6/28/2016
Yoga and IslamLet me start off by saying that this article is a compilation of what I have read and learnt from researches, logically thought through and correlated yoga with Islamic prayer postures for the benefit of most of us and must reiterate that this is by no means published to question or challenge any beliefs.
The Islamic form of prayer has provided Muslims with some of the same benefits as yoga. The prayer offers physical, mental, and spiritual benefits five times a day as Muslims assume certain positions while reciting Quran and athkar. Each of the five prayer positions has a corresponding yoga position, and the positions together “activate” all seven “chakras” also known as energy fields in the body. Eastern healers believe that each of the chakras correlate to major nerve ganglia that branch out from the spinal chord. Hence, the concept of activating these nerve centers is similar to installing a medical stimulating device on the spine to correct corresponding bodily malfunctions. The Takbir and Al Qiyyam together are very similar to the ‘Mountain Pose’ in yoga, which has been found to improve posture, balance, and self-awareness. This position also normalizes blood pressure and breathing, providing many benefits to asthma and heart patients. The placement of the hands on the chest during the Qiyyam position are said to activate the 'solar plexus chakra,' or nerve pathway, which directs awareness of self in the world and controls the health of the muscular system, skin, intestines, liver, pancreas, gallbladder and eyes. When the hands are held open for du’a, they activate the 'heart chakra,' said to be the center of the feelings of love, harmony, and peace, and to control love and compassion. It also governs the health of the heart, lungs, thymus, immune system, and circulatory system. Muslim researchers have shown that when Muslims recite the Quran, blood pressure and stress levels are reduced. Virtually all of the sounds of the Arabic language are uttered while reciting Quran, creating a balance in all affected areas of the body. This is very much similar to vibrations made when pronouncing the long vowels, 'A', 'U' and 'M' while relaxing in yoga. It stimulates the heart, lungs, and the thyroid, pineal, pituitary, and adrenal glands. The position of Ruku is very similar to the ‘Forward Bend’ Position in yoga. Ruku stretches the muscles of the lower back, thighs, legs and calves, and allows blood to be pumped down into the upper torso. It tones the muscles of the stomach, abdomen, and kidneys. Forming a right angle allows the stomach muscles to develop, and prevents flabbiness in the mid-section. This position also promotes a greater flow of blood into the upper regions of body – particularly to the head, eyes, ears, nose, brain, and lungs – allowing mental toxins to be released. Over time, this improves brain function and ones personality, and is an excellent stance to maintain the proper position of the fetus in pregnant women. The Sujud is said to activate the “crown chakra,” which is related to a person’s spiritual connection with the universe around them and their enthusiasm for spiritual pursuits. This nerve pathway is also correlated to the health of the brain, nervous system, and pineal gland. Its healthy function balances ones interior and exterior energies. In Sujud, the bend activates the “base chakra,” which controls basic human survival instincts and provides essential grounding. This helps to develop levelheaded and positive thinking along with a highly motivated view of life, and maintains the health of the lymph and skeletal systems, the prostate, bladder, and the adrenal glands. The “sacral chakra” also gets bent, benefiting and toning the reproductive organs. The position of Al Qaadah, (or Julus) is similar to the ‘Thunderbolt Pose’ in yoga, which firms the toes, knees, thighs, and legs. It is said to be good for those prone to excessive sleep, and those who like to keep long hours. Furthermore, this position assists in speedy digestion, aids the detoxification of the liver, and stimulates peristaltic action in the large intestine. Last, but not least, the “throat chakra” is activated by turning the head towards first the right and then the left shoulder in the closing of the prayer. This nerve path is linked to the throat, neck, arms, hands, bronchials, and hearing – effecting individual creativity and communication. It is believed that a person who activates all seven nerve pathways at least once a day can remain well balanced emotionally, physically and spiritually. Since this is the goal of all Muslims, it is best to strive to attain the perfect stance, recitation, and breathing recommended in the Hadith while performing the prayers – the very same techniques of perfection taught in popular yoga, Tai Chi, and many other exercise classes. |
AuthorCharita Lankage Archives
October 2017
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