Yoga and its integration in modern education
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Yoga and its integration in modern education
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
B. P. Desai
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Yoga and its integration in modern education
Year: 1987
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
This paper by B. P. Desai discusses the integration of Yoga into modern education as a means to enhance human potentialities. It begins with defining key concepts such as education, modern education, yoga, and integration. Education is described as a holistic process aiming at personal growth, while modern education focuses primarily on scientific and technological advancement, often at the expense of moral, cultural, and social values. The paper argues that Yoga can play a pivotal role in harmonizing the different aspects of human existence—body, mind, intellect, and spirit—when integrated into contemporary educational systems.
The Importance of Integration
The concept of integration is central to Desai's argument. Integration is defined as the process of combining different components into a cohesive whole. In the context of modern education, the disintegration of physical, mental, and emotional aspects of individuals is highlighted as a significant concern. The paper posits that incorporating Yoga into education can help achieve this integration by utilizing its various dimensions—such as the Yama and Niyama ethical guidelines, Asanas, and Pranayama practices—to bring harmony among one's external and internal behaviors. By fostering this wholeness, individuals can achieve better mental health and a balanced life, which is essential in today's fast-paced, technology-driven society.
Conclusion
Desai concludes that the integration of Yoga into modern education is not just beneficial but necessary to cultivate well-rounded individuals who can navigate the complexities of modern life. He emphasizes that Yoga practices should gradually evolve in educational curricula, starting with physical training at the school level, moving to more sophisticated concepts in higher education, and culminating in advanced applications at professional and research levels. By reinforcing the balance between analytical and synthetic faculties and encouraging a complete understanding of self, modern education can produce a generation that is not only intellectually competent but also spiritually and emotionally sound.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main goal of integrating yoga into modern education?
The main goal is to harmonize traditional spiritual values with modern scientific education, fostering a holistic development of individuals including their physical, mental, intellect, and spiritual components.
What are the different aspects of education discussed in the text?
The text discusses four categories of education: Moral, Religious, Cultural, and Social Education, as well as Applied Education, which includes Technical and Vocational Education tailored to human needs.
How should yoga be introduced at various educational levels?
Yoga should be introduced as physical training in schools, anatomically and physiologically in high schools, focused on mind culture in colleges, and spiritual culture at university level.
What are the time commitments required for yoga practice?
A young individual should practice yoga for two hours daily, with six weeks for physical aspects, ten to twelve years for intellectual development, and over twelve years for spiritual development.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Yoga and its integration in modern education�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Yoga (YogÄ):
Yoga is the science of conscious evolution and realisation of one’s self and holistic human potentialities. It integrates various aspects of human existence—body, mind, intellect, and spirit—promoting harmony necessary for individual well-being and societal balance. Its practices enhance personal growth and development.
2) Science (Scientific):
Scientific pertains to the principles and methods of science, emphasizing systematic and empirical approaches to knowledge and truth. This is crucial in modern education, fostering a culture of inquiry and critical thinking, while addressing the integration of traditional knowledge systems like yoga with contemporary scientific understanding.
3) Training:
Training encompasses structured activities aimed at developing specific skills or knowledge. In educational contexts, it is vital for acquiring competencies necessary for personal and professional growth. Integrating yoga as a form of training facilitates physical, mental, and emotional development, enhancing overall educational outcomes.
4) Knowledge:
Knowledge is the accumulation of facts, information, and understanding about the world. It involves the cognitive engagement with various subjects including science, philosophy, and yoga. Integrating yoga in education enhances participants' knowledge of self, improving awareness and fostering holistic personal development.
5) Samadhi (SamÄdhi):
Samadhi represents the ultimate state of consciousness in yoga, characterized by deep meditative absorption and union with the object of meditation. It signifies the culmination of yogic practice where the individual experiences pure awareness, leading to self-realization and a profound understanding of existence.
6) Dharana (Dharaṇa, DhÄraṇa, DhÄraṇÄ�):
Dharana refers to the practice of focused concentration, a preliminary stage of meditation in yoga. It involves the ability to direct the mind toward a single point of focus, fostering mental discipline and clarity, thus preparing individuals for deeper states of meditation and self-awareness.
7) Dhyana (DhyÄna, DhyÄnÄ):
Dhyana denotes the practice of meditation, going beyond concentration (dharana) to achieve a deep, uninterrupted flow of thought. It is essential for cultivating mindfulness and self-awareness, enabling practitioners to connect with their inner selves and achieve tranquility, personal insight, and emotional balance.
8) Asana (Āśana, Ä€sana, AÅ›anÄ, AÅ›ana, Ashana, AsaṇÄ�):
Asana refers to the physical postures in yoga, designed to enhance physiological health and flexibility. Regular practice of asanas improves bodily strength, promotes relaxation, and serves as a foundation for other yogic practices, contributing significantly to physical well-being and mental clarity.
