reservoir of energy located deep within the base of the spine. The use of breath, posture, chanting and meditation are all encouraged to stimulate and consciously awaken the ‘kundalini’ through the chakras of energy centres positioned along the spine. The most common breathing exercises to be emphasised are : alternate nostril breathing, diaphragmatic breathing and a dynamic technique called ‘breath of fire’.

Sivananda Yoga ~ this style of Hatha Yoga incorporates a 5 point method of practice. It includes proper exercise, breathing, deep relaxation, vegetarian diet and positive thinking and meditation. The practice herein follows a routine of breathing exercises, sun salutations, a series of postures and then relaxation. Short Mantra chants and prayers will always begin and end each class.

Viniyoga ~ this style is ‘middle of the road’ between exacting Iyengar Yoga and demanding Ashtanga Yoga. Its basis is within the realm of ‘organized course of yoga study’.  There is the combination of asana, pranayama, meditation, text study, counselling, prayer, ritual, chanting and using the powers of imagination. There is a tailoring of the postures to the physical needs of the individual student, the emotional needs and also the cultural heritage. Breathing is considered to be one of the most important parts of the movement and inhalations and exhalations are consciously coordinated and articulated in varying length and ratios. This style of yoga is tutorial on a private one-to-one basis.

Bikram Yoga ~ this style is also known as ‘hot yoga’ for it is practiced within temperatures of 80 degrees or more (supplemented by a humidifier). The 90 minute class consists of 26 hatha yoga postures repeated twice over and there is a pranayama exercise at the beginning and the end of the session. A brief relaxation concludes the class. This style of yoga is exhilarating and an excellent routine for the physically and mentally fit.

 

The Art of Tantric Sex

iamdogstar

tantric sex is meditative, spontaneous and intimate lovemaking … through it you learn to prolong the act of making love and to channel rather than dissipate, potent orgasmic energies moving through you, thereby raising the level of your consciousness ……

tantra transports your sexuality from the plane of doing to the plane of being

there is no goal in tantric sex, only the present moment of perfect and harmonious union … tantra teaches you to revere your sexual partner and to transform the act of sex into a sacrament of love ………….

tantra teaches that lovemaking between a woman and man when entered into with awareness, is a gateway to both sexual and spiritual ecstasy

tantrikas view sexual energy as a divine, all-encompassing life force that sleeps within the individual, permeates the universe, and affects everything we do from birth to death … as sexual beings, we have the ability to raise that energy within ourselves and use it to directly experience alternate or mystical states of consciousness … in effect, we become ‘goddesses’ or ‘gods’; our bodies transformed into temples of female and male divinity

Bitesize Nuggets

iamdogstar

#   a proton is positively charged

#   the six characteristics of the living cell are: respiration / digestion and absorption of food / growth and repair / extretion / reproduction and irritability and conductivity

#   digestion is the process of breaking down food into fewer more simple molecules

#   the waste product of combustion (inhalation of oxygen) is expelled as carbon dioxide / carbonic acid

#   simple fission is a manner of reproduction whereby the nucleus divides to form two nuclei in one cell … then the cytoplasm divides to form two daughter cells within it own nucleus, so it is in short, reproduction

#   hereditary data is stored within the nucleoplasm of the cell

#   a cell and all it activities are controlled by the nucleus / cell membrane

#   there are 23 pairs of chromosomes in a human cell

#   mitosis is the division of cells through five stages – prophase – the initial divide, metaphase, anaphase, telophase and there the formation of two separate daughter cells .. mitosis is when one cell reproduces to make two new individual cells

Hunger -v- Appetite

iamdogstar

Hunger and appetite are two entirely different features of the human body, hunger being the normal/natural demand for food, appetite the abnormal.  Most people confuse the two.

For the majority of persons who have reached maturity, their natural taste, or ‘Hunger-instinct’ has been made corrupt by ‘Appetite’.   For too long they have not experienced the sensation of genuine hunger and have forgotten exactly what it feels like.  It is a challenge to describe a sensation unless one can recollect the same or a similar sensation experienced at some point during one’s existence.  So to attempt to describe the true sensation of hunger could be like conveying the sound of a violin to someone born ‘stone deaf’ or giving clever description of the whiff of rain to someone born without the sense of smell.

For all those who have disentangled themself from the grip of Appetite then the respective sensations of Hunger and Appetite are easily distinguishable and the precise meaning of each term can be easily acknowledged.  However, to the average person ‘Hunger’ means the foundation of appetite and ‘Appetite’ the result of hunger.  Both words are misrepresented.

Let us take thirst for example.  We all know the sensation of a natural thirst. It is felt in the mouth and throat and can be satisfied only with cool water, as Nature intended.  This natural Thirst is akin to natural Hunger.

Why then, do persons of today’s society deviate from consuming cool water to quench this natural Thirst and instead relent to the abnormal craving for consumption of sweetened flavoured waters, fizzy drinks and caffeine laden concoctions?  How often do you hear a person say that they are ‘so thirsty’ and then see that person reach for a glass of cola or a mug of coffee; or others say they are ‘thirsty’ for a whiskey or a lager.  If nature be in order and these people were really thirsty, or in other words, calling for fluids, pure water would be what they drink for it is only pure water that will gratify natural thirst.

