SAIVA MUNNETTA SA ANGAM (UK) R RE EG GIIS ST TE ER RE ED DC CH HA AR RIIT TY Y2 29 92 20 08 85 5
A GUIDE FOR
YOGA ASANAS PRELIMINERY STAGE 1
“Our aims is to facilitate, understanding of the “SCIENCE OF YOGA” and to promote “YOGA CONSCIOUSNESS”, for a healthy living”
Extraction of information in full/part or duplication of this document content are subject to authorisation from SMS - Enlightenment Circle Information Division 2005
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
Enlightenment Circle
Kriya Yoga Asanas Rules to follow: 1. Never hold the breath 2. Do Asanas in Stages. 3. Do Asanas in pairs.
1. fphpah Mrd tzf;fk; k Kriya Pose of salutation.
2. fphpah QhapW tzf;fk; k;
Kriya Yoga – A definition Kiriya yoga is a simple psycho physiological method by which human blood is decarbonised and recharged with oxygen. - Sawmi Paramahansa Yogananda
10. ghk;G Mrdk; Snake Pose.
11. Nahf Kj;jpuhrdk; Yogic Symbol Pose.
The Science of Sun Worship
3. rh;thq;fhrdk; Shoulder Integral Pose.
4. kPd; Mrdk; Fish Pose.
5. epd;w nfhf;F Mrdk;
12. rf;fuhrdk; Half Wheel Pose.
13. mkh;e;j nfhf;F Mrdk; Sitting Crane Pose.
14. tpl;by; Mrdk; Locust Pose.
Standing Crane Pose.
6. tpy; Mrdk; Bow Pose.
7. tpghPj fuzp Topsy Turvy Pose.
8. ghjp kPd; Mrdk; Half Fish Pose.
9. fyg;ig Mrdk; Plough Pose.
15. cWjp xsp Kj;jpiu Mrdk; Supine Pose of Firmness and Light.
16. kz;b cWjp Mrdk; Kneeling Pose of Firmness.
17. Kf;Nfhz Mrdk; Triangular Pose.
18. g+h;t rt rhe;jp Mrdk; Complete Peace Relaxation Pose.
**Note**: Asana pictures in this hand out may have slight variation to the ones taught in the class. The objective of this hand out is to provide guidance for yoga students during their own practice sessions.
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 2 of 26
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
Enlightenment Circle
Shanthi Mantra Om Shanthi Shanthi Shanthi Shalom Satnam Sadhu Tao'im Aum Spirit Swami Kami Amin Amen Aumen Selah Hum Osah Jijosh Akunu Papah Jah Aum Thatsath Aum!
rhe;jp ke;jpuk; Xk; rhe;jp> rhe;jp> rhe;jp> rNyhk; rw;dk; rhJ jhNth vk; Xk; ];gphpw; Rthkp fhkp Mkpd; Mnkd; xsnkd; Nryh xrh N[h~; mf;FD ghg;gh Xk; jw;rj; Xk;! Homage to the SUN – sung while rotating the body clockwise
Kriya Gnayiru Vaanakam
Deepam Joti Parabrahmam Deepam Sarva Tamobagam Deepane Satyate Sarvam Naiyiru deepam Namostute Kalai deepam Namostute Ucchi deepam Namostute Matiyam deepam Namostute Santhya deepam Namostute Nisi deepam Namostute Asana deepam Namostute Prana deepam Namostute Mantra deepam Namostute Dhyana deepam Namostute Jhana deepam Namostute Bhakti deepam Namostute Anbu deepam Namostute Ahimsai deepam Namostute Babaji deepam Namostute Annai deepam Namostute Amman deepam Namostute Yoga deepam Namostute Suriya Narayana deepam Namostute Tulasi deepam Namostute Pathinen Sidthar deepam Namostute Shanthi deepam Namostute
fphpah QhapW tzf;fk; jPgk; N[hjp gug;gpukk; jPgk; rh;t rNkhgfk; jPgdh re;jaNj rh;tk; QhapW jPgk; eNkh];JNj fhiy jPgk; eNkh];JNj cr;rp jPgk; eNkh];JNj kj;jpa jPgk; eNkh];JNj re;a jPgk; eNkh];JNj eprp jPgk; eNkh];JNj Mrd jPgk; eNkh];JNj gpuhz jPgk; eNkh];JNj ke;jpu jPgk; eNkh];JNj jpahd jPgk; eNkh];JNj Qhd jPgk; eNkh];JNj gf;jp jPgk; eNkh];JNj md;G jPgk; eNkh];JNj mfpk;ir jPgk; eNkh];JNj ghgh[p jPgk; eNkh];JNj md;id jPgk; eNkh];JNj mk;khd; jPgk; eNkh];JNj Nahfh jPgk; eNkh];JNj #hpa ehuhaz jPgk; eNkh];JNj Jsrp jPgk; eNkh];JNj gjpndz; rpj;jh; jPgk; eNkh];JNj rhe;jp jPgk; eNkh];JNj
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 3 of 26
Enlightenment Circle
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
fphpah Qhap QhapW tzf;fk; The Science of Sun Worship
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 4 of 26
Enlightenment Circle
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
fphpah QhapW tzf;fk; The Science of Sun Worship – (Reverse the Process)
3
rh;thq;fhrdk; Shoulder Integral Pose
4
kPd; Mrdk; Fish Pose
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 5 of 26
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
Enlightenment Circle
5 epd;w
6
nfhf;F Mrdk;
Standing Crane Pose
7
tpghPj fuzp Topsy Turvy Pose
tpy; Mrdk; Bow Pose
8
ghjp kPd; Mrdk; Half Fish Pose
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 6 of 26
Enlightenment Circle
9
fyg;ig Mrdk;
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
10
ghk;G Mrdk;
Plough Pose
11
Nahf Kj;jpuhrdk;
Snake Pose
12
rf;fuhrdk; Wheel Pose
Yogic Symbol Pose
Picture Unavailable
13
mkh;e;j nfhf;F Mrdk; Sitting Crane Pose
14
tpl;by; Mrdk; Locust Pose
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 7 of 26
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
Enlightenment Circle
15
16
cWjp xsp Kj;jpiu Mrdk;
kz;b cWjp Mrdk;
Pose of Firmness and Light
17 Kf;Nfhz Mrdk; Triangular Pose
Kneeling Pose of Firmness
18
g+h;t rt rhe;jp Mrdk; Complete Peace Relaxation
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 8 of 26
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
Enlightenment Circle
Location of the Chakras
Write down the names of the chakras
Find out the secrets of these Chakras! Each chakra is a switch, which turns on specific areas of the brain………………
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 9 of 26
Enlightenment Circle
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
Reflexology Points
