Sahaja Yoga: Difference between revisions

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Jump to navigation Jump to search
Browse history interactively
← Previous editNext edit →
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
Sfacets (talk | contribs)
12,015 edits
further rvt - these people are not otherwise notable outside the organisation.
Will Beback (talk | contribs)
112,162 edits
rm citations to site deemed "unreliable" by Sfacets. added {fact} where needed.. See talk
Line 13: Line 13:
}}
}}


'''Sahaja Yoga''' <!--source needed (Saha meaning ''spontaneous'', -ja meaning ''born within'', and Yoga meaning ''union'')--> is a form of [[meditation]], created by [[Nirmala Srivastava]], more widely known as "Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi" or "Mother" by followers - who worship her as an incarnation of the [[Adi Shakti]].<ref>[http://www.sahajayoga.org/swan/view/swan_338_2005.asp Invitation to Shri Adi Shakti Puja 2005]</ref> The term Sahaja Yoga is also used to refer to the '''Sahaja Yoga International''' ('''Vishwa Nirmala Dharma''') organization, a '[[new religious movement]]' which she founded in 1970 in [[Nargol]], India.<ref>Coney, Judith (1999) ''Sahaja Yoga: Socializing Processes in a South Asian New Religious Movement'', (London: Curzon Press) ISBN 0-7007-1061-2</ref>.
'''Sahaja Yoga''' <!--source needed (Saha meaning ''spontaneous'', -ja meaning ''born within'', and Yoga meaning ''union'')--> is a form of [[meditation]], created by [[Nirmala Srivastava]], more widely known as "Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi" or "Mother" by followers - who worship her as an incarnation of the [[Adi Shakti]].{{fact|date=October 2007}} The term Sahaja Yoga is also used to refer to the '''Sahaja Yoga International''' ('''Vishwa Nirmala Dharma''') organization, a '[[new religious movement]]' which she founded in 1970 in [[Nargol]], India.<ref>Coney, Judith (1999) ''Sahaja Yoga: Socializing Processes in a South Asian New Religious Movement'', (London: Curzon Press) ISBN 0-7007-1061-2</ref>.


The practice and associated organization grew from India and spread internationally, and there are now meditation centers around the world <ref name="centres">http://www.hinduonnet.com/mp/2003/04/07/stories/2003040700860400.htm ''The Hindu'' Monday, Apr 07, 2003 viewed 6 November 2006]</ref>. The methods for practicing Sahaja Yoga are made available free of charge to those interested, and the organization says the practice of Sahaja Yoga results in rapid, even instant [[Self-realization]] and [[Kundalini]] awakening <ref>http://www.sahajayoga.org/</ref>.
The practice and associated organization grew from India and spread internationally, and there are now meditation centers around the world <ref name="centres">http://www.hinduonnet.com/mp/2003/04/07/stories/2003040700860400.htm ''The Hindu'' Monday, Apr 07, 2003 viewed 6 November 2006]</ref>. The methods for practicing Sahaja Yoga are made available free of charge to those interested, and the organization says the practice of Sahaja Yoga results in rapid, even instant [[Self-realization]] and [[Kundalini]] awakening.{{fact|date=October 2007}}


The practice has also notably been taught to prisoners in Italy and the United States, such as at [[Rikers Island]] to "help the prisoners' social, psychological and spiritual recovery"<ref>[http://www.queenstribune.com/leisure/AnUnlikelySourceForMeditat.html An Unlikely Source for Meditative Study] - Queen's tribune online</ref><ref name="prisonitalia">[http://www.newstarget.com/016026.html Rome prison (Italy) will begin offering meditation and yoga to inmates] Mirror of an article appearing in [[ANSAmed|Ansa]]</ref>
The practice has also notably been taught to prisoners in Italy and the United States, such as at [[Rikers Island]] to "help the prisoners' social, psychological and spiritual recovery"<ref>[http://www.queenstribune.com/leisure/AnUnlikelySourceForMeditat.html An Unlikely Source for Meditative Study] - Queen's tribune online</ref><ref name="prisonitalia">[http://www.newstarget.com/016026.html Rome prison (Italy) will begin offering meditation and yoga to inmates] Mirror of an article appearing in [[ANSAmed|Ansa]]</ref>
Line 21: Line 21:
==Sahaja Yoga meditation==
==Sahaja Yoga meditation==
{{Main|Sahaja Yoga meditation}}
{{Main|Sahaja Yoga meditation}}
Sahaja Yoga meditation is the meditative method taught by Nirmala Srivastava since 1970, and which is followed and promoted among and by the Sahaja Yoga organization. The meditation is described as a syncretism of different religions that "unites the essence of all religions".<ref>[http://www.sahajayoga.org/questionsandanswers/#religion Sahaja Yoga - is Sahaja Yoga a religion? Frequently asked questions viewed 28 September 2007</ref>
Sahaja Yoga meditation is the meditative method taught by Nirmala Srivastava since 1970, and which is followed and promoted among and by the Sahaja Yoga organization. The meditation is described as a syncretism of different religions that "unites the essence of all religions".{{fact|date=October 2007}}


