‘YOGA AND HOMEOPATHY FOR RAPID AND GENTLE HEALING’

BY

FERNANDES JOHN ALBERT

Under The Guidance Of

SHRI. RAMANATHAN

K-7 42nd Y.T.T.C BATCH

YOGA VIDYA NIKETAN VASHI

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 ABSTRACT
YOGA AND HOMEOPATHY

The Indian health system has perhaps the world's largest community-based indigenous
system of medicine, and it includes Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, Yoga-Naturopathy, along
with Homeopathy (hereafter abbreviated as “AYUSH”) are commonly used. Reasons for
AYUSH use include a strong belief in its efficacy as a "natural" and "holistic" option, and
the fact that allopathic care is often costly, inaccessible and culturally dissonant. AYUSH is
used to treat a wide variety of conditions, including those caused due to effect of emotions.
The objective of this thesis is to combine Yoga and Homeopathy to be used preventively
and therapeutically. As human mind is a centre for emotions and every emotional
variation creates some change good or bad in the individual and these variations express
physically in the form of hormonal imbalance and if these changes persist for long, it leads
to initiation of disease process.
                       Yoga though a spiritual discipline, is traditionally composed of physical
postures, breathing exercises, meditation and relaxation. Thus after identifying the cause
of sickness related to the emotional area, specific Asanas, Pranayamas, Mudras and Kriyas,
which alter the Five Elements of Nature in the body, can be prescribed. This interest has
generated a number of Western scientific studies that have reported a variety of
physiological and psychological benefits.
                 Homeopathy on the other hand aims to stimulate the body's natural defense
mechanisms in order to prevent or treat illness. Treatment involves administration of very
dilute doses of substances called "remedies" that would produce similar symptoms of
illness in healthy people if they were given in larger doses. Treatment is individualized,
and practitioners select remedies according to symptoms, lifestyle, and emotional and
mental states.

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                       A latest finding in the research of Homeopathy is the importance of Oxygen
(Vital Force) and its relation to Emotions. Energy required for functioning of every single
cell is obtained from metabolism in mitochondria and there are various minute receptors
guiding this process. Slightest disturbance in any of the process in mitochondria will to
lead to cell damage. As this disturbance happens at a micro level, Homeopathic medicine
is said to be ideal to reach such a minute level and bring out repair and construction.
                       In order to establish sound health and to get all the organs to its optimum
function, proper oxygen supply is a necessity. Homeopathic medicine works for the same
purpose. Many a times emotional effects and stress result in irregular, short, or labored
breathing, which affects the oxygen intake by the body. As health requires adequate
oxygen supply and by natural way of breathing which is smooth, easy and of abdominal
type, as it facilitates good oxygen to produce energy required for functioning of every
single cell. Through Yoga by practice of Pranayamas, through disciplined breathing, we
can facilitate the adequate oxygen supply and also achieve the balance between the body
and mind, freedom from tensions, peace of mind and mental health; in other words,
healthy longevity is achieved through Yoga.
                       Hence through Yoga and Homeopathy we can facilitate the healing process
rapidly and in a gentle way by controlling the effects of stress and avoid unnecessary
hormonal secretions. Through Yoga by practicing Prandharana and Shaktibhavana, we
can control the negative emotions by bringing the mind to a calm, serene and collected
state. Asanas give stability, Pranayama and Mudra control the harmonium mind and
through Homeopathy abnormal function of cell can be brought back to normal with the
properly selected Homeopathic medicine. Thus Yoga and now even Homeopathy
propagates the importance of regular and rhythmic breathing to remove the emotional
effects, which alter the Five Elements of Nature in the human body, as emotional stability
that is balanced state of mind is a key to healthy life.

*********

3
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I, IN ALL EARNESTNESS THANK THE ALMIGHTY FOR PROVIDING ME WITH THE

OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN.
I DEDICATE THIS PROJECT TO ALL THOSE WHO ARE SUFFERING FROM
EMOTIONAL DISORDERS AND RUN FROM PILLAR TO POST TO FIND SOLUTIONS
FOR A HEALTHY LONGEVITY.
I SALUTE OUR GREAT RISHIS OF INDIA WHO HAVE DEDICATED THEIR LIVES TO
YOGA FOR THE WELFARE OF MANKIND IN ORDER TO MITIGATE SUFFERINGS
FROM DISEASES IN A NATURAL MANNER PREVENTIVELY AND
THERAPEUTICALLY.
I SINCERELY THANK GURUJI NIMBALKAR AND ALL THE TEACHERS OF YOGA
VIDYA NIKETAN FOR THEIR DEDICATION TO IMPART TRUE KNOWLEDGE OF
YOGA TO THE STUDENTS FOR THEIR WELL-BEING AS WELL AS FOR THE WELL-
BEING OF THE SOCIETY.
I SINCERELY THANK DR. AMARSINHA D. NIKAM FOR HIS ENLIGHTENING
RESEARCH ON VITAL FORCE (OXYGEN ENERGY) AND THE IMPORTANCE OF
REGULAR AND RHYTHMIC BREATHING FOR EMOTIONAL STABILITY A KEY TO
HEALTHY LIVING.

INDEX

Sr. No. Detail Table Of Contents Pg. No.

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 INTRODUCTION

1. CHAPTER-I
Pran Vayu (Oxygen) & Life Force (Chaitanya) – as per Yoga 8
a) Internal or Real Respiration 8-9
b) External Respiration (Thoracic Breathing) 9
c) Inhalation and Exhalation Process 9
d) Types of Breathing 9
i) Abdominal or Diaphragmatic Breathing 9-10
ii) Thoracic /Chest Breathing 10
iii) Thoracic and Diaphragmatic Breathing 10
iv) Lower Abdomen and Breathing Process 10
v) Other Controlling Factors Affecting Breathing 10-11
vi) Breathing and Blood Circulation 11
vii) Oxygen Deficiency in the Body 11-12
viii) Blood Purification in the Air  Sacs 12

2. CHAPTER-II
Pranamyama- Understandings And Misunderstandings 19
i) Pranayamas and Longevity 19
ii) Pranayamas and Deep Breathing 20
iii) Pranayamas and Holding the Breadth 20
iv) Prnayamas and Oxygen 20-21
v) Pranayamas and Life Energy 21
vi) Pranayamas ad Yama-Niyama 22
vii) Pranayamas and Commonners 22
viii) Pranayamas and Food 23

3. CHAPTER-III

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 Pranayamas and its important objectives 24-25

4. CHAPTER-IV
Pranayamas – Effects and Experiences 26
i) Pranayama and Respiratory system 26
ii) Pranayama and the Circulatory System 26
iii) Pranayamas effects on Rhythmic Pressures 27
iv) Pranayamas effects on Digestion 27
v) Pranayamas Effects on Excretory System 27-28
vi) Pranayamas Effects on Endocrinal Glands 28-29
vii) Pranayamas effects on the Nervous System 29-30

5. CHAPTER-V
Vital Force (Oxygen) enters the Human Body- as per Homeopathy 13
a) Exchange of Respiratory Gases between Blood and Alveoli 13
b) Diffusion of Oxygen 13
i) From atmosphere to alveoli 13
ii) From alveoli into the blood 13
iii) Diffusion of oxygen from blood into the tissues 14
c) Transport of Oxygen into Blood 14
i) As simple physical solution 14
ii) In combination with hemoglobin 14-15
d) Role of Oxygen in Respiratory Control 15
e) Cell and Oxygen Physiology 15-16
i) Mitochondrion 16
ii) Functions of mitochondrion 16-17
f) Relation of oxygen and disease state 17
g) Role of oxygen in metabolism 18
i) Effect of blood flow on metabolic use of oxygen 18
h)  Relation of oxygen to Miasm

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             i) Psora
           ii) Sycosis
           iii) Tubercular
            iv) Syphilis

6. CHAPTER-VI
Pranayama as a Therapy 31-32

7. FINDINGS BASED ON HYPOTHESIS & RESEARCH

8. CONCLUSION (Fig. 1 and Fig. 2)

9. PERSONAL REFLECTION

10. APPENDICES
Pranayama’s;
i) Ujjayi and Bhramari (Accompanied with sounds)
ii) Sheetali and Sheetkari (Enhancing Cooling Effects)
iii) Bhastrika (Bestowing Multiple Benefits)
iv) Moorcha (Showering Happiness)
v) Plavini (The Floating Pranayama)
vi) Sahita and Kewali

10. REFERENCES

INTRODUCTION

This project is aimed to combine Yoga and Homeopathy to be used preventively and
therapeutically. The Indian health system has perhaps the world's largest community-
based indigenous system of medicine, and has been neglected until the NDA Government
pushed for reforms. A 2014 study did not report any significant difference between the
usage of AYUSH services by rural and urban populace. AYUSH lines of treatment were
majorly used to treat chronic diseases. The treatments were more used among females in
rural India but no gender-differential was observed in the urban populations.

