Fight those germs, and detoxify the body

SOUTH Africa is known as the cradle of humankind. From a yogic point of view, it is a land charged with high levels of spiritual energy, a site frequented by rishis of the yore for their sadhna (practices given) and seva (selfless service or charity).

- ASHWINI GURU JI

One such vortex of energy is the Dakshinmurthy Shivling formation at the Nelspruit Nature Reserve, which is at least 2 000 years old.

Bhagwan Shiv is called the Adi Guru, and his favorite is Nandi or the bull. It is said that serving a Nandi is the easiest way to reach Bhagwan Shiv, and likewise the rishis served bulls here in this land 2 000 years ago.

The science of yoga is a not a curative science. It is the path to evolution through sadhna and service.

There are various techniques given in yoga to keep the body healthy, but the purpose is not to lead a long life.

Instead it is to carry on with one's sadhna without any hindrance.

One of the saptarishis (the name is obscure now), did severe penance at the Shivling in Nelspruit, and gave certain kriyas to enhance immunity of the body, and to keep bacteria and viruses at bay.

Kriyas are practices or techniques designed to achieve desired outcomes.

In this column, we will discuss three kriyas, which also finds a mention in the Sanatan Kriya, to keep disease and infection at bay, and to keep the body in balance, towards prakriti vis-à-vis Vikriti,

Brahmari Pranayama

To perform this pranayama, sit in a comfortable posture in a well-ventilated room. Keep your spine straight.

Close your eyes and pay reverence to the energy of Guru and Shri Ganesh. Plug your ears with your thumbs and place your fingers slightly spread out on the top of the head. Inhale, and as you exhale, produce a humming sound, like that of a male bee.