==Medical applications==
==Medical applications==
Some studies have indicated that Sahaja Yoga meditation is effective in addressing various medical ailments. Two studies show results with [[asthma]] patients. <ref>Manocha, R. "Sahaja yoga in asthma", Thorax 2003;58:825-826. URL: [http://thorax.bmjjournals.com/cgi/content/full/58/9/825-a]</ref><ref name="asthma">Manocha R, Marks G.B., Kenchington P., Peters D., Salome C.M. "Sahaja yoga in the management of moderate to severe asthma: a randomized controlled trial",'' Thorax'' 2003;57:110-115. URL: [http://thorax.bmjjournals.com/cgi/content/full/57/2/110?ijkey=bff45bec0d3e3d04a5dcd6b8b0feb0dc62408778 ]</ref> Short-term effects on asthma have also been noticed, by both objective and subjective measures.<ref name="asthma"/> According to the ''Medical Observer Weekly'', Sahaja Yoga was found to be more effective than other generic forms of meditation in the reduction of stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms.<ref name ="Medical Observer">[http://www.medicalobserver.com.au/displayarticle/index.asp?articleID=3509&templateID=108 "Making sense of meditation"], August 13, 2004, ''Medical Observer Weekly''</ref> A case study showed that test subjects who were practicing Sahaja Yoga meditation had "significant improvement in VCS (Visual Contrast Sensitivity)", and that meditation appeared to bring about changes in some of the electrophysiological responses studied in [[Epilepsy|epileptic]] patients.<ref>Panjwani U., Selvamurthy W., Singh S.H., Gupta H.L., Mukhopadhyay S., Thakur L. "Effect of Sahaja yoga meditation on auditory evoked potentials (AEP) and visual contrast sensitivity (VCS) in epileptics", ''Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback'' 2000;25(1):1-12</ref> Another study indicated that Sahaja Yoga meditation results in fewer and less acute epileptic seizures <ref name="pajwani">Panjwani U, Selvamurthy W, Singh SH, Gupta HL, Thakur L, Rai UC. "Effect of sahaja yoga practice on seizure control & EEG changes in patients of epilepsy." ''Indian J Med Res'' 1996;103: 165-72.[ISI][Medline]</ref> A review of the studies determined that there was insufficient evidence to draw conclusions about the efficacy of Sahaja Yoga in treating epilepsy.<ref>[http://www.cochrane.org/reviews/en/ab001524.html Ramaratnam S, Sridharan K. Yoga for epilepsy. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 1999, Issue 2. Art. No.: CD001524. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001524]</ref> and that further studies were needed.
Some studies have indicated that Sahaja Yoga meditation is effective in addressing various medical ailments. Two studies show results with [[asthma]] patients. <ref>Manocha, R. "Sahaja yoga in asthma", Thorax 2003;58:825-826. URL: [http://thorax.bmjjournals.com/cgi/content/full/58/9/825-a]</ref><ref name="asthma">Manocha R, Marks G.B., Kenchington P., Peters D., Salome C.M. "Sahaja yoga in the management of moderate to severe asthma: a randomized controlled trial",'' Thorax'' 2003;57:110-115. URL: [http://thorax.bmjjournals.com/cgi/content/full/57/2/110?ijkey=bff45bec0d3e3d04a5dcd6b8b0feb0dc62408778 ]</ref> Short-term effects on asthma have also been noticed, by both objective and subjective measures.<ref name="asthma"/> According to the ''Medical Observer Weekly'', Sahaja Yoga was found to be more effective than other generic forms of meditation in the reduction of stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms.<ref name ="Medical Observer">[http://www.medicalobserver.com.au/displayarticle/index.asp?articleID=3509&templateID=108 "Making sense of meditation"], August 13, 2004, ''Medical Observer Weekly''</ref> A case study showed that test subjects who were practicing Sahaja Yoga meditation had "significant improvement in VCS (Visual Contrast Sensitivity)", and that meditation appeared to bring about changes in some of the electrophysiological responses studied in [[Epilepsy|epileptic]] patients.<ref>Panjwani U., Selvamurthy W., Singh S.H., Gupta H.L., Mukhopadhyay S., Thakur L. "Effect of Sahaja yoga meditation on auditory evoked potentials (AEP) and visual contrast sensitivity (VCS) in epileptics", ''Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback'' 2000;25(1):1-12</ref> Another study indicated that Sahaja Yoga meditation results in fewer and less acute epileptic seizures <ref name="pajwani">Panjwani U, Selvamurthy W, Singh SH, Gupta HL, Thakur L, Rai UC. "Effect of sahaja yoga practice on seizure control & EEG changes in patients of epilepsy." ''Indian J Med Res'' 1996;103: 165-72.[ISI][Medline]</ref> A review of the studies determined that there was insufficient evidence to draw conclusions about the efficacy of Sahaja Yoga in treating epilepsy.<ref>[http://www.cochrane.org/reviews/en/ab001524.html Ramaratnam S, Sridharan K. Yoga for epilepsy. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 1999, Issue 2. Art. No.: CD001524. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001524]</ref> and that further studies were needed.


