Guest guest Posted May 25, 2004 Report Share Posted May 25, 2004 Dear Friends, It is the study of the endocrine (glandular) system that brings modern science on the verge of the metaphysical. For it is these glands that act as a conduit between the mind and the body. It was wonderfully put by T S Eliot that " Science in its search for truth beats a hasty retreat as soon as it faces a mystery " . As far as man as a subject is concerned all factors have to be taken into consideration, the physical, emotional, mental, environmental and of course the spiritual. As the physical can be observed science puts too much emphasis on it. It must be noted that there are two parts of the investigation process, the pratakshya (which can be seen, observed) and the apratakshya (that which has to be inferred). Science by relying on the observed/observable facts alone is actually an one legged creature. No wonder is it said, " Today religious superstition has been overtaken by scientific superstition " . It is interesting to note that the chakras in kundalini yoga correspond to all the major glands in the body (according to me, I have not read about this anywhere); Svadisthana : Gonads or the sexual glands, Manipura : The pancreas. Anahata : The Thymus gland. Visuddha : The Thyroid and the Pituitary Ajna : The Hypothalamus , Thalamus and the Pineal. I would request the list to correct me if I am wrong. The sahasrara is actually not a chakra. It is an exit point from the body. So the practice of Kundalini yoga (strictly forbidden by Swamiji for the layman), also rejuvenates the body and mind besides leading to the ultimate bonding between Shakti and Shiva; the realisation of Brahman. Jay's comment on the restrictions imposed by Swamiji on Rajayoga is extremely relevant. We have had three/four cases in Bhubaneswar where intelligent and healthy enthusiasts (students, all of them) took to this practice despite warnings and became mentally deranged. The kundalini is not a toy to be played with. Once it is aroused even the most proficient may face devastating consequences. Even in Sri Ramakrishna's life we have the case of accidental bleeding of dark congealed blood from the mouth (upper palate) which saved his life. You can read about it both in the Leelaprasanga and the Kathamrita. Swamiji also had troble in controlling himself in case of kundalini arousal and habitually entered into deep meditation to regain control. This despite Swamiji himself admitting that he practised such strict celibacy that no semen ever escaped his body even in dreams. The practice of Raja Yoga requires not only strict celibacy but also regular good satwic food, enough rest, equitable climate and a strict routine, besides the constant observation of an adept Guru. So, for us laymen, let us always stick to the easy path prescribed by Thakur, do as best as we can and ride his grace. Regards, Jagannath. Friends. Fun. Try the all-new Messenger Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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