7
Chhattisgarh (15.4%), Kerala (13.7%), and West Bengal (11.6%) displayed the highest
AYUSH utilization levels with the latter being particularly favorable to Homeopathy.
AYUSH includes Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, Yoga-Naturopathy, along with Homeopathy
(abbreviated as “AYUSH”). Reasons for AYUSH use include a strong belief in its efficacy
as a "natural" and "holistic" option, and the fact that allopathic care is often costly,
inaccessible and culturally dissonant (harsh). AYUSH is used to treat a wide variety of
conditions, including those caused due to effect of emotions. As human mind is a centre
for emotions and every emotional variation creates some change good or bad in the
individual and these variations express physically in the form of hormonal imbalance and
if these changes persist for long, it leads to initiation of disease process.

One can live without food for a few days or months and without water for a few hours but
without air one cannot live for more than 4 to 5 minutes. To keep one’s Life Force
(Chaitanya) protected there is an absolute necessity of a continuous supply of oxygen.
Presence of oxygen marks existence of life in the whole universe. Living organisms cannot
survive without this vital energy. Even the sun and the stars will not shine without this
vital fuel.  If there is any hindrance in the oxygen supply even for a few minutes the
organism would be unable to sustain life. Presence of oxygen marks the survival of human
being and other life forms on the earth. Thus, Oxygen proves to be an oxidant and vital
fuel.
The most important work of providing oxygen to the body is carried out by the
Respiratory System. However, a mention about the breathing mechanism is seldom found
in modern Anatomy and Physiology. In Pranayamas, the application of Moola Bandha
(the contraction of the anal region and the lower abdomen) is being practiced from ancient
times. The part played by the lower abdomen in the breathing process has been effectively
used in Pranayamas.  In Pranayamas, thoracic or chest breathing is found while in kriyas
like kapalabhati, full use is made of the abdominal breathing. In this way, in Yogabhyas
both types i.e. thoracic/chest breathing and abdominal breathing are made use of and
further developed. To the extent that in Pranayama, advantage is taken of the voluntary
control on breathing and through regular practice to bring under control the involuntary

8
part of breathing, this attempt is made to tame and control the mind. As due to surge of
emotions, like sorrow, fear, happiness, etc. stimulates the respiratory centre and breathing
stops for a while and becomes abnormal thus causing oxygen deficiency in the body and
this deficiency could lead to diseases.

According to Homeopathy philosophy, whenever there is a lack of vital force (oxygen) in

the Human body cells starts abnormal behaviour and if this state persists, the cell
undergoes uncontrolled growth, which can be responsible for Cellular Metabolic
Dysfunction, leading to irreversible metabolic cell dysfunction. It than causes dysfunction
in the DNA and RNA reactions (synthesis) and this can gradually lead to even cancerous
conditions. A persons pathological state can be identified through its miasms as per the
degree of lack of oxygen from mild to severe, and are of four types, i.e. psora (I degree),
sycosis (II degree),, tubercular (III degree), and syphilis (IV degree). According to the
world famous noble prize winner Dr. Laureate Otto Warbug, normal cells could become
irreversibly cancerous, if the environment they rested in had their oxygen levels lowered
by 35% for 48 hours. It has been also observed that emotional effects and stress result in
irregular, short and laboured breathing, thus affecting the oxygen supply in the body.
Thus health requires adequate oxygen supply and the breathing should be smooth, easy
and abdominal type, as it helps to control the effects of stress and avoid unnecessary
hormonal secretions. Every physician should understand the importance of regular and
rhythmic breathing and try to maintain the same in the patient.

As Yoga and Homeopathy complement each other, we can facilitate the healing process
rapidly and in a gentle way by controlling the effects of stress and avoid unnecessary
hormonal secretions. Through Yoga by practicing Prandharana and Shaktibhavana, we
can control the negative emotions by bringing the mind to a calm, serene and collected
state. Asanas give stability, Pranayama and Mudra control the harmonium mind and
through Homeopathy abnormal function of cell can be brought back to normal with the
properly selected Homeopathic medicine. Thus Yoga and now even Homeopathy
propagates the importance of regular and rhythmic breathing to remove the emotional

9
effects, which alter the Five Elements of Nature in the human body, as emotional stability
that is balanced state of mind is a key to healthy life.

*****

CHAPTER-I

PRAN VAYU (OXYGEN) & LIFE FORCE (CHAITANYA)

As per Yoga

In Kathopanishad the power of Almighty is described as “Man does not live only on Prana
and Apana but lives on the other principle in which Prana and Apana are sheltered”. Thus
to sustain life, both Prana Vayu and Life Force are necessary as they are interdependent.
Breathing is the most important means of retaining the Life Force (Chaitanya) in the body.
One can live without food for a few days or months and without water for a few hours but

10
without air one cannot live for more than 4 to 5 minutes. To keep one’s Life Force
(Chaitanya) protected there is an absolute necessity of a continuous supply.
Presence of oxygen marks existence of life in the whole universe. Living organisms
cannot survive without this vital energy. Even the sun and the stars will not shine without
this vital fuel.  If there is any hindrance in the oxygen supply even for a few minutes the
organism would be unable to sustain life. Presence of oxygen marks the survival of human
being and other life forms on the earth. Thus, Oxygen proves to be an oxidant and vital
fuel. The most important work of providing oxygen to the body is carried out by the
Respiratory System.

a) Internal or Real Respiration

Breathing is of two types external an internal the nose, celia and cavities in
the nose, throat, windpipe, thoracic cage, lungs, diaphragm etc. are the important parts
of the respiratory system (Fig. 5-1). However this breathing constitutes ‘External
Breathing’. The exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide taking place in the cells
is called ‘Internal Breathing’ or ‘Internal Respiration’ wherein oxygenated blood in the
blood vessels reaches each and every cell of the body and there is an exchange of
carbon dioxide and other gaseous waste products on one hand with oxygen and
nutrients in the blood on the other this is supposed to be the real respiration.

b) External Respiration (Thoracic Breathing)

Thoracic breathing goes on systematically throughout life with the co-
operation and help of the different parts of the body useful for breathing and other
systems. Due to this uninterrupted breathing there is an unbreakable close as well as
distant relationship between the body-mind activities and breathing. There is a close
relationship between the momentum and intensity of breathing. Thus when a person
starts running or is afraid, his rate of breathing accelerates and when a yogi sits quietly
for Dhyana, his breathing becomes light and slow. Thus our every activity and
breathing are closely related.

c) Inhalation and Exhalation Process

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 Air enters the chest when the latter expands this means that the breathing in
process is an active one. In this process as a diaphragm contracts it goes down and
spreads itself at the same time each muscle (the intercostal muscle between the two
ribs) contracts the shoulders go up, the thoracic cage expands and the ribs go up like
the handle of a bucket. Due to this the chest expands and at the same time, a cavity is
formed (Fig. 5-9). The inside pressure is reduced and according to the physical law of
nature and in order to equalise the pressure, air flows inside as the air pressure outside
is higher than that in the inside region. Once the process of exchange or oxygen and
carbon dioxide takes place in the lungs, the chest and lungs regains their original
position to maintain it s coming back to normal.

d) Types of Breathing
i) Diaphragmatic or Abdominal breathing: is this breathing that is a
predominence of movement of the diaphragm. While taking the breath the
abdomen comes forward and during breathing out that the contraction of the
abdomen and the same is drawn in. In these movements the diagram plays a major
role.
ii) Thoracic / Chest Breathing: in this type of breathing the chest is taken up to
a great extent. The abdominal area remains under control and movement of the
diaphragm is minimum. In this type of breathing, the expansion-contraction of the
chest is more predominant. This type of breathing is called ‘Thoracic breathing’ or
‘Costal breathing’ or in common language  ‘Chest breathing’.
iii) Thoracic and Diaphragmatic Breathing: in this breathing the mixed
movements of the thorax (chest) and abdomen. First the chest expands and gets
filled with air. This is followed by the diaphragm being taken down completely.
Due to this that abdomen gets pushed forward, in this way the breath is taken in. In
the breathing out process the movements taking place are opposite to these
movements. That is, first the abdominal region is contracted and the same goes in
the diaphragm then goes up after this the chest is brought down and air gets
expelled.