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 10 of 26
Enlightenment Circle
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
Reflexology Points
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 11 of 26
Enlightenment Circle
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
Reflexology Points
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 12 of 26
Enlightenment Circle
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
Benefits High Lights (Our sincere thanks to Bihar School of Yoga in providing this information) 4.1.1. Sun Worship Benefits: This stimulates and balances all the systems of the body, including the endocrine, circulatory, respiratory and digestive systems. It helps to prevent pineal degeneration and calcification. This balances the transition period between childhood and adolescence in growing children. Synchronising the breath with the physical movements of this asana removes carbon dioxide from the lungs and replaces it with fresh oxygen, increasing mental clarity by bringing fresh oxygenated blood to the brain. Note – This asana should be immediately discontinued if a fever, acute inflammation, boils or rashes occur. These may develop due to excess toxins in the body. Person suffering from high blood pressure, coronary artery diseases, stroke, hernia or intestinal tuberculosis should not perform this. People who suffer from sciatica, slipped disc should practice alternative asana programme. 4.1.2. Butterfly Pose Benefits: The inner thigh muscles hold a lot of tension, which is relieved by this asana. They also remove tiredness from long hours of standing and walking. Note – People with sciatica and sacral conditions should avoid this asana. 4.1.3. Cat stretch Pose Benefits: This improves the flexibility of the neck, shoulders and spine. It gently tones the female reproductive system. Women suffering from menstrual disorders and leucorrhoea will obtain relief. 4.1.4. Camel pose Benefits: This is good for the digestive and reproductive systems. It stretches the stomach and intestines, alleviating constipation. The backward bend loosens up the vertebrae and stimulates the spinal nerves, relieving backache, lumbago, rounded back and dropping shoulders. The front of the neck is fully stretched, toning the organs in this region and regulating the thyroid gland.
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 13 of 26
Enlightenment Circle
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
4.1.5. Kneeling Pose of Firmness Benefits: This massages the abdominal organs alleviating digestive ailments and constipation. It tones the spinal nerves, makes the back flexible and realigns rounded shoulders. The nerves in the neck and the thyroid gland are particularly influenced. The chest is stretched and expanded to full capacity, filling the lungs and bringing more oxygen into the system. It is beneficial for those suffering from asthma, bronchitis and other lung ailments. Note – Not to be performed by person suffering from sciatica, slipped disc, sacral ailments or knee problems. 4.1.6 Standing Crane pose Benefits: This is useful in eliminating or preventing stomach or abdominal ailments. It reduces excess weight in the abdominal region, improve digestion and helps to remove constipation. It improves blood circulation, makes the spine supple and tones the spinal nerves. 4.1.7 Yogamudrasana Benefits: This is excellent for massaging the abdominal organs and removing many ailments connected with this part of the body, including wind trouble, constipation and indigestion. It stretches the spine, gently toning the spinal nerves, which emerges from the space between the vertebrae, contributing to good general health. 4.1.8 Fish Pose Benefits: This asana is useful for all abdominal ailments. This practice is good for asthma, bronchitis; constipation relieves inflamed and bleeding piles. It re-circulates stagnant blood in the back, alleviating backache and cervical spondylitis. It regulates the function of the thyroid gland and stimulates the thymus gland, boosting the immune system. 4.1.9 Cobra Pose Benefits: This can relocate slipped disc, remove backache keep the spine supple and healthy. A stiff spine interferes with all nervous impulses sent from the brain to the body and vice versa. By arching the spine, improving circulation in the back region and toning the nerves better communication between the brain and body
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 14 of 26
Enlightenment Circle
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