Sahaja Yoga claims that it has cured patients of "high blood pressure, asthma, epilepsy, diabetes, cancer, etc."<ref>http://www.sahajayoga.org.in/Benefits.asp</ref><ref>http://www.apsahaj.org/benefits.html</ref>
Sahaja Yoga claims that it has cured patients of "high blood pressure, asthma, epilepsy, diabetes, cancer, etc."<ref>http://www.apsahaj.org/benefits.html</ref>
SY's commentary on a study by Mishra [RK], et al., 1993, suggests that an observed increase in beta-endorphins for meditating males could explain "so-called miraculous cures"<ref>[http://www.adveho.net/uk/bottom_res_2.html ''"Alterations in physiological parameters during Sahaja Yoga meditation"'', reference-commentary (9)]</ref>. Mishra reported that Sahaja Yoga meditation resulted in a "significant increase" in beta-endorphins between control and meditating subjects.
SY's commentary on a study by Mishra [RK], et al., 1993, suggests that an observed increase in beta-endorphins for meditating males could explain "so-called miraculous cures"<ref>[http://www.adveho.net/uk/bottom_res_2.html ''"Alterations in physiological parameters during Sahaja Yoga meditation"'', reference-commentary (9)]</ref>. Mishra reported that Sahaja Yoga meditation resulted in a "significant increase" in beta-endorphins between control and meditating subjects.
<ref>Ram Mishra, (a.k.a., Prof. Ram K. Mishra[http://www.fhs.mcmaster.ca/psychiatryneuroscience/faculty/mishra/]), Cia Barlas, A. Pradhan), "Effect of meditation on plasma beta-endorphins in humans", 1993, (publication details unknown). Mishra's study abstract [http://www.consciousness.arizona.edu/abstracts.htm no. 257] was web-posted at U. of Arizona Center for Consciousness Studies, Department of Psychology, abstracts page, for speakers on Friday, April 7, (2006?) (server page last modified 2006-03-29). Quote: ''"The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effectiveness of the meditative practice of Sahaja yoga on plasma ß-endorphin levels. .... There was a significant increase (p<0.01) between control and meditating subjects when controlled for age and gender. Female subjects, however, displayed less increase in the ß-endorphins as compared to male subjects. ...."'' </ref>
<ref>Ram Mishra, (a.k.a., Prof. Ram K. Mishra[http://www.fhs.mcmaster.ca/psychiatryneuroscience/faculty/mishra/]), Cia Barlas, A. Pradhan), "Effect of meditation on plasma beta-endorphins in humans", 1993, (publication details unknown). Mishra's study abstract [http://www.consciousness.arizona.edu/abstracts.htm no. 257] was web-posted at U. of Arizona Center for Consciousness Studies, Department of Psychology, abstracts page, for speakers on Friday, April 7, (2006?) (server page last modified 2006-03-29). Quote: ''"The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effectiveness of the meditative practice of Sahaja yoga on plasma ß-endorphin levels. .... There was a significant increase (p<0.01) between control and meditating subjects when controlled for age and gender. Female subjects, however, displayed less increase in the ß-endorphins as compared to male subjects. ...."'' </ref>
Line 35: Line 35:
Shri Nirmala Srivastava has developed a [[liver]] diet to promote better health. [[Sugar#Cane|White cane sugar]], [[white rice]], [[yogurt]], [[ginger]], [[fruit]]s and [[vegetable]]s promote the "cooling" of the liver. [[Alcohol]], fried foods, [[red meat]], [[fish]], [[cream]] and [[chocolate]] are among the foods that are "heating" and thus may be harmful if taken in excess. <ref>[http://www.meditate4free.co.uk/Liver%20Diet.pdf Sahaja Yoga: Liver Diet]</ref>
Shri Nirmala Srivastava has developed a [[liver]] diet to promote better health. [[Sugar#Cane|White cane sugar]], [[white rice]], [[yogurt]], [[ginger]], [[fruit]]s and [[vegetable]]s promote the "cooling" of the liver. [[Alcohol]], fried foods, [[red meat]], [[fish]], [[cream]] and [[chocolate]] are among the foods that are "heating" and thus may be harmful if taken in excess. <ref>[http://www.meditate4free.co.uk/Liver%20Diet.pdf Sahaja Yoga: Liver Diet]</ref>


Water vibrated spiritually can, according to the organization, change the characteristics of water, resulting in purification.<ref>[http://www.sahajayoga.org/researchandbenefits/water_research.asp Research on the effect of vibrations on water]</ref>
Water vibrated spiritually can, according to the organization, change the characteristics of water, resulting in purification.{{fact|date=October 2007}}