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iv) Lower Abdomen and Breathing Process: In Pranayamas, the application of
Moola Bandha (the contraction of the anal region and the lower abdomen) is being
practiced from ancient times. The part played by the lower abdomen in the
breathing process has been effectively used in Pranayamas. However, a mention
about this in the breathing mechanism is seldom found in modern Anatomy and
Physiology. In Pranayamas, thoracic or chest breathing is found while in kriyas like
kapalabhati, full use is made of the abdominal breathing. In this way, in Yogabhyas
both types i.e. thoracic/chest breathing and abdominal breathing are made use of
and further developed.
v) Other Controlling Factors Affecting Breathing: A surge of emotion,
sorrow, fear, happiness, etc. stimulates the respiratory centre and breathing stops
for a while and becomes abnormal. Likewise any sensations from the skin effects
breathing. Contact with cold water brings about A prolonged and fast breathing
and this is a result of immediate reaction. However, it is possible to control the
breathing at will but this control is limited. The reason for this is that breathing
activity is mainly and predominantly automatic an autonomous. Any conscious
effort of holding the breath does not last long. The moment the carbon dioxide
content in the blood rises, the breeding centre is stimulated and takes over the
breathing activity from conscious control on the breathing, weather one wants it or
not, discontinues the stoppage of breathing and starts the breathing action again,. In
other words, the control of breathing activity is less voluntary and involuntary. In
Pranayama, advantage taken of the voluntary control on breathing to bring under
control the involuntary part of breathing to some extent and through this an
attempt is made to tame and control the mind.
vi) Breathing and Blood Circulation: When one breathes in, the blood pressure
increases and with the breathing out, it falls a bit.  When the breadth is taken in, the
impure blood enters the thoracic cavity in a greater measure. The heart Chambers
get properly filled and excess blood is thrown into the circulatory system. It is for
this reason that the blood pressure increases. In contrast during the breathing out

13
process, there is less air in the thoracic cavity and the blood pressure is somewhat
less. Normally the pulse rate and the breathing rate are in the proportion of 4 to 1.
vii) Oxygen Deficiency in the Body: Some of the important types of deficiency
of oxygen in the body are:
1. In ailments like pneumonia, the air sacs of the lungs being blocked
the lung to not absorb the required amount of oxygen. The composition of
blood does not change in any other respect.
2. Hemoglobin content of red blood corpuscles is quite low, Due to this
they are not able to absorb the required amount of oxygen. In blood cancer
this happens.
3. Even if hemoglobin content is enough and oxygen is abundant, if the
blood circulation is not proper, all the cells of the body do not get enough
oxygen. Thus there is deficiency of oxygen in the body.
4. In anemic conditions as the hemoglobin content in the blood is less,
the oxygen content in the blood also becomes low.  Thus even if there is no
disease connected with breathing, there can be ‘oxygen hunger’ in the above
conditions.
viii) Blood Purification in the Air Sacs: Clean air taken in by the minute
bronchioles in the air sacs known as alveoli.  It is in the very thin walls of these
alveoli and blood capillaries that and exchange of carbon dioxide in the blood and
oxygen in the alveoli takes place.  The walls between the alveoli and the blood
capillaries are so thin that the dead cells give up carbon dioxide and pick up oxygen
quickly. Thus, the oxygen in the air purifiers the blood instantly. The blue colour of
the blood changes to read and the blood then goes towards the heart. Carbon
dioxide and other waste products which have been collected from all parts of the
body, contained in the pulmonary arteries, are transferred to the air in the air sacs.
From here carbon dioxide is expelled via bronchi, bronchiole tubes, wind-pipe,
throat and nose during exhalation. In short, the exchange of Oxygen and Carbon
dioxide takes place in the air sacs. Such inhalations-exhalations in general is 16 to
18 per minutes. In general inhalation-exhalation is 1/4 of the pulse rate.

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 *********

CHAPTER- II
PRANAYAMA- UNDERSTANDINGS AND
MISUNDERSTANDING
‘If one practices  Pranayamas in the right manner,  all diseases disappear, however
wrong manner of its performance can, in fact lead to diseases’ as quoted by Swami
Swaram in Hatha pradipika. Thus many persons have experienced troubles ranging from
simple headache to move serious conditions such as insanity due to the wrong or
excessive practice of Pranayama.  Thus performing Pranayama under the guidance of a
Guru there are no possibilities of any harm. However it is very necessary to take
adequate care while performing Pranayamas as these practices involve playing with life
force (  Prana) itself. It is stated in Hatha-yoga that gaining control on breathing is just like
gaining control over a wild ferocious animal. Even though that is danger it is advised not
to avoid these benefit- giving practices, as there is an element of risk in all aspects of life.
i) Pranayamas and  longevity: Practice of Pranayamas   through disciplined
breathing  one achieves the balance between the body and mind, freedom from

15
tensions, peace of mind and sound mental health. due to the cummalitive effects of
all these, life becomes problem free. Life becomes more functional for a long period
of time, hence healthy longevity is achieved. Longevity depends upon the capacity
of the body and the mind, the practice of Pranayamas and Kumbhakas (pause in
breathing) if you are able to bring down the number of breaths, to say, one or two
per minute, then the duration of life increases 6 to 16 fold. Thus through
Pranayamas, the number of breaths bestowed by nature per minute are willfully
minimised and sparingly used though in some of the yogic kriyas like bhastrika
and kapalbhati breathing has to be done forcefully and speedily at 100 to 150
breaths per minute, which contradicts the above views.

ii) Pranayamas and Deep Breathing: Interbreeding inhalation and exhalation

increased with effort and no definite ratio is maintained between them.  also in this
the idea of controlled breathing is missing. Pranayamas on the other hand lay
emphasis on discipline in relation and acceleration.  Also the ratio between
inhalation and exhalation is fixed. Kumbhaka which means to arrest the breathing
when the breadth is in or out, is the main part of Pranayamas.  This aspect is
missing in deep breathing exercises. Therefore Pranayamas is disciplined breathing
any gainss are not only physical benefits but also it's a more important benefits  viz.,
the desirable changes that takes place in the mind. Thus many benefits of deep
breathing can be obtained from Pranayamas but deep breathing can never take the
place of Pranayamas at anytime.

iii) Pranayam as and Holding Breath: Simply holding the breath does not
constitute Pranayama or Kumbhaka neither holding more breath that is inhaled air
or holding breath for a long period does not fit did the technique of Pranayama or
kumbhaka. in Hatha pradipika there are eight varieties of Pranayama as
Ashtakmbakas,  from this we can safely conclude that there is no doubt that
kumbhaka is the prime part of Pranayama. kumbhaka means holding the breath in
or out using a specific technique the duration of Kumbhaka is fixed, indefinite

16
ratios and in relation to the duration of puraka and rechaka. Also during
practicing kumbhaka some bandhas, mudras or Beeija mantras are included.  Thus
the effect of kumbhaka is a sum total of the effects of all these and not simply the
effect due to holding the breath alone. Likewise in Pranayama one can perform’
Abhyantara’ or ‘Bahya‘ Kumbhaka by keeping the breath in or by keeping the
breath out after discipline inhalation and exhalation respectively, both for definite
length of time in relation to the Pooraka and Rechaka.

iv) Pranayama and Oxygen: It is safe to say that if you take in more the oxygen
content of the blood increases. however, if the oxygen content in the blood increases
beyond certain limits one can experience problem such as giddiness,  low blood
pressure etc., and excess oxygen in the blood (beyond requirement) is in itself
considered as a disorder. It has been argued in favour of nature cure that” oxygen
provision to the body takes place in a natural way while running breathing
becomes fast;  while it slows down in the sitting position. This arrangement has
been made by nature. Artificial deep breathing would be a process against nature
and it could lead to ill effects. Starving is not good for health likewise, overeating is
detrimental to health. If it is true in the case of food it could also be true for oxygen.
Therefore artificial deep breathing could be harmful to health. Pranayama is not a
kind of deep breathing and therefore there is no evidence of an increased oxygen
content in the blood, on the contrary experimental findings have confirmed that
there is an increase in the carbon dioxide content in the blood in Kumbhakas. The
effects of Pranayamas on the brain are more important as there is disciplined
development of the nervous system, due to which the practitioner achieves stability
of mind and emotions, which are the main objectives of Pranayamas.

v) Pranayamas and Life Energy: The concept of Prana energy or pranic energy
is somewhat complex. Also at times Prana Shakti is equated to life force. Thus it is
contented that in every activity we have to expand energy.  However while
performing Pranayamas and especially Kumbhakas the body attains a stable state

17
thus saving and conserving  pranic energy or calories, which can be utilised for
some other purpose or activity. Pranayamas brings about state of mental and
emotional stability by which the practitioners,  awareness and intellect for clear and
analytical thinking improves also there is improvement in the neuromuscular
coordination and all these results in the formation of new reserves of energy.  This
pranic energy is not physical strength but mental strength. The mental strength is
generated through Pranayama. the practice of Pranayamas yields the multiple
benefits of generation of more  pranic energy, it's conservation and proper
utilisation.

vi) Pranayamas and Yama-Niyama: Saint Patanjali  has prescribed Sadhakas  to
observe Yama-Niyamas for attaining speedy spiritual advancement.   Such as
ahimsa = non violence, Satya = truthfulness, Astheya = non stealing,
brahmacharya = continence, and aparigraha = non hoarding , as the five
important aspects of Yama, which are rules to be observed while dealing with
others in the society.   Saint Patanjali, also prescribed Niyamas, to be practiced for
cleansing the psycho somatic structure and to bring about the development and
receptivity of ones personality. They are Shoucha = purification, Santosha =
contentment, tapa = penance, swadhyaya = self study and ishvara pranidhana =
devotion to the supreme. One should not get scared by the Yamas and Niyamas,
however by following them actions, thoughts become stable,  disciplined and pure,
which enables us to live a life free from stress and strain . Thus simple living is a
boon to the body mind and spirit. For example if you cheat or lie the thoughts will
come to your mind time and again thus bringing unnecessary stress on the mind
which in turn is bound to affect our bodies.