results. This asana tones the ovaries and uterus, and helps alleviate menstrual and other gynaecological disorders. It stimulates the appetite, alleviates constipation and it’s beneficial for all the abdominal organs, especially the liver and kidneys. The adrenal glands, situated on top of the kidneys are also massaged and simulated to work more efficiently. The secretion of cortisone is maintained and the thyroid gland is regulated. 4.1.10 Bow Pose Benefits: The liver, abdominal organs, pancreas, kidneys are massaged and excess weight is reduced around the abdominal area. This helps to remove gastrointestinal disorders, dyspepsia, chronic constipation and sluggishness of the liver. It is recommended in yoga therapy for the management of diabetes, incontinence, colitis, and menstrual disorders. It improves the blood circulation generally. The spinal column is realigned and the ligaments, muscles and nerves are given a good stretch, removing stiffness. It helps correct hunching of the thoracic area of the spine. This is also useful for relieving various chest ailments, including Asthma and for freeing nervous energy in the cervical and thoracic sympathetic nerves, generally improving respiration. Note – People who suffer from a weak hart, high blood pressure, hernia, colitis, peptic or duodenal ulcers should not attempt this practice. 4.1.11 Wheel Pose Benefits: This is beneficial to the nervous, digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular and glandular systems. It influences all the hormonal secretion and relieves various gynaecological disorders. Note: This is an inverted asana in which the whole body and nervous system are being placed in an abnormal position. It may be difficult to raise the body because the nervous system is not ready. If the sense of position in space or proprioception is lost, strength is also lost. This asana develops this sense of position in space.
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 15 of 26
Enlightenment Circle
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
4.1.12 Sitting Crane Pose Benefits: This stretches the hamstring muscles and increases flexibility in the hip joints. It tones and massages the entire abdominal and pelvic region including the liver, pancreas, spleen, kidneys and adrenal glands. It removes excess weight in this area and helps alleviate disorders of the uro-genital system. It stimulates circulation to the nerves and muscles of the spine. Note: This is used in yoga therapy for the management of prolapse, menstrual disorders, sluggish liver, diabetes, colitis, kidney complaints, bronchitis and eosinopilia. 4.1.13 Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand Pose) Benefits: By pressing the chest against the chin this asana stimulates the thyroid gland, balancing the circulatory, digestive, reproductive, nervous and endocrine systems. The blood flow to the brain tranquillises the mind, relieves mental and emotional stress, fear and headaches and helps clear psychological disturbances. The thymus gland is also stimulated, boosting the immune system. Its influence on the parathyroid glands ensures normal development and regeneration of the bones, preventing premature calcification. Abdominal breathing is induced, improving the exchange of air in the body, relieving stress and massaging the abdominal organs. This releases normal gravitational pressure from the anal muscles, relieving haemorrhoids. The nerves passing through the neck to the brain are toned. Increased blood circulation in this area revitalises the ears, eyes and tonsils, preventing and relieving various throat and nose ailments. Note: This is used in yoga therapy for the treatment of asthma, diabetes, colitis, thyroid disorders, impotence, hydrocele, prolapse, menopause, menstrual disorders and leucorrhoea. Regular practice prevents cough, cold and flu. 4.1.14 Plough Pose Benefits: The movement of diaphragm which takes place by this asana massages all the internal organs, activates the digestion, relieving constipation and dyspepsia, revitalise the spleen and the suprarenal glands, promotes the production of insulin by the pancreas, improves liver and kidney function. It strengthens the abdominal muscles, relieves spasms in the back muscles, and tones the spinal nerves, improving the operation of the sympathetic nervous system. It regulates the activities of the thyroid gland, which balances the body’s metabolic rate and stimulates the thymus gland boosting the immune system. Note: This is used in yoga therapy for the management of asthma, bronchitis, constipation, hepatitis, urinary tract and menstrual disorders.
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 16 of 26
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
Enlightenment Circle
The Chakras The chakras are vortices of psychic energy and they are visualised and experienced at particular rates of vibration. A chakra is like a centrally placed electricity pole from which electrical wires are run to different places, houses and streetlights in the vicinity. The nadis, which emerge from each chakra, carry prana in both directions. The circuits of the brain are based on ida and pingala nadis, consciousness or knowledge, and action or physical energy. We see ida and pingala at all three major levels of the nervous system (i.e. Sensory-motor nervous system-SMS, Autonomic Nervous System-ANS, Central nervous SystemCNS). The basis for yogic techniques lies in the fact that there is a nadi/chakra system which can be seen, at physical level; as being the sum total of the input and output of the various sections of the nervous system and the part of the body which connect to it. This total body/mind complex functions on the power of the three basic types of energy – ida, pingala, sushum nadi. The right side of the brain is the physical side of ida nadi, and the left brain, of pingala. Yoga also states that chakras act as transducers, converting psychic energy into physical energy and vice versa. They distribute this energy to the body via nadis.
