Overview of Gheranda Samhita
Overview of Gheranda Samhita
This chapter is based on the assumption that training of the body is the first step to training of the mind (Raja Yoga) just like unbaked earthen pot if thrown in water, the body is soon decayed (in this world) and if the body is baked hard in the fire of training, it is strengthened and purified.
So, the yoga that has been discussed in Gheranda Samhita is called Ghathasta Yoga. “Gatha” refers to the body. Ghathasta Yoga means Yoga based approach through the body and the training of the body is the first step to the training of the mind.
We will discuss important points extracted from the first chapter of Gheranda Samhita.
- There is no prisoners’ chain like that of Maya, i.e. Illusion, no strength which comes from the Yoga Discipline, no friend higher than knowledge (Jnana) and no greater enemy than Egoism (Ahankara).
- 7 Chapters have been mentioned in this Samhita (Remember the sequence of chapters for exam purpose)
- 1st Chapter relates to the purification by the regular performance of six practices (Shatkarmas).
- 2nd Chapter relates to strengthening by Asanas
- 3rd Chapter relates to Steadiness (Sthirtha)/Stability by Mudras
- 4th Chapter relates to Calmness (Dhairyata) by Pratyahara
- 5th Chapter relates to Lightness (Laghima) by Pranayama
- 6th Chapter relates to Perception by Dhyana
- 7th Chapter relates to Nirlipta (Isolation) by Samadhi (Freedom).
Exam Points: There is always confusion whether Pratyahara or Pranayama comes after Mudras. Check again.
Shatkarmas in Gheranda Samhita
Let’s have over view of the Shatkarmas as described in Gheranda Samhita. These are Six Purificatory Processes (Remember its sequence for exam purpose)
- Dhauti
- Basti
- Neti
- Laukiki
- Trataka
- Kapalbhati
Mnemonics: Do Best N Love True Knowledge. (If you get any new mnemonics, please do share with us, we will add here.)
