Ashwini Mudra for Youth Vitality: A health-focused look at the “Horse-gesture” for Disease Prevention!!
In the modern “age of development,” Sant Asaramji Bapu observes that many youth are actually entering an “age of destruction” (vinash ka yug). In this era, pure air, pure food, and pure values (sanskaras) are hard to find, leading to a generation that often feels irritable, hollow, and physically depleted. Bapuji notes with concern that the “storm of lust” (kaam-vasna ki aandhi) often causes youth to waste their vital energy, known as Ojas-Tejas (vitality and luster), through the lower centers of the body.
To combat this physical and moral decay, Pujyashree offers ancient yogic tools designed to restore health, strengthen the mind, and protect the character of the younger generation. One such powerful practice is स्थल-बस्तत या अश्न्विी मुद्रा (Sthal-basti ya Ashwini Mudra), commonly known as the “horse-gesture.” This simple yet profound technique is a cornerstone of the health-focused lifestyle promoted during Matri Pitri Poojan Diwas (Parents Worship Day).
Focused Explanation: How to Perform Ashwini Mudra
The name “Ashwini” is derived from the horse, as the gesture mimics the natural muscle movements of a horse. Sant Asaramji Bapu provides clear, step-by-step instructions for youth to perform this mudra effectively:
1. Timing and Setting: The practice should be done in the morning on an empty stomach. Use a mat or a blanket (kambal) to insulate the body from the ground.
2. Posture: Lie down in शवासि (Shavasana or corpse pose). It is recommended to keep the head facing either East or South.
3. The Breath: Exhale all the air from your lungs completely.
4. The Action: While the breath is held out, contract and expand the anal sphincter 30 to 40 times (३०-४० बार गुर्दाद्वार का आकंुचि-प्रसरण करें). Bapuji explains that this should be done exactly like a horse does after releasing dung.
5. Repetition: Repeat this entire process 4 to 5 times.
The Health Benefits: A Shield Against 132 Diseases
According to the teachings of Pujyashree, the regular practice of Ashwini Mudra is a “panacea” for various physical and energetic ailments:
• Disease Prevention: It is stated that this mudra helps in overcoming १३२ प्रकार की बीमाररयााँ (132 types of diseases).
• Vitality and Reproductive Health: It is specifically beneficial for curing white discharge (shwet-pradar), sperm loss (dhatu-kshey), and nightfall (swapna-dosh), which are often concerns for developing youth.
• Digestive Strength: It helps in removing various stomach disorders (pet ke vikar).
• Upward Flow of Energy: Most importantly, it helps make the कंुडमलिी शच्क्त (Kundalini power) and प्राणशच्क्त (life force) flow upwards (ऊध्वयगामी). In the yogic tradition, when energy flows upward to the higher centers, it produces insight, intellectual power (buddhi-shakti), and a lasting nectar of joy.
Relevance to Parents Worship Day
The inclusion of Ashwini Mudra in the context of Matri Pitri Poojan Diwas is highly strategic. Sant Asaramji Bapu teaches that real love resides in the higher centers of the body, while lust resides in the lower centers. By practicing Ashwini Mudra, youth physically pull their energy away from the lower centers of “excitement and blindness” toward the higher centers of “understanding and wisdom.”
This physical practice supports the spiritual goal of संयम (Sanyam or restraint). On February 14th, while many waste their vitality in sensory attractions, those following Bapuji’s guidance use tools like Ashwini Mudra to preserve their ब्रह्मचयय (Brahmacharya or celibacy). This preservation of energy is what leads to academic excellence and a “character-rich” (saccharitra) life. When a child is physically healthy and mentally focused through such practices, they are better able to serve their parents and achieve their life goals (lakshyabhedi).
Key Takeaways
• Horse-Like Vitality: Named after the horse, this mudra provides strength and prevents the “hollowing out” of youth.
• Comprehensive Healing: Regular practice addresses 132 different diseases and digestive issues.
• Energy Management: It transforms downward-flowing energy into upward-flowing life force, enhancing memory and focus.
• Complement to Values: Physical health through mudras is a vital companion to the moral values celebrated on Parents Worship Day.
• Academic Edge: Preserving vitality through Sanyam leads to better results in studies and career.
Conclusion
Sant Asaramji Bapu often says, “If you want to become great, the methods are easy; you simply have to walk the path.” Ashwini Mudra is one such easy yet “priceless treasure” (anmol khazana) offered to the modern world. By spending just a few minutes each morning on this “horse-gesture,” youth can build a foundation of disease-free health and mental clarity. As we celebrate Matri Pitri Poojan, let us remember that a healthy body is the temple for a respectful heart. By protecting our physical vitality, we honor the life and the values given to us by our parents.