Chakra Mooladhara Swadhisthana Manipura Anahata Vishuddhi Ajna Sahasrara
No. of Petals 4 6 10 12 16 2 1008
Physical Endocrine Location Relationship Perineum Perineal body cervix coccyx Testes, Ovaries Behind Navel Adrenal Glands Behind Heart Thymus Gland Behind Throat Thyroid Gland Centre of head Pineal Gland Crown of head Pituitary Gland
Chakra Kosha Tanmatra Jnanendriya Lords Mooladhara Annamaya Smell Nose Ganesha Swadhisthana Pranamaya Taste Tongue Vishnu Manipura Pranamaya Sight Eyes Rudra Anahata Manomaya Touch Skin Isha Vishuddhi Vijnanamaya Hearing Ears Sadashiva Ajna Vijnanamaya Mind Mind Paramshiva Sahasrara Anandamaya Beyond Beyond Shiva
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 17 of 26
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
Enlightenment Circle
The 18 Siddhars There are 18 siddhars in the tamil siddha tradition. Each of the siddhars had lived in varied places under different names. The following are most common names of the 18 siddhars. They are listed in the order of their time period. Only a true Siddha Yogi shall do any classification with full confidence. For additional information please visit the website www.sripambattisiddhar.com Sl. No
Name of the Siddhar
Tamil month of Birth
Tamil Birth Star
Duration of Life
Place of Samadhi
1
Sri Pathanjali
Panguni
Moolam
5 Yugas 7 Days
Rameswaram
2
Sri Agasthiar
Markazhi
Aayilyam
4 Yugas 48 Days Thiruvananthapuram
3
Sri Kamalamuni
Vaikasi
Poosam
4000 Years 48 Days
Thiruvarur
4
Sri Thirumoolar
Purattathi
Avittam
3000 Years 13 Days
Chidambaram
5
Sri Kuthambai
Aadi
Visagam
1800 Years 16 Days
Mayavaram
6
Sri Korakkar
Karthigai
Aayilyam
880 Years 11 Days
Perur
7
Sri Thanvandri
Iyppasi
Punarpoosam
800 Years 32 Days
Vaideeswarankoil
8
Sri Sundaranandar
Aavani
Revathi
800 Years 28 Days
Madurai
9
Sri Konganar
Chitthirai
Utthiradam
800 Years 16 Days
Titupathi
10
Sri Sattamuni
Aavani
Mrigasirisham
800 Years 14 Days
Thiruvarangam
11
Sri Vaanmeegar / Purattasi Valmiki
Anusham
700 Years 32 Days
Ettukudi
12
Sri Ramadevar
Pooram
700 Years 06 Days
Azhagarmalai
13
Sri Nandeeswarar Vaikasi
Visagam
700 Years 03 Days
Kasi
14
Sri Edaikkadar
Purattasi
Thiruvadirai
600 Years 18 Days
Tiruvannamalai
15
Sri Machamuni
Aadi
Rohini
300 Years 62 Days
Thiruparankundram
16
Sri Karuvoorar
Chitthirai
Hastham
300 Years 42 Days
Karuvur
17
Sri Bogar
Vaikasi
Bharani
300 Years 18 Days
Pazhani
18
Sri Pambatti
Karthigai
Mrigasirisham
123 Years 14 Days
Sankarankoil
Masi
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 18 of 26
Enlightenment Circle
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
Alchemy and the tamil Siddhars – by Josph Caezzar In the hungered New Age frenzy where the practice and principles of Ayurveda, traditional Hindu medicine, have become so well known, the West still remains largely ignorant of the South Indian Tamil Siddhar tradition. It represents a wonderful parallel to that of the Rosicrucian Alchemists. Just as the Rosicrucian claim lineage to the high culture of Ancient Egypt, itself only an artefact of "Atlantis", so too do Tamil Siddhars trace their original heritage to an advanced civilization destroyed by a great flood about 10,000 years ago. The lost continent supporting this heritage purportedly stretched from Madagascar to Australia with Sri Lanka constituting its central surviving landmass. Ancient Egyptian High Culture appears suddenly, even from the earliest times at a very advanced level. Examples of its elegance include high yield strains of grain, a precise calendrical system, refined medicine even featuring neurosurgery, but above all its complete system of hieroglyphic language, which seems to serve a higher state of consciousness. These advances emerge suddenly from Neolithic chaos. So too, from earliest recorded history Tamil language appears as one of the most sophisticated literary systems on the face of this planet. This lack of developmental period suggests that both Tamil and Egyptian cultures were surviving artefacts, preserved by the greatest sages of highly advanced civilizations destroyed by geological cataclysm. The contemporary scholar, Kamil Zvelebil, in THE SMILE OF MURUGAN, explains the necessity of understanding the siddhars, the primordial Tamil sages, before any deeper appreciation of South Indian civilization becomes possible. These spiritual giants composed the foundations of literary and scientific development. Yet because they wrote in obscure style so reminiscent of western alchemy and often ridiculed the orthodox caste system with its over-emphasis on ritual worship, the Siddhars have always moved on the outer perimeter of social acceptability. Their chief artefacts aside from a complete medical system include a vast body of esoteric literature as well as ever-popular rustic poems and bardic songs. Zvelebil outlines the common features of siddhar poetry: "a protest, sometimes expressed in very strong terms, against the formalities of life and religion; rough handling of priests and Brahmins in general; denial of the religious practices and beliefs of Brahmanism, and not only that: an opposition against the generally accepted pan Indian social doctrine and religious practice; protest against the abuses of temple rule; emphasis on the purity of character; claims made by the authors of these poems that they have achieved certain psychokinetic powers and other capabilities which belong to the sphere of Para psychological phenomena; use of imaginative and ambiguous language, rather puzzling though strongly colloquial; no systemic doctrinal exposition. Finally, all these poems are ascribed to a body of sages known as the siddhars (1)." Does this description recall the mood of the Rosicrucian manifestoes and the alchemical literature of 17th century Europe during the age of Reformation against the corruption in the Roman Catholic Church? Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 19 of 26
Enlightenment Circle
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
