The Nervous System in Yoga and Tantra (Study)
by Ashok Majumdar | 1981 | 72,079 words
This study deals with the presentation of the Nervous System in Yoga, Tantra and Ayurveda. Yoga and Ayurveda are allied sciences dealing with science of man in depth. Whereas Yoga and Tantra are the rich sources for the knowledge of nervous system and its biological and metaphysical aspects. This study has revealed a number of hither to unknown fac...
5. Siddhis (supernatual powers)
Certain supernatual powers are said to be acquired by the yogis in the course of yoga practices. The following eight siddhis are generally mentioned in this connection: anima (becoming extremely small), Laghima (becoming extremely light), Prapti (ability to reach everywhere), prakamyam ( ability to fulfil every wish) mahima (becoming extemely big), isitvam (universal sovereignty), Vasitvam (control over everything), and Kamavasayita (self-control). The yoga teachers describe the siddhis as obstacles towards the ultimate goal. As such they forbid yogis from other practising or exhibiting them. They serve only one good purpose during yoga when the yogi comes to possess such powers, he can be sure that his is following the right path; otherwise there powers won't come. But only by disregarding these Siddhis and not indulging in them, can one hope to reach the goal of ultimate realization.