==Organization==
==Organization==
The Sahaja Yoga organisation is overseen by the 31-member World Council for the Advancement of Sahaja Yoga (WCASY) (also known as the "Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi Sahaja Yoga World Foundation") that was proposed December 2003 and formed the following year. <ref>[http://www.sahajayoga.org.in/NewsInDetail.asp?NID=61 Message to all the Sahaja Yogis of the world from Arneau de Kalbermatten, Coordinator of the World Council]</ref><ref>[http://www.sahajayoga.org/swan/view/swan_369_2005.asp A productive second session of the WCASY at Guru Puja in New Jersey</ref><ref>http://www.sahajayoga.org/worldcouncil/default.asp</ref> In July 2005 the role of the WCASY was affirmed by [[Chandrika Prasad Srivastava|C. P. Srivastava]] [[Order of St Michael and St George|KCMG]] speaking on behalf of his wife, Shri Mataji. <ref>http://www.sahajayoga.org/swan/view/swan_512_2006.asp Historic video affirming the role of The World Council Of Sahaja Yoga</ref>
The Sahaja Yoga organisation is overseen by the 31-member World Council for the Advancement of Sahaja Yoga (WCASY) (also known as the "Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi Sahaja Yoga World Foundation") that was proposed December 2003 and formed the following year. {{fact|date=October 2007}}In July 2005 the role of the WCASY was affirmed by [[Chandrika Prasad Srivastava|C. P. Srivastava]] [[Order of St Michael and St George|KCMG]] speaking on behalf of his wife, Shri Mataji. {{fact|date=October 2007}}


===Sahaja Yoga International (Vishwa Nirmala Dharma)===
===Sahaja Yoga International (Vishwa Nirmala Dharma)===
[[Image:Vndlogo.gif|right|thumb||Vishwa Nirmala Dharma Logo]]
[[Image:Vndlogo.gif|right|thumb||Vishwa Nirmala Dharma Logo]]
'''Sahaja Yoga International''' (also known as '''Vishwa Nirmala Dharma''') is the organizational part of the movement. Founded in 1970 it has centers in almost 100 countries worldwide.<ref>[http://www.hinduonnet.com/mp/2003/04/07/stories/2003040700860400.htm "A message for one and all"], April 7, 2003, ''[[The Hindu]]''</ref><ref>[http://www.sahajayoga.org/worldwidecontacts/phonelist.asp List of Sahaja Yoga centers]</ref>
'''Sahaja Yoga International''' (also known as '''Vishwa Nirmala Dharma''') is the organizational part of the movement. Founded in 1970 it has centers in almost 100 countries worldwide.<ref>[http://www.hinduonnet.com/mp/2003/04/07/stories/2003040700860400.htm "A message for one and all"], April 7, 2003, ''[[The Hindu]]''</ref>


Sahaja Yoga/Vishwa Nirmala Dharma is a registered [[Organisation]] in many countries such as Columbia[http://www.mininteriorjusticia.gov.co/adminFiles/REGISTRO%20PUBLICO%20ENTIDADES%20RELIGIOSAS%2030-06-2004%20.xls], the United States of America[http://www.un.org/womenwatch/daw/followup/b5ngo.htm], France[http://www.sahajayoga.asso.fr/contact_sahaja-yoga_france/contact_statut_association_sahaja-yoga.htm] (has an "asso.fr" website domain reserved for organisations)[http://www.afnic.fr/obtenir/chartes/nommage-fr/annexe-descriptifs], and Austria[http://www.allamericanpatriots.com/m-news+article+storyid-16247.html]. It is registered as a religion in [[Spain]].<ref>[http://www.sahajayoga.org/swan/view/swan_526_2006.asp Vishwa Nirmala Dharma - Religion in Spain]</ref>
Sahaja Yoga/Vishwa Nirmala Dharma is a registered [[Organisation]] in many countries such as Columbia[http://www.mininteriorjusticia.gov.co/adminFiles/REGISTRO%20PUBLICO%20ENTIDADES%20RELIGIOSAS%2030-06-2004%20.xls], the United States of America[http://www.un.org/womenwatch/daw/followup/b5ngo.htm], France[http://www.sahajayoga.asso.fr/contact_sahaja-yoga_france/contact_statut_association_sahaja-yoga.htm] (has an "asso.fr" website domain reserved for organisations)[http://www.afnic.fr/obtenir/chartes/nommage-fr/annexe-descriptifs], and Austria[http://www.allamericanpatriots.com/m-news+article+storyid-16247.html]. It is registered as a religion in [[Spain]].{{fact|date=October 2007}}