The Siddhars present themselves as the greatest masters of yoga, medicine and alchemy. Unlike their western counterparts who emphasized the transmutation of base metal into gold, the Tamil sages stressed the accomplishment of physical immortality or at least extended longevity as the ultimate token of selfrealization Parallels exist in the western concept of the "glorified body". Just as in the west, these sages left a vast number of inscrutable texts accessible only to initiates. Their Hermetic emphasis on knowing reality directly by reading "the signatures of Nature", developing contemplative "seeing" as Castaneda uses the term or cultivating, "the intelligence of the heart", as described by Schwaller de Lubicz, goes far beyond conventional understandings of Eastern meditation techniques. Such vision in ancient times served as the basis of a sacred science with bountiful practical applications. Patanjali, one of the greatest Tamil siddhars who accomplished himself at Rameswaram, explicated the essentials of mystic discipline, in his well-known YOGA SUTRAS. Although postures, breath and contemplative techniques play a major role this tradition also includes the practical science of Nature; Cosmology, Astrology, Herbalism, Chemistry Alchemy and Medicine. While Ayurvedic medicine concerns itself generally with herbs and organic treatments the siddhars add strong emphasis on use of inorganic salts, metals and mineral poisons. Like the romantic notion of the Rosicrucians the siddhars are bound by an oath of secrecy. They wander anonymously practicing their yogic disciplines, doing service to their fellow men especially as dispensers of potent medicines. In the west sages such as Roger Bacon, Albertus Magnus and Basil Valantine acquired legendary status as alchemists. So too a rich tradition venerates the exploits of these Tamil mystics. Eighteen of the siddhars are venerated above others for accomplishing themselves to the highest level of perfection. The historic locations in India where they performed their penance today comprise spiritually charged centres of pilgrimage. The first and foremost of the siddhars, Agastyar, fits the image of his western counterpart, Toth-Hermes. Considered the founder of Tamil language and grammar, he presided over the first two sangams, ancient literary academies located on the now submerged continent south of Sri Lanka. He also appears as the primordial giver of arts and sciences. Innumerable classic works ascribe themselves to his authorship. Contemporary Tamil scholars assert that at least 26 classic authors wrote under this name. Who were they all aspiring to imitate? Folk tales abound in accounts of Agastyar's constant battles with local demons. He pops into the story line of classic epics, the Ramayana and Mahabharata, to bestow blessing and guidance. Tradition has it that Agastyar still lives in the Pothigai Hills below the Western Ghats, occasionally appearing to the sincere aspirant (2). Thirumoolar, another of the most renowned Tamil masters, accomplished his magnum opus of yogic reintegration at Chidambaram; the sacred spot where Shiva performs his cosmic dance. The chief contribution of Thirmoolar, the THIRMANDIRAM, an esoteric masterpiece of 3000 verses explains man's yogic path
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 20 of 26
Enlightenment Circle
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
to immortal divinity, referring metaphorically to the philosopher's stone that transmutes base metal into gold. Here is the essential classic text of siddhar wisdom. Only in the recent past has this work been made available to the English reading public. Karuvoorar, an architect as well as a yogin-alchemist, played a major role in the design and construction of the Brihadeshwara Temple at Thanjavur. The feats involved in this task recall not only the emergence of the Gothic cathedrals, which occurred at about the same time but also the construction of the pyramids. A popular tour guide describes this as one of India's greatest temples: "This superb and fascinating monument is one of only a handful in India with World Heritage listing and is worth a couple of visits. On top of the apex of the 63-meter high temple, a dome encloses an enormous Shiva Lingam. Constructed from a single piece of granite weighing an estimated 81 tonnes, the dome was hauled into place along a six-km earth work ramp in a manner similar to that used for the Egyptian Pyramids (3)." From a western perspective Bogar might be the most intriguing of the siddhars. Born into a family of gold smiths in central South-India, Bogar received initiation from the illustrious Natha Yogi, Kalangi. Contemplative insight allegedly guided Bogar to construct a primitive form of aircraft that he used in a journey to China. He is also credited with inventing a sea-going craft using a stream engine, preparing an indestructible statue of the god, Muruga, using nine poisonous herbs and minerals and making a major contribution to the siddhar medicine system which boasts possession of fabulous remedies that heal presently incurable diseases and make possible an extreme longevity. Bogar achieved the ultimate state of perfection at the hill top shrine of Palani where the statue he fabricated is still in use. Elaborate temple murals here chronicle his wondrous exploits. These claims seem somewhat reminiscent of the achievements of the contemporary western hermetic master Schwaller de Lubicz, who in an attempt to free France from imported energy invented an engine fuelled by vegetable oil. He designed following principles of number and harmonic proportion imbibed from contemplative vision a ship, which possessed innovative properties of speed and balance in the roughest waters. He developed an airplane motor still used in France today. He also prepared Homeopathic medicines from plants and rediscovered the medieval alchemical procedure for producing the brilliant red and blue stained glass found in the windows of the Gothic Cathedrals. Evidence suggests that Scwaller was the original genius behind the Fulcanelli material, perhaps the most significant alchemical literature of the century. (see GNOSIS No. 7) A popular legend describes how Bogar made several missionary excursions into China. A master of astral projection and soul transmigration, Bogar entered the body of a recently deceased Chinese youth, revived it and grew to become the Chinese sage, Lao Tzu, author of the TAO TE CHING and founder of Taoism. Taoism has rich alchemical faction devoted to physical longevity that lends credit to this bizarre tale. The TAO TE CHING embodies the same esoteric style that haunts the obscure language of the Tamil siddhars and echoes ideas from western