9) Hand:
Hand symbolizes action and involvement in yoga practices. It represents the means through which practitioners engage in yogic activities, such as performing asanas or using mudras, which influence the flow of energy in the body and facilitate deeper states of meditation and awareness.
10) Pratyahara (PratyÄhÄra):
Pratyahara signifies the withdrawal of the senses, a critical step in yoga aimed at turning inward to establish control over sensory distractions. This practice fosters greater self-awareness and prepares the mind for deep concentration and meditation, enhancing the overall yogic experience.
11) Niyama (NiyÄma):
Niyama consists of personal ethical observances that guide an individual’s behavior in yoga. It fosters self-discipline and personal growth through principles such as cleanliness, contentment, austerity, self-study, and surrender. Practicing niyama leads to a deeper understanding of self and relational harmony.
12) Yama (YÄma, YÄmÄ):
Yama refers to moral and ethical guidelines in yoga that govern interpersonal conduct. This foundational aspect promotes virtues like non-violence, truthfulness, and integrity, thereby supporting healthy relationships and social harmony, essential for individual and collective well-being in society.
13) Tapa (TÄpa, TapÄ, ṬÄpÄ):
Tapa signifies austerity or self-discipline in yoga, involving practices aimed at mental and physical purification. It cultivates resilience and endurance, fostering a deeper commitment to personal growth and self-realization through disciplined conduct and mindful living, essential for spiritual development.
14) Mental disorder:
Mental disorder encompasses a range of psychological conditions that interfere with an individual's cognitive, emotional, and social functioning. Understanding these disorders is crucial in educational contexts, facilitating targeted interventions to promote mental health and well-being, emphasizing the integration of yoga for holistic healing.
15) Mental health:
Mental health refers to emotional, psychological, and social well-being, affecting how individuals think, feel, and act. It’s crucial for overall health, and integrating yoga practices can significantly enhance mental health by promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and fostering resilience and psychological stability.
16) Vaisheshika (Vaiseshika, Vaiśeṣika, Vaishesika):
Vaiseshika is one of the six classical schools of Indian philosophy focusing on metaphysics and the nature of reality. It emphasizes analytical thinking and categorizing the world, contributing to the understanding of human existence that can harmonize with the scientific principles in education.
17) Evolution:
Evolution refers to the gradual development and progression over time, particularly in the context of human growth and potential. In yoga, it signifies the journey toward self-realization and higher states of consciousness, reflecting the continuous process of learning and integrating life experiences.
18) Activity:
Activity pertains to engagement in tasks or exercises, which in yoga includes physical postures, breath control, and meditation practices. Such activities are essential for cultivating focus, discipline, and well-being, highlighting the significance of integrating physical and mental activities in educational frameworks.
19) Samkhya (SÄá¹…khya, SaṃkhyÄ, SÄṃkhya, Saá¹…khyÄ, Sankhya, Shankhya, Saṃkhya):
Samkhya is another classical school of Indian philosophy that provides a theoretical framework for understanding consciousness, the nature of reality, and the duality of spirit and matter. Its concepts contribute to the philosophical foundation of yoga, enhancing educational approaches to integrate science with holistic practices.
20) Purusha (Puruṣa, Pūruṣa):
Purusa refers to the true self or consciousness in yoga philosophy, distinct from the mind and body. Recognizing purusa is vital for self-realization and spiritual growth, guiding individuals towards understanding their essence and integrating this awareness within educational practices.
21) Reason:
Reason encompasses logical thinking and rational analysis, crucial in education for decision-making and problem-solving. Integrating yoga fosters reasoning skills by enhancing self-awareness and emotional intelligence, allowing learners to approach challenges with a balanced and thoughtful perspective.
22) Manas (Mano, Manash, MÄṇo):
Manas refers to the mind in yogic philosophy, representing the mental faculties of thought, emotion, and perception. Understanding manas is essential for cultivating mindfulness and controlling mental disturbances through yoga practices, promoting mental clarity and emotional stability in educational contexts.
23) Sutra (Sūtra):
Sutra denotes the aphoristic texts that encapsulate key philosophical teachings, providing guidelines for practice. In yoga, sutras serve as foundational principles, guiding practitioners in their understanding and implementation of yogic practices, thus contributing to a structured educational approach.
24) Mana (MÄṇa, MÄna, Maṉa, MaṉÄ�, MÄṉa, MÄṉÄ�):
Mana relates to the mind or mental functions in the context of yoga, often associated with the process of perception and cognition. Acknowledging mana’s role is vital for shaping mental and emotional balance through yoga practices, directly impacting overall well-being and self-awareness.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Yoga and its integration in modern education�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Religious education, Moral education, Modern education, Behavioral processes.
Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.
Kaivalya, Harmony between, Cultural education.