The organization runs [[meditation]], cultural, and charity-related facilities and activities, including
The organization runs [[meditation]], cultural, and charity-related facilities and activities, including
* Radio programs<ref>[http://www.sahajayoga.com.au/level_1/Radio.shtml Sahaja Yoga Radio Programs]</ref><ref>http://www.2ser.com/programs/shows/sahajayoga/?searchterm=sahaja</ref>
* Radio programs<ref>http://www.2ser.com/programs/shows/sahajayoga/?searchterm=sahaja</ref>
* A hospital (described in the above section)
* A hospital (described in the above section)
* As of 2003, the Vishwa Nirmal Prem Ashram, Delhi, a project for the rehabilitation of "destitute women and orphaned children"<ref>[http://www.sahajayoga.org.in/NGOProj.asp Project description] [http://www.blossomtimes.org/site/pdf/BlossomTimes_issue3.pdf interview with Director]</ref>.
* As of 2003, the Vishwa Nirmal Prem Ashram, Delhi, a project for the rehabilitation of "destitute women and orphaned children"<ref>[http://www.sahajayoga.org.in/NGOProj.asp Project description] [http://www.blossomtimes.org/site/pdf/BlossomTimes_issue3.pdf interview with Director]</ref>.
Line 75: Line 75:
{{Expand-section|date=January 2007}}
{{Expand-section|date=January 2007}}
[[Image:Nbhkti.jpg|thumb|right|The Nirmal Bhakti [[Bhajan]] group]]
[[Image:Nbhkti.jpg|thumb|right|The Nirmal Bhakti [[Bhajan]] group]]
Because of the diversity of cultures practicing Sahaja Yoga, a range of different projects focusing on the similarities and differences between cultures was born, including the formation of musical groups playing [[Fusion (music)|fusion]] of different genres, such as Nirmal Bhakti, Sahaj Unlimited and Indialucia including [[Rock and roll]], [[Flamenco]], [[Hip Hop]], [[Qawwali]] and [[Indian classical music]].<ref>http://www.sahajayoga.org/Music</ref><ref>http://turiyasangeet.googlepages.com</ref>
Because of the diversity of cultures practicing Sahaja Yoga, a range of different projects focusing on the similarities and differences between cultures was born, including the formation of musical groups playing [[Fusion (music)|fusion]] of different genres, such as Nirmal Bhakti, Sahaj Unlimited and Indialucia including [[Rock and roll]], [[Flamenco]], [[Hip Hop]], [[Qawwali]] and [[Indian classical music]]{{fact|date=October 2007}}<ref>http://turiyasangeet.googlepages.com</ref>


===Other projects===
===Other projects===
The World Council supports the creation of an 108-room Ashram complex in [[Chhindwara]], near the birthplace of its founder.<ref>[http://www.sahajayoga.org/swan/view/swan_460_2006.asp Shri Mataji’s Holy Birthplace: Chhindwara Project]</ref> Another project is the transfer of her audio and video tapes, many in delicate condition, to digital media. <ref>[http://www.sahajayoga.org/swan/view/swan_510_2006.asp Safeguarding the Original Audio and Video Tapes of Shri Mataji]</ref><ref>[http://www.sahajayoga.org/swan/view/swan_494_2006.asp An Appeal: Safeguarding The Original Audio and Video Tapes Of Shri Mataji]</ref> The founder has given her intellectual property and several of her homes to the trust run by the World Council <ref>[http://www.sahajayoga.org/swan/view/swan_390_2005.asp Gift of Cabella Properties to the World Sahaj Collective]</ref> to be used in future projects by the organization.
The World Council supports the creation of an 108-room Ashram complex in [[Chhindwara]], near the birthplace of its founder.{{fact|date=October 2007}} Another project is the transfer of her audio and video tapes, many in delicate condition, to digital media. {{fact|date=October 2007}} The founder has given her intellectual property and several of her homes to the trust run by the World Council {{fact|date=October 2007}} to be used in future projects by the organization.


Sahaja Yoga held classes during the third annual "Yoga for peace" event in Detroit, which "aims to effect world peace through the power of meditation."<ref>"''Yoga enthusiasts gather to meditate for peace''" - George Hunter [[The Detroit News]] August 13, 2007</ref>
Sahaja Yoga held classes during the third annual "Yoga for peace" event in Detroit, which "aims to effect world peace through the power of meditation."<ref>"''Yoga enthusiasts gather to meditate for peace''" - George Hunter [[The Detroit News]] August 13, 2007</ref>

Revision as of 23:40, 29 October 2007

File:Subtlesys.gif
Sahaja Yoga
FounderShri Mataji Nirmala Devi
Practice emphases
Kundalini
Related schools
Vishwa Nirmala Dharma

Sahaja Yoga is a form of meditation, created by Nirmala Srivastava, more widely known as "Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi" or "Mother" by followers - who worship her as an incarnation of the Adi Shakti.[citation needed] The term Sahaja Yoga is also used to refer to the Sahaja Yoga International (Vishwa Nirmala Dharma) organization, a 'new religious movement' which she founded in 1970 in Nargol, India.[1].