vii) Pranayamas and Commoners: A balanced personality is required for dealing

with earning, family duties, and responsibilities etc.  This can be achieved by
practising Asanas, Pranayamas etc., the objective of majority of us is mostly

18
material happiness and prosperity.  We do not have the longing for the ecstasy of
Samadhi, which is the ultimate goal of yoga. However achieving good health, all
round development, mental health, peace and a balance personality are the
milestones one has to cross on the way to achieve Samadhi. Thus there is no harm
in practicing Pranayamas even in a limited way to achieve the benefits while
crossing the aforesaid milestones.

viii) Pranayamas  and Food: It is recommended that intake of food should fill
only half the stomach according to Gharonda Samhita, hard, adulterated, foul
smelling, and heat producing foods,  too hot or too cold, should be avoided by a
yoga practitioner. However yogic text do not insist much regarding food intake; so
one need not have this misunderstanding at all.  Yoga does insist on a balanced
diet, preferably a vegetarian diet.
*********

19
 CHAPTER-III
PRANAYAMAS AND ITS IMPORTANT OBJECTIVES
Yogic texts claim that the practice of Pranayamas, not only stabilises the mind but
also performs the important work of purification of the body, nadis (nerves) and chitta
(mind). In Manusmriti it is said that ”through the practice of Pranayamas, defects of the
sense organs and mind are burnt”. Similarly in Hathapradeepika,  it is said that “through
the Pranayama practices the impurities (waste products) within the body and mind are
eliminated”. Pranayamas not only purifies the body and mind but also widens the
spectrum of consciousness. It also increases, to a great extent, the direct and indirect
control of the conscious mind that has on the vast and mighty empire of the unconscious
mind.
Man is alive so long there is a provision of Prana Vayu i.e. Oxygen. Hence absence
of oxygen results in death such is the importance of Prana Vayu likewise the mind and
breadth are so closely linked to each other that when breathing goes on the mind becomes
activated and when the breathing is steady the mind also become steady. When both the
air i.e. breath and the mind becomes steady, the yogi gets stability in the same way in
Pranayama, Vayu air flows through the Sushumna Nadi and as a result the highest state
of yoga i.e. the transcendental state of the awakening of Kundalini takes place this is the
claim made in Hatha yoga giving these three main reasons Hathapradeepika establishes
why the practice of Pranayama is indispensable for a yoga sadhaka. Pranayama brings
about mental stability which in turn leads to a blissful state by state in Hatha yoga.

20
 Pranayamic breathing differs from normal breathing. Man continues to breathe
from birth till death.   This natural breeding is partly voluntary (i.e. under conscious
control) and partly involuntary (i.e.  not under conscious control). However normally, the
breathing process is looked after by the involuntary nervous system and breathing centre
(respiratory centre)  in the brain. The breathing process continues unhindered and as per
needs, by changing, off and on, the speed and depth of breathing. All this happens in an
organised and systematic manner without our knowledge.
       Pranayama is an ingenious invention  and is not opposed to natural breathing,  in fact
due to regular practice it further progresses this natural process,   as it gains supremacy
over nature (the breathing process), with the cooperation of nature itself.
The four important divisions of  Pranayama are as follows;
a. Pooraka: disciplined,  complete, proportionate  and comfortable easy breathing-in.
b. Rechaka: disciplined, complete, proportionate and comfortable easy breathing-out.
c. Abhyantara kumbhaka:  The air breathe-in, held inside the lungs after completion
of Pooraka for a proportional period. The other names of it are ’ Antara Kumbhaka
or  Poorna Kumbhaka.
d. Shoonya Kumbhaka:  The breath held out after completion of Rechaka, for a
proportionate period.   it is also called ‘ Bhaya Kumbhaka’.
Their  ratios with respect to each other are fixed. In many traditions, the ratio of 1: 4:
2: 4: among Pooraka,  Abhyantara Kumbhaka, Rechaka and Bhaya Kumbhaka has been
accepted. It is observed that, between the two practices Pooraka,  Abhyantara Kumbhaka
and Rechaka method, has found more universal acceptance. However while practicing
Pranayama, all actions have to be done consciously and under the control of the alert
conscious mind.
*********

21
 CHAPTER-IV
PRANAYAMAS - ITS EFFECTS AND EXPERIENCES

i) Pranayama and Respiratory system :  Effect of Pranayama is more on the respiratory

system.  The changes taking place here become more disciplined and optimized; also
breathing is controlled. Due to this the fields of action the five lobes in the lungs, 3 on
the right side and wto on the left side which  are never used to its optimum, through
Pranayama are not only put to use but also cleansed, as due to ’disuse atrophy’ it
becomes a abode for harmful microbes of tuberculosis, chest diseases etc. Thus it no
more remains redundant and becomes handy at times as a  reserve force, especially in
emergencies. The autonomous Nervous System such as heart, intestine, liver, etc. are
calmed down and as a result a kind of mental disability ensues. Such mental calmness
becomes more stabilised with the regular practice of Pranayama.

ii)   Pranayama and Circulatory System : The work of the circulatory system is to send
pure blood to all parts of the body through arteries and capillaries and also to bring the
impure blood  through the veins to the lungs for purification and after purification, to
take the pure blood to the pump .i.e. the heart. The brain requires a very large
provision of oxygenated blood.  do the brain is only 2% of the body weight it needs
20% of the blood in the body. everybody is not rich in oxygen, then the requirement of
the brain is much more. Thus through Pranayama the reserve capillaries in the brain
come into play and become functional and the hidden and potential strength
materializes.  The carbon dioxide content in the blood increases in the Kumbhaka and

22
Rechaka states of Pranayama. This increases the carbon dioxide tension, at the same
time the brains work on fixation of mind. The brain requires more blood as the
necessity of the blood for the body decreases. to facilitate the transport of more blood
to the brain through the reserve capillaries which are unused,  due to this the condition
‘ disuse atrophy’ does not occur and the capacity of the brain is enhanced.

iii)   Pranayamas Effects on Rhythmic Pressures : In  Pranayama there is rhythmic

breathing, which have  favourable effect on the pulsation of the body parts. Due to the
rhythmic pressures, a short of comfortable and happy feeling and sensation is created
in the heart, pulmonary vein, artery and aorta. In natural breeding the pulse rate is
usually 4:1 i.e.  during the 72 to 80 heart beats per minute, the bidding action takes
place 18-20 times. In Pranayama the duration of breathing actions is more prolonged.
Thus breathing rate becomes less by 325 breaths per minute.  in the same way the
heart beats, which have a bearing on the breathing also become less. Due to this the
heart and the blood vessels get the much needed rest and they become more functional,
has it natural takes place while we sleep  hot during rest. The rest obtained in Panama
has definiteness, depth and control search rest is lack in sleep. This state can be
compared similar to the hibernation state found in frogs.

iv)   Pranayamas Effects on Digestion : As most of the  major organs of the digestive system
are located in the torso.  While forming Pranayamas the changes in the pressures and the
pressure waves on the mouth, food pipe, stomach, small intestine, the digestion helping liver,
pancreas, spleen etc. bring about desired changes in these organs. They get a light,
pleasurable and beneficial massage, which energizers them. They are undesirable
characteristics like sluggishness,  inactivity, torpidity etc. an eliminated. Any enlargement of
the liver and spleen is lessened, and further enhances the digestion process. Also the improve
blood circulation enables these organs to perform efficiently. The capacity required for the
stomach for churning, mixing and digestion of the food is obtained and there is a better
absorption of essential and nutritive constituents  needed for the cells in the blood, and the
health of the body and mind is also improved through the regular practice of Pranayama.

23
v)   Pranayamas Effects on Excretory System : Due to the discipline rhythmic and proportional
breathing during Pooraka and Rechaka in Pranayama, there is rhythmic contraction and
expansion of the bronchi, bronchioles and air sacs. Thus The habit of systematic breathing
continuous Union orderly and better way and expansion of carbon dioxide, other poisonous
gases and waste material from the body becomes easy. In Pooraka,basics are completely filled
with air. In Kumbhaka, they assume the airfield spaces, like balloons and sustained the same
after the end of the Kumbhaka as per Jai capacities. In Rechaka, the movements are performed
buy exhaling in controlled and slow movements. These movements bring flexibility, firmness
and muscle tone to the muscles, due to this, the minute and delicate coverings (layers) also
become taxable and tone. Side effects of information of air sacs ( emphysema) which occurs in
exercises done in a competitive spirit ( especially weight lifting,  fast running etc.) does not
occur by regularly performing Pranayama. Even Even the Kidneys become invigorated. the
negative and positive pressures coming one after the other in Pranayama release congestion of
blood and the paucity of blood in this area is eliminated. Also Pranayama effects reach up to
the skin, while performing Ujjayi, Bhastrika, and Suryabhedan heat in the the heat in the
body increases and more and more sweat comes out, which excrete Hum full body waste
products. Thus  due to perspiration the stress on the kidney is decreased. The Kidneys get rest
and they become more efficient. Hathapradeepika, boast that “ with Pranayama, all wastes get
dried up i.e. all wastes are eliminated”.