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 21 of 26
Enlightenment Circle
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
alchemy. Any student of Taoist Yoga is shocked by the similarity of its techniques to those of the Tamil siddhars. Initially I could not accept the possibility that Bogar was Lao Tzu. During an extensive pilgrimage to the shrines of the siddhars in 1989 I encountered well educated residents of Palani who took it for granted that Bogar was indeed Tao Tzu. Finally, I found a pilgrimage guide book written in English, a rare commodity indeed in this off-the-beaten-track location. It described Palani's Hill temple to Lord Muruga and contained a brief monograph on Bogar identifying him as the Chinese sage, Lao Tzu. Bogar's monumental work of 7000 verses has recently been edited in Tamil by one of the great living apostles of this tradition, Yogi S.A. Ramaiah of Madras. Since 1954, Yogi Ramaiah has travelled the world, giving lectures, initiating students and building temples. An American centre at Yuma, Arizona features a temple containing eighteen granite images dedicated to the greatest siddhars. He does not offer the customary guru-disciple relationship but rather teaches postures, breathing and contemplative techniques geared to give access to what Anthony Rooley described so wonderfully in the third issue of ALEXANDRIA as "The Invisible College", a higher inspired state of mind. Jean Dubuis, the contemporary French alchemist describes a vaguely similar practice as "night school". These concepts might be related to the medieval notion of "the communion of saints" not as blind faith but as actual guiding contemplative experience. Although mantras do play a role the actual advanced techniques taught by Yogi Ramaiah seem more in tune with the methods of western alchemy. Yogi Ramaiah has so far avoided becoming a personality cult by shifting attention to his own guru, "Babaji", the immortal Yogin made famous in Yogananda's AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF A YOGI . This shadowy character remains a premier figure among that semi-mythical category of perfected immortal saints, which include personages like Harikhan Baba and Bagwan Lakulisa. These beings allegedly inhabit remote regions of the Himalayas, emerging on rare occasion to reveal the more esoteric levels of yogic attainment. In recent times "Babaji" has become a New Age band wagon that everyone delights to jump on, from Sondra Ray and Leonard Orr, the father of the rebirthing movement to Nina Hagen, the German Rock singer. Babaji's picture even appears on the album jacket of the Beatles, SERGENT PEPPERS LONELY HEARTS CLUB BAND. In the vast realm of human imagination, what myth could possibly be more attractive to the ego than that of physical immortality? Yogi Ramaiah offers the world a unique biography of this immortal saint. Babaji was born in 203 A.D. near the sanctuary of Chidambaram. At an early age he was kidnapped, sold into slavery and then purchased by a wealthy man who freed him. Babaji was thus absolved from the responsibilities of caste and family. He soon fell in with a group of advanced wandering sages who trained him in contemplative methods of self-realization. In his wanderings Babaji studied with Bogar at Katirgama in Sri Lanka and at Courtrallam with Agastyar. He finally achieved the highest yogic realization at Badrinath near the Himalayan boarder. Is there an echo here of the story of Christian Rosenkreutz who sets off as an
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 22 of 26
Enlightenment Circle
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
orphaned youth on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land and falls into the company of mysterious adepts who train him in ultimate wisdom? A most intriguing enigma might arise from consideration of Babaji's yantra, a geometric device used along with mantra for invoking the master's grace and guidance. This yantra consists of a triangle situated in a square in turn circumscribed by a circle. It calls to mind a number of 17th century western alchemical diagrams. Notable examples include the final engraving from Heinrich Khunrath's AMPHITHEATRUM SAPIENTIAE AETERNAE (4), the seventh key of Basil Valantine's TWELVE KEYS and the Rosicrucian seal on the diploma presented to Dr. Bacstrom by a mysterious adept in 1794, published in Manly Hall's, ORDERS OF THE GREAT WORK-ALCHEMY(5). Stanislas Klassowski de Rolla explicates the meaning of Khunrath's emblem: "Syzygy or conjunction of the macrocosmic Unity with the microcosmic triunity. The entire process of the elaboration of the Philosopher's Stone is symbolized here ...(4)." The history of the Tamil siddhars has yet to be written. Their writings remain scattered waiting for the scholarly treatment they deserve. The task of separating the complex mythic and actual historic biographies of these sages recalls the difficulty associated with penetrating the wisdom of the western alchemical tradition. Scholars can argue even against the historical Jesus but in the end a good dream is more powerful than any historical reality. The perennial wisdom at the root of Rosicrucian alchemy or the Tamil siddhar tradition transcends time and space. It is an ever present guide leading any sincere aspirant into the immortal realm of imagination and its central diadem of selfluminous Gnosis. In the light of Gnosis all sages from every continent throughout history are forever united.
