Abstract

Various Yoga techniques could be employed with advantage in the management of psycho.-somatic disorders along with suitable medicines. Through asanas like Shavasana and Makarasana, patients can be helped to relax physically and they can be taught to feel and release tensions working at different levels of existence. Postural substrate can be tackled by judicious use of various corrective-cum-cultural asanas and through proprioceptive and visceroceptive inputs and awareness visceral functions and emotional behavior can be improved. The whole nervous system can be influenced by resorting to suitable breathing in different asanas and through developing awareness of correct pattern of breathing in resting condition. Introduction of pranayama after correcting the breathing pattern shows better effects. Cleansing processes further help for work on the viscero-emotional complex working through the autonomic nervous system. Meditational technique; dietary moderations and reformations and reciting properly selected mantras further help in the treatment of psycho-somatic disorders. The therapist should be well versed with the functioning of the body and mind in order to tackle various responses and reactions to Yoga techniques in patients; otherwise it is better to limit the approach to yogic physical culture.