The practice and associated organization grew from India and spread internationally, and there are now meditation centers around the world [2]. The methods for practicing Sahaja Yoga are made available free of charge to those interested, and the organization says the practice of Sahaja Yoga results in rapid, even instant Self-realization and Kundalini awakening.[citation needed]

The practice has also notably been taught to prisoners in Italy and the United States, such as at Rikers Island to "help the prisoners' social, psychological and spiritual recovery"[3][4]

Sahaja Yoga meditation

Main article: Sahaja Yoga meditation

Sahaja Yoga meditation is the meditative method taught by Nirmala Srivastava since 1970, and which is followed and promoted among and by the Sahaja Yoga organization. The meditation is described as a syncretism of different religions that "unites the essence of all religions".[citation needed]

Medical applications

Some studies have indicated that Sahaja Yoga meditation is effective in addressing various medical ailments. Two studies show results with asthma patients. [5][6] Short-term effects on asthma have also been noticed, by both objective and subjective measures.[6] According to the Medical Observer Weekly, Sahaja Yoga was found to be more effective than other generic forms of meditation in the reduction of stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms.[7] A case study showed that test subjects who were practicing Sahaja Yoga meditation had "significant improvement in VCS (Visual Contrast Sensitivity)", and that meditation appeared to bring about changes in some of the electrophysiological responses studied in epileptic patients.[8] Another study indicated that Sahaja Yoga meditation results in fewer and less acute epileptic seizures [9] A review of the studies determined that there was insufficient evidence to draw conclusions about the efficacy of Sahaja Yoga in treating epilepsy.[10] and that further studies were needed.

Sahaja Yoga claims that it has cured patients of "high blood pressure, asthma, epilepsy, diabetes, cancer, etc."[11] SY's commentary on a study by Mishra [RK], et al., 1993, suggests that an observed increase in beta-endorphins for meditating males could explain "so-called miraculous cures"[12]. Mishra reported that Sahaja Yoga meditation resulted in a "significant increase" in beta-endorphins between control and meditating subjects. [13]

The organization runs an international hospital in Mumbai, India, the Sahaja Yoga International Health and Research Centre, which uses Sahaja Yoga methods. This hospital claims to have been successful in curing incurable diseases such as (refractory) high blood pressure, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis.[7][14]

Food

Shri Nirmala Srivastava has developed a liver diet to promote better health. White cane sugar, white rice, yogurt, ginger, fruits and vegetables promote the "cooling" of the liver. Alcohol, fried foods, red meat, fish, cream and chocolate are among the foods that are "heating" and thus may be harmful if taken in excess. [15]

Water vibrated spiritually can, according to the organization, change the characteristics of water, resulting in purification.[citation needed]

Organization

The Sahaja Yoga organisation is overseen by the 31-member World Council for the Advancement of Sahaja Yoga (WCASY) (also known as the "Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi Sahaja Yoga World Foundation") that was proposed December 2003 and formed the following year. [citation needed]In July 2005 the role of the WCASY was affirmed by C. P. Srivastava KCMG speaking on behalf of his wife, Shri Mataji. [citation needed]

Sahaja Yoga International (Vishwa Nirmala Dharma)

File:Vndlogo.gif
Vishwa Nirmala Dharma Logo

Sahaja Yoga International (also known as Vishwa Nirmala Dharma) is the organizational part of the movement. Founded in 1970 it has centers in almost 100 countries worldwide.[16]

Sahaja Yoga/Vishwa Nirmala Dharma is a registered Organisation in many countries such as Columbia[4], the United States of America[5], France[6] (has an "asso.fr" website domain reserved for organisations)[7], and Austria[8]. It is registered as a religion in Spain.[citation needed]

The organization runs meditation, cultural, and charity-related facilities and activities, including

  • Radio programs[17]
  • A hospital (described in the above section)
  • As of 2003, the Vishwa Nirmal Prem Ashram, Delhi, a project for the rehabilitation of "destitute women and orphaned children"[18].
  • The "Shri P. K. Salve Kala Pratishthan," an academy of Indian Classical Music and Fine Arts, in the Vaitarna region, in the state of Maharashtra near Bombay[19].

Vishwa Nirmal Prem ashram

File:Vishwango.jpg
A view of the main building

The Vishwa Nirmala Prem Ashram is a not-for profit project by the NGO Vishwa Nirmala Dharma (Sahaja Yoga International) located in Noida, Delhi, India, opened on December 27, 2003.[citation needed]

It aims at:

  • Providing for basic needs and facilities of the destitute women and children
  • Giving them training and enable them to attain economic independence
  • Assist them in getting appropriate jobs
  • The members of the ashram would also be given spiritual guidance so that after going from the ashram, they would be able to face the difficulties of life in a better way and get appropriate livelihoods to gain self-reliance

Yuvashakti

The organization's youth movement is called "Yuvashakti" (also "Nirmal Shakti Yuva Sangha"), from the Sanskrit words Yuva (Youth) and Shakti (Power).