Babaji – by Yogi S.A.A. Ramaiah In the year 203 A. D. boy Nagaraj was born in what is now the seaport town of Porto Novo on the eastern coast of India. While still a youth he was kidnapped by a Pathan and taken north to Dacca. He was later released and migrated to Benares where he shone as a Sanskrit scholar of great eminence. Discontent with this early success and destined for a greater end, he sailed by boat to the powerful shrine of Katarigama on the southern coast of Lanka. For 18 months he plunged into meditation where, with his astute intellect, he analyzed the different philosophical systems threadbare. Drawing inspiration from the great Siddha of Science, Boganathar, he was able to appreciate and understand the full significance of Siddhantha Yoga and Soruba Samadhi and he accepted the challenge of attaining this mystic goal, supreme. Following the inner call, he wondered throughout South India and was extremely fortunate to be initiated into the mysteries of Kundalini Yoga by the great Tamil Siddha, Agastya Maharishi at Courtrallam.
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 23 of 26
Enlightenment Circle
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
Now retiring to a lonely Himalayan cave, he remained absorbed in intensive Yogic sadhana for years at a stretch, finally to emerge LAUGHING AT THE LIMITATIONS OF DEATH. The immortal Babaji made his own contributions to the nucleus given by Sage Agastya, renamed it "Kriya", and has retained his form through the centuries tapping many, speaking to few and materializing to give darshan to his saintly chosen. For centuries he worked behind the scenes as the source of inspiration and guidance to past Kriya Masters like Adi Shankara, Kabir Das, Lahi Mahasaya and many others. Thus He is the climax of the Eighteen Tamil Yoga Siddhas tradition, which includes Thirumoolar, Ramadevar, Kumbamuni, Konkanavar, Sattamuni, Karoovurar, Sundaranandar, Valmiki, NandiDevar, Paambati, Boganathar, Macchamuni Patanjali, Dhanvanthri, Goraknath, Kudambai, Idaikadar and Kamala Muni. In the year 1944 Kriya Babaji felt the need for a society in his name through which he could contact his devotees the world over. International Babaji Yoga Sangam came into existence and Yogi S.A.A. Ramaiah, the direct disciple of Sathguru Babaji, has continued to spread the Science of Kriya Yogam to the nooks and corners of the earth, giving initiation and training to sincere seekers of Truth. Through the Omnipotent Grace and assistance of Kriya Babaji, 50 world-wide branches of this international organization have been established and, as directed by the great Sathguru, development of an International Tamil Kriya Yoga University is being planned. The university will apply scientific methods and laboratory procedure to ancient formulae embedded in the literary works of the Yoga Siddhas. International Babaji Yoga Sangam has the largest collection of these rare "edus" in the whole world which will be deciphered with the light of Kriya Yoga, and the scientific genius of the Yoga Siddhas will become recognized and appreciated the world over. International Babaji Yoga Sangam fervently appeals to sympathizers of this divine work to lend their support, financial, manual, and moral, in helping us make this dream of Kriya Babaji a physical reality: Such self sacrifice ensures that the Light of Truth will burn Forever and Anon! There are two distinct ways of life - materialistic and spiritualistic. The former is mainly physical and followed extensively in the Western hemisphere and the latter is mainly mystic, prevalent in the Eastern hemisphere. Occidental materialism denies the independent existence of spirit and maintains that there is but one substance -MATTER. Oriental spiritualism, on the other hand, emphasizes that the spirit (or soul clothed with the sheaths of the mind) has a real, perhaps the only lasting existence apart from matter. The core of materialism is science, the quest of material TRUTH with the aid of a laboratory,
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 24 of 26
Enlightenment Circle
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
while the core of spiritualism is Mysticism, the scientific art of realizing eternal TRUTH (Creator or Soul, call it what you may) and its message. These two ways of life, one harping only on the creation and the other the Creator, are incomplete and the pages of history have proved beyond doubt their inadequacy to solve the vital problems of life and usher in the millennium. The scientific West has mastered the forces of the physical plane but is yet not happy, groping in the dark for PEACE, material and mental. On the other hand the mystic East which has produced Buddhas, Christs, Ramakrishnas and Sages has badly neglected the material aspect of existence to be subjugated and exploited by powerful material nations and denied their birthright of freedom which has prevented them for centuries from playing their rightful part in deciding the destiny of the globe. It is with pleasure we note the change for the