Astrology to predict stress and depression

In this article I will discuss how Astrology can be used to find out early on the danger of getting into mental depression, due to unbearable stress, is likely and if one can avoid it. 

We associate mental activities with Moon as the word lunatic implies. We also know that those suffering mental illness, experience the most during full Moon and  new Moon days. The tides are also affected on these days. Whether any connection exists between the two, due to gravitational pull of the Sun and the Moon on Earth, we cannot say. We note that the mind and Moon have some connection. In the Vedas, under Purushasuktha, under the discussion of the cosmology of the universe, there is a reference to the Moon as a creation of the Mind of God.

In Indian astrology,  a person's mind is examined from the position of the Moon in the Birth chart. We know that Moon owns the sign Cancer, and is exalted in Taurus. Even in Taurus if the Moon is in the star constellation of Rohini, (there are 3 parts of Krithika and 2 parts of Mrigasirsha star, after Rohini, which is in the middle of these two) it is more powerful. If the Moon is in Cancer or in Taurus, it becomes very strong. That person will have great mental powers, and high level of creativity. In Scorpio, Moon is debilitated and becomes weak. When Scorpio is the sixth house (the Ascendant or Lagna must then be Gemini), or the eighth house, (then Ascendant must be Aries), or the twelfth house, (then Ascendant must be Sagittarius), then a weak Moon in the same house indicates some mental problems. In addition if malefic planets like Mars, Sun, Saturn, Rahu, Kethu join the Moon there, or aspect the Moon then the mental problem will be severe one.

Troubles can happen during the moon period (dasa) or the sub periods of Moon in other dasas, or in the dasas or sub dasas of the malefic planets afflicting the Moon.

What to do? Know the likely period of the trouble, be alert and avoid all activities that  can cause stress and lead to depression. If  need arises take quick medical support, or other remedies.If inclined,take to Religious activities, or steps to avert stress suggested in the earlier articles.

To help further, here are some more tips for early detection of stress and depression. As early as 300 BC, Hippocrates, the father of Medicine,has discussed the need of medical help to fight stress and the consequent depression. Recently, Psychologist Walter Cannon (1929) put forward the theory of Mind-Body connection, and said that the natural protective reaction of the body to a dangerous situation, is  the fight or flight reaction.

 The Canadian scientist-physician, Dr. Hans Selye advanced this with his theory of how the stress response works in 1936. When the brain recognizes danger,series of chemical and physical processes take place for survival. Hypothalamus secretes the hormone CRH,which triggers the pituitary to secrete the hormone,ACTH,which induces the Adrenal gland to produce the stress hormone, cortisol,which goes to the cells to produce the necessary body actions for the flight or fight mechanism. The brain also sends messages through the autonomous nerve system, to the Adrenal gland to produce Adrenaline and norepinephrine,which increase the pulse rate,the blood pressure,restrict the arteries ,to prevent blood loss,releases sugar from the liver and insulin from  the pancreas to produce energy,and all preparations needed for saving the life.

All these are good if the threat were real but, If the threat is only imaginary, these reactions prove to be harmful on the long run, producing high blood pressure,diabetes heart diseases. Through the Mind-Body connection, leads to stress and even depression if the stress becomes constant and unbearable. You can check out the Harvard  Medical School publication of family health guide for early warning signs of stress and depression.

Stress: Headache, back pain, shoulder, stomach pain, indigestion, tight neck and increased pulse rate, sweating palms, restlessness, sleep disorders, tiredness, loss of appetite, sexual problems, and ringing in the ear. We should not conclude that everything mentioned here indicates stress.There could be other reasons. Anyway it is better to become alert to the situation and take steps to avoid troubles.

When unattended stress becomes constant and unbearable, it can lead to a more dangerous state of depression. The Harvard  Medical School publication also gives some warning signs for depression.

Depression: Sadness always, not enjoying things once enjoyed, feeling unwanted, weight loss, sleep disturbances, restlessness, loss of mental clarity, inability to make decisions, hopelessness, despair, forgetfulness, compulsive eating, drinking alcohol and drugs, avoiding social contacts, withdrawn nature, not attending to the usual activities, etc. Once again, we must keep in mind that these could be due to other reasons, but it is safer to be alert and take steps to avoid any trouble.

Before I conclude, a quick look at three types of stresses; Frustration, Conflict and Pressure. Frustration could be caused by a medical treatment not working, picking an unattainable goal, or lack of skill required to perform at work. Conflict arise when facing options that are hard to choose from. Pressure can arise from social or work situations, financial crisis, etc. One should deal with each of these by methods discussed in the earlier articles.

We end here.  

Astrological terminology

I must introduce some Astrological terminology, to start the prediction lessons. I must keep this as short as possible,therefore it must necessarily incomplete, and elementary. Those who get inspired should get into a deeper study.

As mentioned, astrology is a very old subject,developed in many countries at different times. The amazing fact is the common ideas in them.For example, the planet Venus is associated with love and marriage in almost all versions of astrology. If we try to explain this, by logic or physics,by starting to calculate the gravitational pull,and it's effect on the brain etc it is needless to say that the end will be a total failure! To start using a car that you've bought, what you need to know is how to drive and not the knowledge required to become an automobile engineer. How exactly a car engine is working etc is unnecessary for using the car,while it may come in handy sometimes.For watching and enjoying a TV show we need not know the electronic processes taking place inside. Similarly, astrology should be applied, knowing the rules of the game, and using the experience and some intuitive skills. It is my opinion that astrological predictions should not be taken literally, and blindly, rather as a trend of what is likely to happen. So it could be changed by our intelligent changes in our thinking and action. In fact that is what is expected.What is the use of knowing about the future if nothing can be changed? Astrology itself suggests remedial measures to overcome bad events and enhance good effects predicted.That shows, nothing is set in stone. With this important statement, we can now go on.