As well as helping organize Sahaja Yoga events such as Realize America tour,[20] The European realization tour,[21] and Realize Australia,[22] Yuvashakti is active in forums such as the World Youth Conference[23]and TakingITGlobal which aim at discussing global issues, and ways of solving them.

An example of this is the participation in the 2000 "Civil Society & Governance Project"[24] in which Yuvashakti were "instrumental in reaching out to women from the poor communities and providing them with work".

Sahaja Yoga culture

File:Nbhkti.jpg
The Nirmal Bhakti Bhajan group

Because of the diversity of cultures practicing Sahaja Yoga, a range of different projects focusing on the similarities and differences between cultures was born, including the formation of musical groups playing fusion of different genres, such as Nirmal Bhakti, Sahaj Unlimited and Indialucia including Rock and roll, Flamenco, Hip Hop, Qawwali and Indian classical music[citation needed][25]

Other projects

The World Council supports the creation of an 108-room Ashram complex in Chhindwara, near the birthplace of its founder.[citation needed] Another project is the transfer of her audio and video tapes, many in delicate condition, to digital media. [citation needed] The founder has given her intellectual property and several of her homes to the trust run by the World Council [citation needed] to be used in future projects by the organization.

Sahaja Yoga held classes during the third annual "Yoga for peace" event in Detroit, which "aims to effect world peace through the power of meditation."[26]

Criticisms

As of 2001, according to the author David V. Barrett, the movement had been criticized because of encouragement of its members to make donations to pay for Mataji's trips and "expensive properties."[27] Barrett further wrote that some former members say that they were expelled from the movement because they "resisted influence that Mataji had over their lives."[27] According to Barrett, Mataji's degree of control over members' lives has given raise to concerns. [27]

"Cult" allegations

Some sources in the press have reported on "cult" allegations surrounding the movement. In, 2001, The Independent reported that certain ex-members allege: "Sahaja Yoga is a cult which aims to control the minds of its members"[28]. The Evening Standard reported that Sahaja Yoga has been "described as a dangerous cult"[29], and "has a dissident website created by former members listing alleged abuses"[29].

Also in 2001, Australia's AAP reported that a general practitioner had been fined after grabbing a Sahaja Yoga critic "round the head and dragged him over a backyard fence"[30] - the AAP referred to Sahaja Yoga in their report as an "Indian cult"[30]. The physician had been part of a group delivering a letter to the critic from Nirmala Srivastava[30]. In 2005, The Record reported that some critics who feel that the group is a cult "have started Internet sites to detail their accusations.."[31].