better in world thought today. The impact of western materialism on eastern spiritualism is profound and deep. Oriental politics is waking up from its age long slumber and westerners have started sitting meekly at the feet of mystic Masters in quest of eternal peace and bliss. Very slowly but steadily the world is taking to SCIENTIFIC MYSTICISM which is another name for Kriya Yoga. Kriya Yoga, the most ancient system of Yoga, has been practiced as part of Siva Yoga Siddhantham through the ages, immemorial. It was revived by Kriya Babaji about 1794 years back. Kriya Yoga is a five-fold path of Kriya Hatha Yogum, Kriya Vasi Yogum (pranayam), Kriya Dhyana Yogum (meditation), Kriya Mantra Yogum and Kriya Bhakti Yogum ( the Yoga of Love and Devotion). It is, in short, the gospel of Kriya Mulaguru Babaji Nagaraj as practiced and preached by International Babaji Yoga Sangam. There is only one Guru in the Kriya Yoga Order and that is Sathguru Kriya Babaji, and hence it is called the Babaji Yoga Sangam. Kriya, the Gospel of Scientific Mysticism, is not a creed or cult but an integral WAY OF LIFE, leading to all-round development- mystic, mental, and physical. Jnana means knowledge, mystic and material, and refers to Kriya philosophy. The proper outlook and mental background are essential for progress, otherwise the precious teachings of the Kriya Yogi will go to waste and fail to sprout like seeds sowed in barren ground. The flower-bed must be tilled and prepared to yield the beautiful blossoms of Kriya. Hence the aspirant must necessarily pass through the none-to-pleasant preliminary stage of being examined, studied, and trained by the Guru before being accepted. Mantras are sacred formulae meant to be repeated over and over again; that is japa. The sadhak will have to chant these mantras till the end in view is attained to the satisfaction of the master. Mantra Sastra is a vast, scientific art with different-grades or steps. After one attains mantra siddhi (perfection) one is fit for Dhyana and the aspirant is led step by step into the deeper mysteries of concentration to realize God and attain perfection.
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 25 of 26
Enlightenment Circle
yogaatsms@yahoo.co.uk
The fourth facet of this soul-stirring Gospel is Kriya Kundalini Pranayam, a form of Raja Yoga which has been in existence for centuries and the technique varies from master to master. Receiving the nucleus from Agasthya Maharishi at Shakti Peatam, Courtrallam, South India, Kriya Babaji has become an adept and made His original contributions to the scientific art during His long sojourn at Badrinath, Himalayas. This Kriya technique should not be published and given recklessly for it is a double edged weapon. If practiced under an able experienced master the benefits are immense, otherwise it is definitely dangerous and harmful, hence it is kept a secret to be received from the Guru in private. Further, to begin with, only a simple preliminary initiation will be given and after the aspirant has been made fit through arduous sadhana he or she will be taught the advanced techniques. The last phase and climax of the sadhana is Sathguru Dheeksha (initiation and blessing by the Sathguru). A Guru (master) is one who has realized God and can dispel the darkness of ignorance. He can show the path to God whereas a Sathguru like KRIYA BABAJI of the Himalayas can actually show God to a fit disciple with a touch, glance, or mere wish. In the final stages the Kriya sadhak may reach the goal with one leap after receiving Sathguru Dheeksha. With the blessings of the Kriya Mulaguru, International Babaji Yoga Sangam was founded to propagate this five-fold path of Kriya Yoga. As directed by the Master it was established on October 17, 1952 to spread far and wide the Light of Kriya for the emancipation of suffering humanity. Irrespective of caste, creed and nationality anybody can become a member who would accept Sathguru Babaji as their ideal and SEEK BABAJI TO BECOME A BABAJI. All aspirants will be tested thoroughly before being accepted by the great master (patience and self-sacrifice are indispensable for success) but if one manages to win His omnipotent Grace it will be found, through experience, to be one of the greatest blessings human beings can aspire for. Then the Sathguru will chalk out a distinct course of sadhana for the disciple taking into full consideration his past, the previous sadhana, and temperament. The eminence of the Kriya Mulaguru lies in the fact that His Kriya is not a dull, flat path applied with monotonous uniformity to all, but varied from person to person according to their tastes and fitness. Some become mantra sadhaks (that is, the emphasis is more on mantras), some shine as karma yogis and a few are guided along the path of Kriya Hatha Yoga and so on. All are Overcome to share the mystic treasures of Babaji's Kriya Yoga through International Babaji Yoga Sangam.
Enlightenment Circle, House of Inner Peace, 2 Salisbury Road, Manor Park, London E12 6AB-Tel: 0208 514 4732 Pages 26 of 26