By Atul Vyas
We cannot separate our physical health from the well beings of our mind as both are closely associated and interdependent. This equilibrium is disturbed when the rhythmic balance of the rest and the movement of both are disturbed. This causes many diseases and one of them is peptic ulcer.
A peptic ulcer is defined as inflammation of the inner lining of the stomach due to acid Peptic digestion or in simple words – a fight between the lining of the stomach and H. Pylori germs causing irritation. This disease is known in Indian ancient medical texts as ‘amlapitta’
There are many theories regarding the etiology of this condition but the most prominent among them is the neurogenic theory according to which the intense stimulation of vagal activity of the vagus nerve increases gastric juices along with contraction of stomach musculature that often causes peptic ulcer. Severe stress or nervous tension triggers the problem.
According to yogic science, peptic ulcer is caused by disturbances in ‘Annamaya kosha’ – the physical level or body of food and ‘manomaya kosha’ – at the mind level or body of mind. Due to disturbance at ‘manomaya kosh’ – the body of mind, ‘pranayam kosh’ – the body of vital energy also gets disturbed.
So to cure this disease, three yogic interventions are needed. I mention here one yogic tool which is very simple but effective. It is called Vajrasana or the thunderbolt pose followed by Savasana or the corpse posture.
Technique
- Stand with heels jointed
- Kneel down with knees jointed and sit down with buttocks on legs
- Keep spine erect
- Keep both palms on each knee, fingers pointed downwards
- Breathe normally
- Stay in the pose for ten seconds to two minutes
- Then rest in savasana
Benefits
- Helps in digestion
- Helps in flatulence
- Helps in peptic ulcer cases
- Improves appetite
- Helps in sleeplessness, sciatica pain, and varicose veins
Note of Caution
Rheumatoid and arthritis patients should avoid this pose.
The author likes to be called a “Yoga Scientist”. He is a celebrity yoga trainer and has trained several top Hollywood and Bollywood stars. He has trained for years under many eminent yoga gurus including his illustrious mother Daya Vyas, the first lady yoga guru of India.
