Yogic Management of Agni w.s.r to Gastrointestinal Disorders: DOI: 10.47223/IRJAY.2023.61011

Sushmita Ghimire; Durgawati Devi; Bihani Sanjyal

doi:10.47223/IRJAY.2023.61011

Authors

Sushmita Ghimire 1 PG Scholar, Department of Swasthavritta and Yoga, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India https://orcid.org/0009-0000-8607-6978
Durgawati Devi Professor and Head, Department of Swasthavritta and Yoga, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Bihani Sanjyal PG Scholar, Prasuti Tantra Evam Stri Roga Department, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47223/IRJAY.2023.61011

Keywords:

Agni, Asanas, Gastrointestinal health, Mudra, Pranayama, Stress

Abstract

Introduction: Ayurveda emphasizes the role of Agni (digestive fire) in maintaining health and influencing both physical and mental factors. Gastrointestinal disorders are often rooted in imbalanced Agni. Yoga, a holistic practice, is essential for physical and mental well-being, making it a potential solution for managing such disorders.

Methods: This study critically reviewed classical texts of Hatha Yoga, analyzing practices directly related to Agni Deepana and gastrointestinal disorders. Key texts included Hatha yoga P radipika, Hatha Ratnavali, and Gheranda Samhita.

Results: Hatha Yoga, a branch focusing on physical practices, offers various techniques such as Shatkarma, Asana, Pranayama, Mudra, and more. These practices, aimed at cleansing and strengthening the body, have direct indications for gastrointestinal issues. Ayurveda identifies unhealthy lifestyle, dietary habits, and negative emotions as contributors to imbalanced Agni and related disorders. Stress plays a significant role, triggering various gastrointestinal issues.

Discussion: Yoga practices positively impact the body’s hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, crucial for metabolic balance. Physical aspects of Yoga, combined with breath control and awareness, stimulate organ health through diverse pathways. Practices such as Nadi Shodhana Pranayama induce parasympathetic dominance, aiding digestion. In addition, Yoga enhances mental stability, alleviating stress-related factors contributing to gastrointestinal disorders.

Conclusion: Mandagni is identified as the root cause of gastrointestinal disorders. This study highlights the critical role of Yoga, specifically Hatha Yoga practices, in addressing imbalanced Agni and related disorders. By targeting both physical and mental aspects, Yoga proves to be a holistic approach for managing gastrointestinal disorders exacerbated by stress and negative emotions.