Acharya Pratishtha Ji, Director of Mokshayatan Yog Sansthan, led an enriching session on Healthy Body, Mind, and Soul through Bharat Yoga during the Manthan program held on October 26, 2024 at Anuvrat Bhavan, New Delhi, from 11:00 to 12:00 am.
Acharya Pratishtha Ji has made significant contributions to the global promotion of yoga and Indian culture. As President of Bharat Yoga and Director of Mokshayatan Yog Sansthan, she has led numerous international workshops. Her accolades include being named among India’s “Tejaswini: Top 100 Women” and receiving titles like the “Queen of Kathak Yoga” from China and “Ayurveda Samman” from Mauritius. Her widely followed YouTube channel, “Bharat Yoga,” has inspired millions. Additionally, she has represented India as a cultural diplomat worldwide.
The Manthan program, a series initiated by the Indian Yoga Association (IYA) in collaboration with the Delhi State Chapter Committee. The session highlighted essential practices for achieving holistic wellness and drew upon Acharya Pratishtha Ji’s extensive experience as a globally acclaimed Yog and Spiritual Guru, Culture Philosopher, and Mind Therapist.
Right Diet: A Natural Medicine
In her session, Acharya Pratishtha Ji emphasized the importance of consuming the right quality and quantity of food. She explained that proper diet habits eliminate the need for medicine, as balanced eating at the right time can prevent health issues.
“It’s quite simple—if we eat at the right time and in the right quantity, more than half of our health issues wouldn’t even arise,” she stated.
She highlighted the crucial link between food and sleep, mentioning that an improper diet can lead to sleep disturbances. Acharya Ji also stressed the need for quality over quantity of sleep, noting that even brief moments of deep rest, such as through Yoga Nidra, can be incredibly rejuvenating.
The Practice of Yoga Nidra
Acharya Ji encouraged participants to make Yoga Nidra a part of their daily routine. She shared that many people, including students preparing for demanding exams like the IAS and IPS, have found Yoga Nidra highly beneficial. Yoga Nidra, a guided relaxation technique, enhances the quality of rest and overall well-being.
Natural Elements: The Best Healers
She reminded everyone of nature’s free offerings, such as oxygen, sunlight, and water, emphasizing that these are the most effective healers. She humorously commented on modern society’s reliance on artificial comfort, such as air-conditioned rooms, which she said makes our bodies fragile.
“We should expose our bodies to sunlight for at least 20 minutes daily. Enjoying food truly comes after experiencing real hunger, and restful sleep follows physical exertion,” she advised.
Simple Yogic Practices for Physical Well-being
She explained the importance of incorporating basic yogic exercises like Pawanmuktasana, gentle stretches, and pranayama. These practices, combined with a proper diet, create a strong foundation for physical health.
Mind Mastery: The Key to Inner Peace
Acharya Ji discussed the power of the mind, emphasizing that many conflicts arise from mental attachments and aversions. She used a story to illustrate how the mind, like a magical genie, needs proper engagement.
“Our breath, or prana, is what helps calm and stabilize the mind,” she shared, highlighting the role of breath awareness in mental wellness.
Guided Relaxation Practice
The session concluded with a soothing relaxation practice. Participants either lay down or sat comfortably with closed eyes. Acharya Ji guided them through a body relaxation sequence, from the crown of the head to the feet, releasing tension and visualizing a comforting, protective light.
Conclusion
Acharya Pratishtha Ji’s session at Manthan inspired participants to embrace yoga as a holistic approach to health, highlighting the significance of natural living, mindful eating, and the profound benefits of yoga and gratitude. The practical techniques shared left attendees feeling rejuvenated and motivated to continue their journey toward wellness.