However in these times of unintelligent consumptive society, water will not satisfy this pop or whisky thirst.  Why? The answer is simple; it is a craving, an abnormal appetite – a perverted taste.  The appetite has been created – the habit acquired – and the mastery of it asserted.

You might notice that being the victim of these abnormal ‘thirsts’ you may sporadically experience real thirst and at this point actually will seek water.  This is not a sermon against fancy drink habits; it is merely an illustration between natural instinct and developed habit.

Appetite is an acquired habit of eating or drinking and has little to do with real hunger or thirst.

Man has the ability to acquire an appetite for absolutely anything; be that tobacco or liquor, chewing gum or opium, morphine or caffeine, cocaine or caviar.  Once acquired, an appetite becomes, if anything, stronger than a natural demand.  Man has been known to die of starvation because he/she had spent all their money on drink or narcotics before considering food.  Man steals lies and slays just to gratify their appetite for narcotics.  Who would think of calling this terrible craving of appetite by the name of Hunger?  Yet still we continue to think and speak of as Hunger every craving we have for something to put into the stomach when usually it is merely a symptom of Appetite.

All animals have a natural hunger until it is spoiled by contact with man or woman who tempts it with derivatives of natural food substances, candies and similar articles of miscalled food, much like the young child has a natural hunger until it is spoiled in the same way.  In a child, natural hunger is more or less replaced by acquired appetites, the degree largely dependent upon the wealth and example of its parents – usually, no matter of wealth, the acquirement of false appetite will be as a direct result of those leading by example, i.e the parent/s, who possibly, ignite a fundamentally wrong example.  As the child grows older, it loses all recollection of what real Hunger means.  In fact, people speak of Hunger as a distressing thing, rather than as a natural instinct.

Remember how it feels to go camping and get fresh open-air exercise, to feel natural life again, a taste of real hunger? And then to eat heartily like a young schoolchild with a relish you have not known for years.  You’ll feel hunger in earnest and eat because you have to, not from mere habit, like you do when you’re at home, overloading your stomachs continually.

The story of a party of wealthy people who were shipwrecked whilst on a yachting trip lays example to this.  They were compelled to live on the most meagre fare for ten days.  When rescued they looked the picture of health, rosy, bright-eyed and possessed of the precious gift of good, natural Hunger.

Prior to their shipwreck some of the party had suffered with intestinal dis-ease in one way or another, after the watery washout, they were completely cured because of their experience with scarce food.  During their ten days at sea they had obtained just enough food to properly nourish them and had gotten rid of the waste products of the system that had been poisoning them.  Whether or not they ‘stayed cured’ depended upon whether they again exchanged Hunger for Appetite.

Natural Hunger – like natural Thirst – expresses itself through the nerves of the mouth and throat.  When one is hungry, the thought or mention of food causes a peculiar sensation in the mouth, throat and salivary glands.  The nerves instigate activity, saliva begins to flow and the alimentary canal prepares for work.  The stomach gives no symptoms at all and is not in evidence at such times.  One feels that the ‘taste’ of good wholesome food would be most pleasurable and there are none of those feelings of faintness, emptiness, gnawing etc in the region of the stomach.  These last mentioned symptoms are characteristic of the Appetite habit, which is an insistence that the habit must be continued.  Food must continue to be ‘stuffed’ into the mouth until the Appetite is gratified.

One can return to real Hunger once genuine discipline and self-body knowledge has conquered appetite and allows Hunger to manifest once more.  You can enjoy every mouthful; with even the crust of dry bread giving you much nourishment because it is eaten in a manner that as of yet, is unknown to most of you.

With proper education you can return to nature’s harmony and be well fed and properly nourished and enjoy feast upon feast for you will have cultivated and possessed yourself of that most piquant of all sauces – Hunger.

Swadhaya through Pranayama

iamdogstar

Our breathing not only connects us with the outer world, but it also connects our body, mind, emotions and spirit. Sit quietly with eyes closed and spine erect but supple.  Begin to relax more and more into this very simple posture. Simply follow the breath going in and out of one’s nose. Then follow the actual movement of the air into and out of the lungs. Observe the body and sense where the breath is taking place. Does it take place in the shoulders, the chest or the lower abdomen? Do your shoulders go up when you inhale? does your belly go out or in? Do you feel your breathing in your ribs, your back and your pelvis? As you sense your breathing, are your inhalations and exhalations taking place evenly and harmoniously or do they seem to pull in one direction or another? What tensions do you feel? What does your breathing ‘sound’ like? As you sense the location of your breath, do you feel peaceful, agitated, angry, joyful, sad, bored or wilful? Are you being stubborn or rigid in your thinking? What are you thinking and feeling?

In addition, at the more advanced levels of this work with breathing, one can even sense a certain quality of energy that seems to enter with each breath, and one can follow the movement of this energy in one’s body. The purpose here is simply to observe – not to analyze, judge or manipulate.

Do self-study at least 20 minutes at the beginning of each day.