vi)   Pranayamas Effects on Endocrinal Glands : Thesee glands are the internal secreting
ductless gland and are of great importance as they directly secrete into the bloodstream, the
effects of quick and effective. There are  many important endocrinal glands in the body such as
pituitary glands, thyroid gland, parathyroid gland adrenal glands,  pancreas, sex glands etc.
Due to the carbon dioxide tension affecting the brain and the pituitary gland, the emotionality
and fickleness of the mind is reduced and a balanced secretion of the pituitary gland is
achieved. Due to Jalandhara Bandha in the Kumbhaka, maximum pressure is exerted on the
thyroid and parathyroid glands located in the throat region, as the pressure goes off completely
during Rechaka while releasing Jalandhara Bandha, the health of these glands is maintained
and enhanced, they also get adequate supply of blood and any access or paucity of blood in
them is eliminated and they become more functional. Similarly the  adrenal, pancreas and sex
glands, which are situated in the abdominal cavity and due to the change in pressure taking

24
place during the performance of Moola Bandha and Uddiyana Bandha in Kumbhaka and
Rechaka, has a favourable effect on these glands,  by which they become healthy and their
functions and secretions become balanced. The good health and functioning of these glands
bring about proper blood circulation, beating of the heart, contraction-stretching of muscles,
control of blood pressure, maintenance of proper blood sugar level and prevention from
diabetes, balance in sex life etc.

vii)   Pranayamas effects on the Nervous System:

The Nervous System is made up of many nervous entities and is divided mainly in two
parts, nerve cells and nerves. Nerve cells can generate impulses and these are carried
by the nerve fibers. The brain is composed of four important parts,  big brain
(cerebrum), small brain (cerebellum), long grain (medulla oblongata) and Autonomic
nervous system, which controls important organs such as the involuntary muscles,
heart, stomach,  lungs etc., it also controls the processes and system such as blood
circulation, breathing etc. In normal times, the control of breathing is done by the
breathing centre.
In Pranayama, the same work is brought under voluntary control.  Because
of this, the work and area of consciousness has become extended. The breathing
process, which is in the hands of nature, is taken over by the voluntary control situated
in the big brain, where in the centre’s of intelligence, desires, emotions, memory,
imagination power, etc.,  are located. It is also known as the seat of consciousness.
Thus it is safe to say that the son (Pranayama) excels the father (Nature). Due to this
control both the area of consciousness and its capacity are increased. Purification of the
conscious level, expanding its area and making consciousness all pervading is ultimate
aim of yoga and, in achieving this, Pranayama has a lion's share.
In Pranayama, lack of catabolism and non requirement of anabolism are
created due to the stability and relaxation of the body and effortlessness CDR
(Conscious Differential Relaxation) gained while performing the Aasanas. At the same
time, the disciplined, proportionate, rhythmic and pleasurable Pooraka-Kumbhaka-
Rechaka, maximize this state and the speed of metabolism is brought to near naught

25
(zero). This condition is then created everywhere (i.e. in every atom and molecule) in
every hair and nail in the body. Thus the innumberable big or small impulses
emanating from the various parts of the body that lead to the brain become less and
less entangled and the level of mental vibrations, the reaction to the Brain, etc.,
become very low. Also due to the proportionate Pooraka-Kumbhaka-Rechaka, in
Pranayama, the impulse going to the Brain become disciplined, rhythmic and
pleasurable and due to this cumulative effect, the mind becomes impulse free, calm
and stable and becomes fit for attaining Dharana.
It has been observed that with long practice of Pranayama the mind  not only
becomes stable but with its long practice a time comes when the breathing stops on its
own and the necessity of performing Pranayama is not felt. This state is called ‘Kevala
Kumbhaka’ this Kumbhaka takes place naturally and is given the highest rank. When
such a Kumbhaka occurs every now and then, mental stability becomes second to
nature and as a result according to Gheranda Samhita, 5/57 “ The Mind becomes
pleasant, the sadhaka becomes exhilarated” what more does a common man desire.

*********

26
 CHAPTER -V
VITAL FORCE (OXYGEN) ENTER THE HUMAN BODY-
As per Homeopathy
The respiratory system  of every organism is responsible for oxygen exchange in it
respiration occurs in two stages inspiration and expiration exchange of respiratory gases
that is Oxygen and Carbon dioxide between alveoli of the lungs and blood is called
external respiration and the exchange of gases between blood and tissues is called internal
respiration.
a) Exchange of Respiratory Gases Between Blood and Alveoli
Respiratory unit is the terminal portion of respiratory tract and the exchange of
gases between blood and atmospheric air occurs only in this part of the respiratory
tract.  the respiratory unit includes respiratory bronchioles, alveolar ducts, atria,
alveolar sacs and alveoli. During inspiration when air enters the lungs oxygen is
diffused into the alveolar air constantly and carbon dioxide diffuses into alveolar air
from pulmonary blood.
b) Diffusion of Oxygen
i)  From atmosphere to the alveoli: The partial pressure of oxygen in the
atmosphere is 159 mm HG and in the alveoli it is 104 mm HG.  Because of the
pressure gradient of 55 mm Hg, oxygen easily enters the alveoli from atmospheric
air.
ii)  From alveoli into the blood:  The partial pressure of oxygen in the pulmonary
capillary is 40 mm Hg and in the alveoli it is 104 mm Hg.  The pressure gradient of
64 mm Hg, facilitates the diffusion of oxygen from alveoli into the blood. The
content of oxygen in arterial blood is 19 ml% and 14 ml% in venous blood. Thus the
diffusion of oxygen from  alveoli to blood is 5 ml/100 ml of blood.

27
 iii)  Diffusion of oxygen from blood into the tissues:  The partial pressure of
oxygen in arterial blood is 95 mm Hg.  This is because of admixture of venous blood
resulted by 2% of shunt flow i.e. 2% of blood reaches the heart without getting
oxygenated. The average oxygen tension in the tissues is only 40 mm Hg. This is
because of continuous metabolic activity and constant utilisation of oxygen.  Thus, a
pressure gradient of a ball 55 mm Hg exist between blood and tissues so that,
oxygen can easily diffuse into the tissues. As mentioned above the content of
oxygen in arterial blood is 19 ml% and 14 ml% in venous blood.  Thus the diffusion
of oxygen for blood tissues is 5 ml/100 ml of blood.

c) Transport of oxygen into the blood

Oxygen is transported in blood in two forms;
i)  As simple physical solution: Oxygen dissolves in plasma and is transported in
0.3 ml/100 ml of Plasma in physical form.  In vertebrates oxygen is diffused
through membranes in the lungs and into the dead blood cells. As oxygen is one of
the major substance required for chemical reaction in the cells it is fortunate that the
body has a special control mechanism to maintain and almost exact and constant
oxygen concentration in the extracellular fluid.  This mechanism depends
principally on the chemical characteristics of hemoglobin which is present in all red
blood cells.
ii) In combination with hemoglobin: Hemoglobin combines with oxygen as a
blood passes through the lungs.   Though the blood passes through the tissue
capillaries, hemoglobin does not release oxygen  into the tissue fluid if too much
oxygen is already there. But if the oxygen concentration in the tissue fluid is too
low sufficient oxygen is released to re-establish an adequate concentration.  This is
called the oxygen buffering function of hemoglobin. Thus oxygen can be readily
released from hemoglobin when it is needed. hemoglobin accepts oxygen readily
whenever the partial pressure of oxygen in the blood is more and gives out oxygen
whenever the partial pressure of oxygen in the blood is less.

28
d) Role of oxygen in respiratory control
Special nervous chemical receptors called chemoreceptor’s are located in several
areas outside the brain.  They are especially important for detecting changes in oxygen
in the blood. The chemoreceptor’s transmit nervous signals to the respiratory centre in
the brain to help regulate respiratory activity. Most of the chemoreceptor’s are in the
carotid bodies, which are located bilaterally in the bifurcations of common carotid
arteries. When the oxygen concentration in the arterial blood falls below normal the
chemoreceptor’s become strongly stimulated. This mechanism responds when the
oxygen falls too low.

e) Cell and Oxygen Physiology

As we understand that vital force is nothing but oxygen energy and is responsible
for every cells life. The inadequate consumption of oxygen in a cell causes disorders
leading to dysfunction. In each and every cell nature has provided in excellent network
for maintaining the proper balance between inspiration and expiration of gases. Also it
has its own metabolic unit to maintain adequate level of glucose fat and protein.  The
production of aerobic energy takes place only in the presence of vital energy that is
oxygen.
Cell is the basic structural and functional unit of the living body the entire body
contains about 100 trillion cells. which organ is an aggregate of many different cells
held Together by intracellular supporting structures.  which type of cell is specially
adapted to perform one or a few particular functions. in every cell the smallest amount
of oxygen is restored for immediate use and for multiple intracellular activities.
without this oxygen energy there will be immediate disturbance in the cellular
activities. Lack of oxygen is hazardous to every single cell.
Each cell is formed by cell membrane nucleus and cytoplasm.  cytoplasm consist of
cytoskeleton, mitochondria, ribosomes endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus or
complex, lysosomes,  centrioles and centrosomes, flagella and cilia. Energy required
for functioning of every single cell is obtained from metabolism in mitochondria and
there are various minute receptors guiding this process.  Slightest disturbance in any of

