How Thoughts Impact Your Health – Manifest Health (VICHAR VATA)

The vital importance of regulation of our thoughts is a means in controlling health. Controlling the mind controls the body and vis-a-versa.

A thought can so act upon the vasomotor nerves to cause a constriction of the capillaries and force the blood out so that it is noticeable in a blanched cheek. The same class of nerves which causes a contraction of the capillaries of the face may cause constriction of the capillaries in the digestive organs and, from there, our reproductive organs. The entire body interferes with nutrition, circulation and digestion.

As per Ayurveda, the oldest science of health, it is Vata (air element) which governs the nervous system and is an integral part of Mind (Manas or Psyche). Ayurveda teaches us how, by healthy diet and proper timing in our eating and living habits, we can control that air element and, through that, control our emotion and thought processes. Yoga and breathing exercises like Pranayama flashlight on this topic magnificently.

In Mantra Science of Ayurveda and Yoga, we are taught that, even before eating our food, there are prayers to respect that Vata (air element) like the one below:

• • PRANAYA SWAHA || Helps in intake of food.
  • APANAYA SWAHA || Helps in downward movement of food.
  • VYANAYA SWAHA | | Helps in distribution of food and nutrition.
  • UDANAYA SWAHA | | Helps in distribution in heart and lungs.
  • SAMANAYA SWAHA || Helps in proper digestion of food for body and mind.
  • PRUTHVI HI SWAHA | | With respect I offer to Mother Earth.
  • ANTARIKSHA SWAHA || With respect I offer to my entire inner and outer universe.

Here “Swaha” means to offer.

All beliefs, religious or otherwise, keep the nerves well-poised if they are positive and calm. All the Yogic balances and exercises, if done properly, calm the mind and nervous system and can then manifest health. All healthy diets that enhance positive and well-balanced thought processes help our mind, body, and soul a great deal. The thoughts upon themes of happiness, healing, love, and peace have a sound physiological basis in their effects on health.