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Depressing moods and 'blues'
can be minimised to a great extent often through persuading oneself to act,
react and interact dynamically and joyfully. Such physical action which are
under our direct control influence the mental formations and habits.
This endearing and enduring impact upon the mind
also serves to mould character and discipline. Shihan Hussaini, the force
behind Ishinryu karate in India, also incorporates joyful exercises and
brisk movements, resembling an elegant dance sequence. this system also
conceives of those virtues of head and heart, which are vital for an
integrated and effective life----loyalty, dedication, discipline,
self-control, and courage. Hussaini also notes that even external
discomforts including sun and rain should not dissuade one from doing his
work joyfully. Physical toughness indeed has a knack of percolating often
into the mind as well!
Indian classical dances such
as Kathakali, Bharatanatyam, Odissi and kathak not only base themselves on
precise choreography but also dynamism, awareness, elegance and delight
within. Exhilarating folk dances such as Bhangra serve to radiate cheer all
over, while the ancient martial art of Kerala, Kalaripayattu instils mental
strength too.
The series of aerobic
exercises, designed by the renowned actress Jane Fonda, are designed not
merely to tone the muscles but also to impact positively upon one's
psychosomatic health. The science of Yoga too involves not merely static
postures (asana) but also dynamic, brisk and speedy movements as in
katichakrasana, uttitalolasana, trikonasana and chakkichalanasana. Brisk
performance of suryanamaskara is designed to strike at the root of even deep
seated psychosomatic aberrations.
For any physical exercise to
impact positively upon the mind, the prerequisites are attendant comfort,
awareness, gaiety and naturalness, as noted by Patanjali (Yogasutras:2, 46).
It would indeed be desirable, therefore, to combine such dynamic exercises
with specific training, structured essentially for the mind --- such as
meditation, breath regulation (pranayama) besides patanjali's prescription
on right rules of conduct and living (yama and niyama; 2-30, 32). This
awesome combinaation of both physical and mental discipline could indeed
help to transform every personality! |