29
the process in mitochondria will lead to cell damage. as this disturbance happens at a
micro level homeopathy medicine claims to be ideal to reach such a minute level and
bring on repair and construction.
i) Mitochondrion: mitochondrion and oxygen are essential components for each
other. Both depend on each other for their function. Mitochondria is a workshop
for oxygen.  From homeopathy point of view, oxygen processed in mitochondria is
nothing but vital force. Any disturbance in mitochondrion function will disturb
the oxygen utility and hamper supply of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP)
production. This imbalance in group of cells proves to be the root cause of the
disease. Mitochondrion (plural mitochondria) is a membrane enclosed organelle
found in most Eukaryotic cells. Mitochondria are sometimes described as’ cellular
power plants’ because they generate most of the cells supply of ATP. Without
them cells would be unable to extract enough energy from the nutrients and
essentially all cellular functions would cease. Several characteristics make
mitochondria unique. Mitochondria a self replicating which means that one
mitochondrion can form more than one whenever there is a need in cell for
increase amounts of ATP.
ii) Functions of mitochondrion: it has many functions namely energy conversion,
heat production, storage of calcium ions, regulation of the membrane potential,
apoptosis programmed cell death,  calcium signaling, cellular proliferation
regulation, regulation of cellular metabolism, certain haem synthesis reactions,
and steroid synthesis. Through energy conversion the most prominent  roles of the
mitochondrion are its production of ATP and regulation of cellular metabolism.
The energy produced in mitochondria is stored in the form of chemical energy
bound to the ATP molecules.  Whenever there is need for energy the ATP
molecules are broken and there is release of energy. Mitochondria also contains
many enzymes. As they have central place in cell metabolism, damage and
subsequent dysfunction in mitochondria is an important factor for all source of
human diseases.

30
 f) Relation of oxygen and disease state
Initially lack of oxygen affects the cellular function temporarily but with the time
irreversible damage is done and revitalization is impossible. Most of the disease states
begin with cell injury and consequent loss of cellular function. Cell injury is defined as
a variety of stress a cell encounters as a result of changes in its internal and external
environment. Thus absence of oxygen or vital force for just few minutes in the body
create a great hazard in each and every cell of living organism and obviously the result
will be hypoxia, instant cell injury and death.  The cell cannot survive without this vital
energy i.e. Oxygen.
The most important cause of vital energy derangement is hypoxia.  It is a
pathological condition in which the body as a whole or region of the body is deprived
of adequate oxygen supply.  A mismatch between oxygen supply and demand at the
cellular level may result in hypoxic condition. Generally hypoxia occurs in healthy
people when they are sent to high altitude, where it causes altitude sickness leading to
potentially fatal complications. Hypoxia are of different types hypoxemic hypoxia,
anemic hypoxia, histotoxic hypoxia and ischemic or stagnant hypoxia. The local effects
of hypoxia is gangrene a form of necrosis of tissue superadded putrefaction. Gangrene
can be dry gangrene eg. arteriosclerosis, wet gangrene eg. Diabetic foot, and gas
gangrene eg. form of gangrene, which enters the tissues through open contaminated
wounds.  Necrosis is derived from the Greek word ‘dead’ and is a name given to
premature death of cells and living tissues caused by injury or disease.
    The importance of oxygen i.e. vital force begins from the neonate’s first breath.
Thus injuries caused due to lack of oxygen could be birth injuries, physical injuries,
chemical injuries caused by microbial agents like bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites.
Injuries to cell could also be caused by immunologic agents, nutritional derangements,
genetic factors and psychological factors which are more commonly related to
emotions.

g) Role of oxygen in metabolism

31
  All cells have certain basic characteristics that are alike.  For instance in all cells
oxygen reacts with carbohydrate, fat and protein to release the energy required fossil
function. Oxygen energy takes part in the metabolic activity of each and every cell of
living organism. Without oxidation there would be no energy creation and no
functional activities, in the organism every smallest organism absorbs oxygen energy
due to respiration and life begins from respiratory activity (inspiration and expiration),
oxygen plays an important role of the organism. Oxygen plays an important role in
every moment of life. Thus inside the cell the foodstuffs react chemically with oxygen
under the influence of enzymes that control the reactions and channel the energy
released in the proper direction.
All oxidative reactions occur inside the mitochondria.  It could be in the form of
phosphorylation, krebs cycle or citric acid cycle, carbohydrate metabolism, fat
metabolism, protein metabolism and energy that is released is used to form the high
energy compound ATP.  ATP is used throughout the cell to energize almost all the
subsequent intracellular metabolic reactions, and the effect it has on the rate of oxygen.
Only of minute level of oxygen pressure is required in the cells for the normal
intracellular chemical reactions to take place. Under normal operating conditions, the
rate of oxygen usage by the cells is controlled ultimately by the rate of energy
expenditure within the cells, that is why the rate of which ADP is formed from ATP.

h) Effect of blood flow on metabolic use of oxygen:

The rate of blood flow is very important in data mining the quantity of oxygen that
can be transported to the tissue in each 100 ml of blood.  Thus if the rate of blood flow
falls to zero the amount available oxygen also falls to zero. Thus there are times when
the rate of blood flow through tissue can be so low that tissue falls below the critical 1
mm HG level required for intracellular metabolism.  This conditions rate of tissue
usage of oxygen is blood flow Limited. Neither diffusion Limited nor blood flow
Limited oxygen States can continue for long, because the cells receive less oxygen then
is required to continue the life of the cells.

32
 i)   Role of oxygen in Miasm
         According to homeopathic philosophy Pathological state,  remedy selection and the
prognosis of the disease person is mathematically dependent on the host  miasm.
Miasm is the cause of disease that indicates the pathological state of a sick person. the
four types of  miasms, creating life threatening diseases in the human body i.e. psora,
sycosis, tubercular and syphilis, Anda will recognised miasms full study in
homeopathic science.
         i)   Psora:  Psoric  miasm means physiological disturbance or dysfunctioning in the
organism; .i.e. Scabies which is an eating disorder of the superficial skin. Usually, in
the healthy state the body does not expressing irritation. If this irritation occurs in
the different parts it is expressed as symptoms and their symptoms indicate the
disease. Most  of the prosodic disease have tendency to recover rapidly without any
medicine. they can be recovered with the help of immune response of the body. Eg.,
viral fever, viral gastritis, acute tonsillitis etc.
                       Psoric diseases present with functional disturbances with minor cell injury
which is easily reversible, and  it never presence with structural changes. Psoric
miasm consists of simple, mild degree (I degree) lack of oxygen resulting in
functional cellular disturbance.
                       The remaining miasms namely, sycosis, tubercular, and syphilis I having
actual structural changes due to reversible or Irreversible cell injury. It is
responsible for bad prognosis of the disease.

         ii) Sycosis:  In sycosis miasm  the structural changes occur gradually,  resulting in
reversible or Irreversible damage of the organ. Eg., Mitral stenosis-   as a result of
cell injury, structural changes take place in the mitral valve area causing thickening
of the wall with gradually leads to stenosis.  Simultaneously, due to back pressures
that is dilatation of the right atrium. Likewise, the sycotic miasm works in the body.
the effect of psychosis is a manifestation of  abnormal contraction, dilatation,
indurations and tissue growth or hypertrophy.

33
                   Sycotic miasm is characterized by moderate degree of hypoxia or ischaemia
(II degree) which is responsible for an abnormal cell behaviour and cell injury.
hypoxia hampers the cellular metabolism which is responsible for the abnormal
protein Chain and the abnormal growth of the affected cells.  if the state persist it
causes neoplasm or tumor like growth. so again moderate degree of hypoxia leads
to Irreversible cell damage, homeopathically we call it as sycosis miasm.
         iii)  Tubercular:  This miasm is the connecting link between psychosis and syphilis.
it represents the inflammation, regeneration and atrophic changes at the cellular
level and this creates great disturbances in cellular functions with weakening the
cell.  for example, osteoarthritis, spondylosis, etc.
                       Tubercular miasm include the III degree oxygen derangement.  being the III
degree hypoxic or ischemic state,The cell function is hampered Duniya complete
and changes such as a atrophy, degeneration and emaciation are seen. in this
miasmatic state, the self drive to survive with very less degree of oxygen.  if this
state persists, it gradually leads to complete destructive pathology that is syphilis.
          iv)  Syphilis:  Syphilitic miasm is characterized by infarction,  necrosis and
destruction of the suffering organ; for instance myocardial,  infarction, cerebral
stroke ect,. There is a great degree of vital derangement when syphilitic state
progresses. this Patil derangement is nothing but lack of or absence of oxygen in the
cell and in the suffering organ, Creating metabolic threat of anaerobic energy. Thus
the cell progresses towards death.
                       Syphilis indicates very low degree or the complete lack of oxygen (i.e.
anoxia).  This is (IV degree), of oxygen arrangement is very serious situation as per
the cell injury is concerned.  the cell then gradually or suddenly progresses to
destructive changes like infection or necrosis that is premature cell death. Necrosis
occurs as a destructive chain reaction; the tissue surrounding the necrotic cell also
undergoes stepwise destructive changes and likewise group of cells (tissues) get
affected.  further as it progresses major part of the oxygen is involved creating
function in disturbances affecting the entire body.

