विष्णुसहस्रनामावलिः शाङ्करभाष्यसमेता /10

quick succession, due to the alternate contraction and
relaxi
 
quication of the abdominal muscles. The naval region
swings inward and out with the maximum amplitude. The
Bhasra can be practised also in the evening provided the
stomach is empty. By this practice, the intestines get
exercised, the digestive powers are greatly improved, the
free circulation of blood is facilitated and the lungs are
strengthened. The bowels also are k succession, due to the alternate contraction and
relaxation of the aept in order bdominal muscles. The naval region
swings inward and out with the maximum amplitude. The
Bhasra can be practised also in the evening provided the
stomach is empty. By this practice, the intestines get
exercised, the digestive powers are greatly improved, the
free circulation of blood is facilitated and the lungs are
strengthened. The bowels also are kept in order by
y
removing constipation. (See Tai. Aranyaka, I, 7-21.)
 

 
Success in Pranayaānāyāma can be attained only if the

diet is a well regulated one (Bh.-Gita, 17. 8 to 10).

Any non-stimulating, simple and nutritious diet will do.

It is well to remember and practise the Vedic ordinance

"Ekavāram Dviväāram Vaā," which enjoins only one meal

a day or at the most two. Seven hours at least must

elapse between any two meals.
 

 
It is very depressing to note that generally Indians,

and especially South Indians, have become physically.

degenerated; the more educated they are the more

physically depressed they have become. The golden

precept enjoining Brahmacharya (restraint) on a Grihasta,

by our SaŚāstras, has been totally ignored. Excessive

indulgence in stimulants, coffee, tea, etc., and in matters.

pertaining to sex, irregular and hurried meals-meals

noted for their flavour alone but not for their sustaining

qualities and want of regular exercise for the body,

have brought about this present condition. Systematic

practice of Pranayaānāyāma by our young men with a well

regulated diet and observance of the principles laid down

for the conduct of the Brahmachaārins and of the Grihastas

will in a generation or two regenerate them into a virile
people.
 

people.
 
These practices do not require any special instructions

from a teacher, and are quite harmless. They are taught