See also

References

  1. ^ Coney, Judith (1999) Sahaja Yoga: Socializing Processes in a South Asian New Religious Movement, (London: Curzon Press) ISBN 0-7007-1061-2
  2. ^ http://www.hinduonnet.com/mp/2003/04/07/stories/2003040700860400.htm The Hindu Monday, Apr 07, 2003 viewed 6 November 2006]
  3. ^ An Unlikely Source for Meditative Study - Queen's tribune online
  4. ^ Rome prison (Italy) will begin offering meditation and yoga to inmates Mirror of an article appearing in Ansa
  5. ^ Manocha, R. "Sahaja yoga in asthma", Thorax 2003;58:825-826. URL: [1]
  6. ^ a b Manocha R, Marks G.B., Kenchington P., Peters D., Salome C.M. "Sahaja yoga in the management of moderate to severe asthma: a randomized controlled trial", Thorax 2003;57:110-115. URL: [2]
  7. ^ a b "Making sense of meditation", August 13, 2004, Medical Observer Weekly
  8. ^ Panjwani U., Selvamurthy W., Singh S.H., Gupta H.L., Mukhopadhyay S., Thakur L. "Effect of Sahaja yoga meditation on auditory evoked potentials (AEP) and visual contrast sensitivity (VCS) in epileptics", Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback 2000;25(1):1-12
  9. ^ Panjwani U, Selvamurthy W, Singh SH, Gupta HL, Thakur L, Rai UC. "Effect of sahaja yoga practice on seizure control & EEG changes in patients of epilepsy." Indian J Med Res 1996;103: 165-72.[ISI][Medline]
  10. ^ Ramaratnam S, Sridharan K. Yoga for epilepsy. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 1999, Issue 2. Art. No.: CD001524. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001524
  11. ^ http://www.apsahaj.org/benefits.html
  12. ^ "Alterations in physiological parameters during Sahaja Yoga meditation", reference-commentary (9)
  13. ^ Ram Mishra, (a.k.a., Prof. Ram K. Mishra[3]), Cia Barlas, A. Pradhan), "Effect of meditation on plasma beta-endorphins in humans", 1993, (publication details unknown). Mishra's study abstract no. 257 was web-posted at U. of Arizona Center for Consciousness Studies, Department of Psychology, abstracts page, for speakers on Friday, April 7, (2006?) (server page last modified 2006-03-29). Quote: "The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effectiveness of the meditative practice of Sahaja yoga on plasma ß-endorphin levels. .... There was a significant increase (p<0.01) between control and meditating subjects when controlled for age and gender. Female subjects, however, displayed less increase in the ß-endorphins as compared to male subjects. ...."
  14. ^ Medical research literature on Sahaja Yoga meditation
  15. ^ Sahaja Yoga: Liver Diet
  16. ^ "A message for one and all", April 7, 2003, The Hindu
  17. ^ http://www.2ser.com/programs/shows/sahajayoga/?searchterm=sahaja
  18. ^ Project description interview with Director
  19. ^ http://www.pksacademy.com/
  20. ^ http://realizeamerica.com
  21. ^ http://europeanrealisationtour.org
  22. ^ http://www.sahajayoga.com.au/realise_australia
  23. ^ http://www.youthlink.org/globalguide.pdf
  24. ^ Case Study Civil Society & Governance Project, February 2000 Vinita Tatke Viewed 6 November 2006
  25. ^ http://turiyasangeet.googlepages.com
  26. ^ "Yoga enthusiasts gather to meditate for peace" - George Hunter The Detroit News August 13, 2007
  27. ^ a b c Barrett, David V. The New Believers (Cassell 2001) ISBN 0-304-35592-5 pages 297-298
  28. ^ "Shri who must be obeyed; She's been hailed as a saint: a selfless distributor of goodness and light. But, on the eve of her appearance at the Royal Albert Hall, Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi is under attack.", The Independent, London, England, Mary Braid, Beatrice Newbery, July 13, 2001
  29. ^ a b "Monday night with the divine mother.", The Evening Standard, London, England, July 18, 2001, John Crace
    Word has got round that a journalist is asking questions outside Holland Park Comprehensive, where Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi will shortly be addressing her Sahaja Yoga devotees. A smart young man approaches me purposefully. "Do please come inside and listen," he says pleasantly. "Feel free to talk to whomever you want." Access to all areas is not the sort of invite one expects from a group that was last week described as a dangerous cult, has a dissident website created by former members listing alleged abuses and about which the respected Cult...
  30. ^ a b c "Qld: Doctor fined over yoga dispute", AAP General News, Australia, November 12, 2001.
    Brisbane's District Court has been told a GP grabbed a man round the head and dragged him over a backyard fence -- accusing him of befouling members of an Indian cult. The court was told Dr BOHDAN MYRON SHEHOVYCH was among a group delivering a letter to the man from the founder of the meditation religion, Sahaja Yoga. The 52-year-old doctor from the New South Wales central coast today pleaded guilty to entering a house at Mount Ommaney in Brisbane' west and assaulting TERENCE RICHARD BLACKLEY on March 3 this year. The court heard the group was delivering a letter to BLACKLEY from spiritual leader SHRI MATAJI NIRMALA DEVI, alleging spiritual and criminal wrongdoings. Judge KERRY O'BRIEN today told the doctor that someone of his intelligence should have known better than to behave in that manner. He's fined Dr SHEHOVYCH $1,500 but did not record a conviction.
  31. ^ "Hundreds fill weekend with devotion, bliss", The Record, John Chadwick, July 24, 2005, Bergen County, New Jersey. (Local Section)
    The movement has its share of critics, some of whom describe it as a cult and have started Internet sites to detail their accusations. One site portrayed Mataji as a manipulative leader who exercised a high degree of control over members' lives, including arranging and breaking up marriages. "I have witnessed Mataji order loving couples to divorce," one former member said on a Web site.

Further reading

  • Coney, Judith (1999) Sahaja Yoga: Socializing Processes in a South Asian New Religious Movement, (London: Curzon Press) ISBN 0-7007-1061-2
  • Srivastava, Nirmala (1997) Meta Modern Era, (Vishwa Nirmala Dharma) ISBN 8186650059
  • Pullar, Philippa (1984) The Shortest Journey, ISBN 0-04-291018-8
  • Kakar, Sudhir (1984) Shamans, Mystics and Doctors: A Psychological Inquiry into India and Its Healing Traditions, ISBN 0-226-42279-8
  • Rai, Umesh (1993) Medical science enlightened: new insight into vibratory awareness for holistic health care (New Delhi: Life Eternal Trust) ISBN 81-900325-0-X
  • Descieux, Flore (1995) The Light of the Koran: Knowledge through Sahaja Yoga (Paris: La Pensee Universelle, 1995; English translation: New Delhi: Ritana Books, 1998) ISBN 8185250026
  • Apte, Arun (1997) Music and Sahaja Yoga (Pune: NITL)
  • de Kalbermatten, Gregoire (2003) The Third Advent (New York: daisyamerica, 2003; Melbourne: Penguin Australia, 2004; Delhi: Penguin India, 2004) ISBN 1-932406-07-7
  • Powell, Nigel (2004) Sahaja Yoga Meditation (Corvalis Publishing) ISBN 0-954-85190-0
Sahaja Yoga International
Yuvashakti
Critical sites
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Sahaja_Yoga&oldid=167963872"