34
 Thus, all this miasmatic states according human being due to oxygen
arrangement. Taking a short review a what is earlier mentioned  verifies that all
oxygen is nothing but oxygen energy. This will make us understand clearly that to
what extent lack of oxygen in the healthy body is responsible for the varied types of
functions leading to the cell injury. All the miasmatic states occurred in Human
being due to oxygen arrangement.
               Taking a short review of what is earlier mentioned in this book verify That
vital energy is nothing but oxygen energy.  This will make us understand clearly
that to what extent lack of oxygen in the healthy body is responsible for the variety
types of dysfunctions leading to the cell injury.
                        The physician must understand the vital force when in order to remove the
vital disturbances of the body with the help of homeopathic remedy:  as the
properly selected homeopathic remedy removes obstacle the great derangement in
cell metabolism and oxygen supply.
*********

CHAPTER-VI
PRANAYAMAS AS A THERAPY

Pranayama is an important part of yogabhyas and yogic treatment it is not only useful
as a preventive measure for many functional diseases, psychosomatic disorders,
mental troubles, mental tensions, civil disorders due to changes in the atmosphere,

35
seasons etc., but it can even be successfully used for such problems as a sure treatment
measure. Benefits of  Pranayama can be achieved by its regular practice and having a
control diet and change in Lifestyle etc. Below is the of Pranayamas which are
recommended for ailments that could be cured.

Sr. Ailment Practices

No

1) Mental Tensions Bhramari Rechaka, Ujjayi (equal Pooraka and Rechaka),

Samantraka (with Mantra),   Anuloma- viloma, Sahaja short
kumbhaka, Moorchha, Kevala Kumbhaka.

2) Sleeplessness Ujjayi (only Pooraka and Rechaka), Bhramari Rechaka,

Bhastrika, Moorchha, Anuloma- viloma (with Sahaja
Kumbhaka), Samantraka (with Mantra),   and Anuloma-
viloma.

3) Chronic Functional   Bhastrika, Bhramari Rechaka, Suryabhedan (with Sahaja

Cold Kumbhaka), Bhramari, Ujjayi (Pooraka 1:Kumbhaka 2:
Rechaka), Sagarbha Sahita Pranayama, Kevala Kumbhaka.

4) Fears without reason Bhramari Rechaka, Ujjayi (equal Pooraka and Rechaka),
(Phobias) Suryabhedan,   Anuloma- viloma, Sahaja short kumbhaka,
Moorchha, Kevala Kumbhaka.

5)   Short of breath Ujjayi (with Sahaja Kumbhaka),   Anuloma- viloma (without

Kumbhaka), Bhastrika.

6) Asthma Bhastrika, Ujjayi (with Sahaja Kumbhaka),   Anuloma-Viloma

(without Kumbhaka), Bhastrika, Ujjayi (Rechaka), Bhramari
(only Rechaka), Moorchha (only Rechaka).

7) Sore throat Sahaja kumbhaka, Anuloma-Viloma (with Sahaja kumbhaka),

Kevala Kumbhaka.

8) Digestive  Troubles Bhastrika, Ujjayi (with Sahaja Kumbhaka),   Mahamudra,

Plavini, Suryabhedan.

9) Constipation Ujjayi (without Moola Bandha and with Sahaja Kumbhaka),

Bhastrika (without Moola Bandha).

10) Bad Odours in the Seetkari (Pooraka-Rechaka), Plavini, Sheetali (Pooraka).

Mouth   

11)   Body Heat Sheetali, Seetkari (with Sahaja Kumbhaka), Chandrabhyas

(with Sahaja Kumbhaka).

12) Perspiration of Hands Suryabhedan (Sahaja Kumbhaka).

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 and Feet

13) Mental Instability Bhastrika, Bhramari (Rechaka and Pooraka), Ujjayi (with
Sahaja Kumbhaka),    Sahaja Kevala Kumbhaka, Moorchha,
Sagarbha Anuloma- viloma.

14) Mental conflicts Kevala Kumbhaka, Bhramari Rechaka, Sahaja Kevala

Kumbhaka, Sagarbha Anuloma-Viloma (without Kumbhaka),
Bhastrika, Moorchha (Rechaka).

15) Mental disturbances Anuloma-Viloma (without Kumbhaka), Bhramari (Sahaja

Kumbhaka), Ujjayi (withoout Kumbhaka).

Note : Sahaja Kumbhaka means holding the breath for short time in ease and without strict
maintenance of ratios of Pooraka-Kumbhaka-Rechaka.

FINDINGS BASED ON HYPOTHESIS & RESEARCH

There are several reports which suggest that yoga therapy may have a synergistic effect
with conventional modalities of treatment in preventing cancer progression and
recurrences. Possible antidepressant effects with yoga intervention in breast cancer
patients undergoing conventional treatment and in reducing postoperative distress and
preventing immune suppression following surgery has also been reported.

37
The available evidence suggests that yoga helps in lowering oxidative stress and blood
pressure; enhances pulmonary and autonomic function, mood, sleep, and quality of life;
and reduces medication providing benefits to adult patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus .
There are evidences that yoga practice is generally effective in reducing body weight,
blood pressure, glucose level and high cholesterol. However, only few studies examined
long-term adherence.

Moreover, it has been established that beneficial effects of exercise include improving
physical fitness and quality of life. Thus, exercise may provide a safe, feasible, low-cost
approach to enhance Hematopoietic Stem Progenitor Cell (HSPC) mobilization. An
important suggested purpose of this circulation is that various types of such circulating
stem cells play a role in “patrolling” peripheral tissues to prevent infections and tissue
damage. Based on the earlier evidences it has been investigated and found that Very Small
Embryonic-Like Stem Cells (VSELs) also mobilize in parallel with HSPC after endurance
exercise. There is a positive effect of exercise on expansion of the primitive pool of stem
cells in bone marrow. Since these small cells may differentiate into several types of cells
across the three germ layers, their increase may explain, in a novel way, the positive effect
of regular exercise on tissue and organ rejuvenation and on improving life quality by
directly affecting the pool of the most primitive stem cells residing in adult tissues. Haas et
al. reported that the most desirable and beneficial life style pattern includes enhanced
physical activity prior to the advance of Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) limitations.
These observations will be crucial for the development and optimization of novel
treatment strategies aimed at prolonging human life span, and physical activity being an
important part of this. Yoga practice involves stretching, bending and twisting which is
likely to release stem cells from bone marrow to peripheral circulation which is required
for homeostasis.

It is thus safe to hypothesize on the basis of research papers that practicing yoga stimulates
the bone marrow stem cells (both hematopoietic and mesenchymal stem cells) trafficking
to the peripheral blood. These circulating stem cells then help in reduction of

38
inflammation, prevent apoptosis, help in restoring the lost cells and delay senescence.
Further, the combination of yoga with pranayama exposes the body tissues to intermittent
hypoxia thereby stimulating the mobilization of cells from stem cell pool enabling natural
cell replacement as depicted in Fig. 1. It is expected that regular practicing of yoga enable
slow and sustained trafficking of stem cells to peripheral circulation for positive health.
However, achievement of the complete benefit of yoga therapy will depend on several
factors such as; age, health status and frequency and duration of yogic practice. It remains
to be seen that how much trafficking of stem cells is achieved by yoga. In a nutshell, the
stem cell trafficking is hypothesized as a possible mechanism activated by yoga and
pranayama leading to the benefits that one achieves such as anti-aging, antioxidant and
anti-senescence effects.

It is clear from the foregoing account that yoga practice has a potential to induce stem cell
trafficking from bone marrow to peripheral blood for possible repair and regeneration of
tissues. The importance of yoga therapy is in wellness as well as illness. The rejuvenating
and curative effects experienced by yoga practitioners could be attributed to repair and
regeneration of tissues by replacement and recruitment of cells differentiated from the
stem cell which is beyond the drug action. Therefore, yoga practice can be looked upon as
one of the best ways to facilitate stem cell trafficking essential for healthy living and
improving the quality of life under the scenario of rise in longevity of human being.
However, there is no direct evidence from the literature search to support this idea
indicating the need to develop such evidence-based science for yoga.

In yet another research conducted on Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) whcih is a

metabolic condition characterized by chronic hyperglycemia. It is a highly prevalent
medical problem across the globe and a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Optimal
blood glucose control is the primary goal of T2DM management. Yoga is a mind-body
intervention found to be effective in various kinds of metabolic disorders including T2DM.
On the basis of the study conducted, subjects in the Yoga group received Integrated Yoga
(IY) intervention consisted of Asanas, Surynamaskara, Pranayama and meditation every

39
day for one hour/day, 6 days in a week for three months. Control group subjects followed
their daily routines. Subjects on insulin therapy, with diabetic complications, uncontrolled
hypertension, under steroid medication, or previous exposure to any form of yoga were
excluded from the study. Fasting and post-prandial blood glucose level were assessed
before and after 3 months for both the groups. The result was a significant decrease in both
fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels was observed in IY group after 3 months
compared to baseline. No improvement was seen in the control group. Conclusion: IY
intervention helps in controlling blood glucose levels among patients with T2DM.

In yet another study carried out on Spinal cord injury (SCI) hich leads to severe disability
contributing to poor quality of life. Cell-based or cell related therapies have emerged as
breakthrough therapies, both in regeneration of spinal cord and enhanced functional
recovery. This study was conducted by reviewing aims to discuss the therapeutic benefits
of yoga in the rehabilitation of SCI in enhancing neural plasticity and emerging as an
important add-on to support stem cell therapies. Conventional treatment for SCI does not
bring out full recovery of loss of function. Chronic systemic inflammation prevailing years
after injury is one of the obstacles in sensory and motor function improvement. Recurrence
of secondary infections, risk of neural tissue death and depression disorders leading to
poor quality of life are some of the factors which are barriers to recovery of SCI. Cell
replacement strategies provide cells that can replace the lost function. They provide a
regenerative pathway for injured adult neurons, which would then promote the
regeneration of adult neurons. Transplantation of cells mostly leads to the rejection of the
donor material due to a combination of humoral and cellular immune responses.
Evidences show that yoga modulates immune function which is otherwise compromised
by stress. It can promote neurogenesis and angiogenesis resulting from increase
production of neurotrophins. Yoga as an immune modulator can thus enhance the
acceptance of implanted stem cells leading to the regeneration of the spinal cord circuitry
and restore function after injury. It is thus hypothesized that yoga’s therapeutic benefits
could prove as an approach to alleviate the barriers of cellular therapies if necessary
evidences are generated.

40
In yet another study on telomere integrity it has been observed over the past several years,
that it has become increasingly clear that alterations in telomere integrity can directly
impact human health. Telomeres have been compared with the plastic tips on shoelaces,
since they can keep chromosomal ends from fraying and fusing to each other, which
would destroy or interfere genetic information. When the telomere length becomes
critically short, it can no longer protect the cell's DNA, leaving the cell at risk for serious
damage. Excessive telomere elongation, too, promotes the formation of partially single-
stranded telomeric DNA circles which too can compromise the chromosomal stability.
Thus, a fine balance between various telomere length control pathways dictates telomere
stability. Under physiological conditions, such unstable telomere has been associated with
diseases linked with aging and stress exposure, including diabetes mellitus, obesity, heart
disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, cancer, as well as psychiatric
illnesses, such as depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, and
schizophrenia. Smoking, exposure to pollution, lower physical activity, psychological
stress, and unhealthy diet significantly increase the oxidative burden and the rate of
telomere shortening. However, recent studies also indicate that better lifestyle choices
which reduce oxidative stress might affect telomerase activity and prevent excessive
shortening of telomere length, leading to delayed onset of age-associated diseases and
increased lifespan.

A number of interventions have been studied to determine their influences on telomere

stability as indices for promoting health and longevity. Among them, yoga seems to
provide comprehensive benefits by delaying or reversing accelerated pathological
manifestations of diseases. Yoga is an ancient mind–body practice which includes
meditation, breathing practices, asanas, philosophy, cleansing practices, and deep
relaxation. There are many different yoga styles, including Iyengar, Svaroopa, Viniyoga,
Kripalu, Kundalini, and Himalayan. Yoga is derived from Sanskrit root “yuj” meaning “to
control” or “to unite.” Many asanas in yoga aim at reducing toxic buildup of reactive

41
oxygen species (ROS) and consequent damages from oxidative stress. It is believed that
regular practice of yoga brings about a decrease in stress levels and improved antioxidant
status by establishing natural harmony and functional balance between various organ
systems, leading to better health and a feeling of well-being. Yoga has traditionally been
viewed as a relatively safe form of exercise that can be practiced by people of varying
health status and is therefore emerging fast as an effective alternative and complementary
medicine discipline. However, there is evolving evidence that regular practice of asana,
pranayama, and meditation stabilizes telomeres. A study was conducted involving 35
individuals with localized prostate cancer to explore the relationship between
comprehensive lifestyle changes and telomere length. The participants were divided into
two groups – the intervention group had to follow comprehensive lifestyle changes
compared to the control group. Men in both groups underwent active surveillance for 5
years. The intervention group with ten patients embarked on lifestyle changes which
involved gentle yoga-based stretching, breathing, and meditation. However, data on
specific type of asana performed or exact yoga schedule of the individuals are not
included in the article. At the end of the study period, relative telomere length in
Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell (PBMC) of the patients increased approximately 10%
from baseline by a median of 0.06 telomere to the patients increased approximately 10%
from baseline by a median of 0.06 telomere to single-copy gene ratio (T/S) units in the
lifestyle intervention group, but in the control group, telomere length was nearly 3%
shorter, difference P = 0.03). Fig. 2.

Central to asanas and pranayama is diaphragmatic breathing which is the act of breathing
deeply into the lungs by flexing the diaphragm rather than the rib cage. The basic mode of
respiration used in yoga practice is slow, smooth breathing using the diaphragm rather
than respiratory muscle of chest. The literature on the mechanism of diaphragmatic
breathing exercises is scarce but probably involves either reduced generation of ROS or
increased stimulation of enzymes for rapid breakdown of ROS or both. In studies
involving yeast, increased oxygen consumption was shown to decrease the production

42
and release of ROS. Asanas involving diaphragmatic breathing can increase alveolar gas
exchange and ventilatory distribution and improve submaximal and maximal oxygen
consumption. Hence, pranayama can alter the perceptions and mental responses to both
external and internal stimuli, slow down reactivity, and reduce ROS production.

There is also increasing evidence that telomere length negatively correlates with
Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in yoga group. In a recent study it was observed that the
effect of Vipassana intervention on serum MDA levels that before and after Vipassana
practice, the mean serum MDA levels in the participants reduced from 3.1 ± 0.67 to 2.51 ±
0.55. It has been observed that long-term transcendental and Zen meditation reduced lipid
peroxidation and biophoton emission. Similarly, levels of catecholamines are decreased
after meditation. Thus, there is reduced availability of substrates which undergo auto-
oxidation to produce ROS, with regular practice of yoga. This in turn is manifested as
reduced lipid peroxidation, reduced cellular injury, and slow shortening process of
telomere length.

CONCLUSION

Thus while practicing yoga, asanas involve slow and steady muscle stretch, it allows for
effortless, easy, and comfortable maintenance of the posture, allowing various muscle and
joints to stretch smoothly without any resistance. This static but passive stretching of the
muscles and ligament affords sufficient time to stimulate the circulation around various
tissues and organs. This also causes effective and easy removal of waste products of the
metabolism from the body. Hence, asanas itself reduce oxidative stress and prevent toxic
buildup of metabolites in the body, which ultimately reduces molecular damage to cells.

Pranayama’s bring about a state of mental and emotional stability prepares the person’s
awareness and intellect for clear and analytical thinking, improves the neuro-musculor co-
ordination and all this results in the formation of new reserves of energy. This new Pranic
Energy is not physical strength but mental strength. This mental strength is generated

43
through Pranayama’s. In other words, the practice of Prnayama’s yields the multiple
benefits of generation of more Pranic Energy, its conservation and proper utilization,
leading to the benefits that one achieves such as anti-aging, antioxidant and anti-
senescence effects. Thus programs incorporating yoga seem to have a buffering effect on
lifestyle-induced oxidative stress, oxidative DNA damage, and biological aging.

Homeopathy on the other hand aims to stimulate the body's natural defense mechanisms in
order to prevent or treat illness. Treatment is individualized, and practitioners select
remedies according to symptoms, lifestyle, and emotional & mental states. Homeopathy
also propagates the importance of Oxygen (Vital Force) and its relation to Emotions.  In
order to establish sound health and to get all the organs to its optimum function, proper
oxygen supply is a necessity. Homeopathic medicine works for the same purpose. Many a
times emotional effects and stress result in irregular, short, or labored breathing, which
affects the oxygen intake by the body. As health requires adequate oxygen supply and by
natural way of breathing which is smooth, easy and of abdominal type, as it facilitates
good oxygen to produce energy required for functioning of every single cell. Through
Yoga by practice of Pranayama’s, through disciplined breathing, we can facilitate the
adequate oxygen supply and also achieve the balance between the body and mind,
freedom from tensions, peace of mind and mental health; in other words, healthy
longevity is achieved through Yoga. Thus Yoga and now even Homeopathy propagates
the importance of disciplined and rhythmic breathing to remove the emotional effects,
which alter the Five Elements of Nature in the human body, as emotional stability that is
balanced state of mind is a key to healthy life.

44
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