The Zodiac signs 12 in number,are subdivided into various divisions as mentioned earlier, to locate the planets position as well as the position of the ascendance (Lagna), the spot on the ecliptic (path of the Sun during it's journey in one year, with the stars at the background), rising at the eastern horizon at the time and place of birth. Also, usually only the division into Nine parts (Navamsa division) is used. The other divisions are used for special predictions and require deeper knowledge.The nine- subdivision scheme is also exhibited on a chart representing the 12 Zodiac signs,and will look like the original birth chart.we shall not explain how to construct this chart here, but remark that it can be read with reference to the original birth chart only,not independently. So we have two charts side by side.

Please note that nowadays with the computer software, casting the charts and calculations have become very fast. Only data we need to give are, the place of birth, time of birth, the year, month and date.

Next we learn that the planets own the signs of the Zodiac (seems arbitrary, for we do not know on what basis this was fixed!).  The Sun owns Leo, Moon-Cancer, Mercury-Virgo and Gemini, Venus-Taurus and Libra, Mars-Aries and Scorpio, Jupiter-Sagittarius and Pisces, and Saturn-Capricorn and Aquarius.

Next point, planets get strength in some signs, (exalted) and in the diametrically opposite sign become very weak (debilitated) For example. Sun is exalted in Aries and debilitated in Libra. So we need note only the signs where the planets get exalted. Because we know they will be debilitated in the opposite sign. Thus Moon gets exalted in Taurus, Mercury in Virgo, Venus in Pisces, Mars in Capricorn, Jupiter in Cancer,and Saturn in Libra, get exalted. In the opposite signs they get debilitated respectively.

Next we come to the concept of aspect, also called 'Drishti" in Sanskrit, which means," Look". Each planet looks at the diametrically opposite house from where it is situated. (Zodiac sign).In addition, Jupiter looks at the Fifth and Ninth signs also, and Saturn third and tenth signs and Mars fourth and eighth signs. The diametrically opposite sign is the Seventh sign.

Next and the last we discuss here is the "Karakas".These are the planets giving information about their role played in Human life. Example, The Sun is the "Karaka" for Father. This means, all information about the father of the native of the horoscope must be obtained from the position of the Sun in the horoscope. If the Sun was in Aries,exalted, then the father would be some distinguished person holding high position in the society.The Moon is karaka for mother, Mars for Brothers and Sisters,Mercury for Arts and Education,Venus for marriage and fine arts,and Karaka for the spouse, Jupiter for off- springs,  Saturn for longevity. Along with this we should also note the significance of the Houses or "Bhavas"(Sanskrit word for it ). The first house or bhava is the Ascendant or the Lagna Zodiac sign. Counting this as the first,we go clockwise,counting the next sign as the second, next as third etc till we count twelve signs. From each house we get information about various things in life. We shall list as few of them below.  

First house.( Ascendant,or Lagna) :Nature of the person,Head, Quality of life,health,fame,longevity, etc.
Second house :Wealth, finance,Speech,right eye,teeth,tongue,relatives,face etc.
Third house:Courage,Younger sisters and younger brothers, Throat,Ears, Religious nature,etc.
Fourth house :Education, Mother, house,vehicles,Heart,Friends, etc
Fifth house : Intelligence,Comforts in life,Progeny,maternal uncle, etc
Sixth house: Enemies,Debts, Abdomen,Quarrel, Court disputes, Sickness, Jobs of the nature of services in firms etc
Seventh house : mainly Marriage,Spouse, Happiness in married life,health of the spouse,social status, Divorce etc should be predicted by examining this house.
Eighth house: Longevity,sickness, miseries,sex organs and urinary diseases,etc
Ninth house : Father, preceptors,pilgrimages, foreign travels,Luck,Spiritual progress,paternal wealth, fame etc
Tenth house: Profession, honors, fame, etc
Eleventh house: Gains( financial,job,land,position,), Elder brothers and sisters,paternal uncle,Worship,the knee,etc
Twelfth house :expenses,living in foreign countries,long travels,overseas travels,Happiness with family life etc.

One more information: Some planets are considered beneficial, and some maleficent. Saturn,Mars,Rahu,Kethu,Sun are maleficent,Jupiter, Venus, Moon are beneficent.

Now we have some rudiments of Astrology in our hand and try some predictions.

Suppose in a horoscope we want to examine if there could be a divorce.
The seventh house must be examined. If there is Saturn, a malefic planet, and the owner of that sign is in sixth house(the house of court disputes,and enemy) ,we can predict, there could be difficulty in getting married,and later there could be a divorce.

Next let us take up Profession, then we examine the tenth house. See if there are any beneficial planets are there, the owner of that sign exalted,beneficiary planets aspects(cast their look) that house,if any good feature of this type exists then we can predict a good profession and success there.If this is supported by a good eleventh house(income),that is the owner of that house exalted,Jupiter aspects that house etc then we can more confidently say that.


A good fifth house shows an intelligent person ans blessed with good children.


We can go on like this to find out what coukld be the nature of life,in it's various aspects.

Now one can ask when can we time these events predicted? There are "Dasa" systems to find that out. The most popular system of Dasa used now is Udu dasa,basing on Stellar influence. There are 27 star constellations,called in Sanskrit, Aswini, Bharani etc till Revathy the 27 th. These are in the Zodiac,so are marked in the 12 Zodiac signs, How can 27 be divided by 12 ? The division gives 2 and a quarter.So each star is divided into four parts,1 st,2 nd,3 rd,4 th quarters. Now starting in the first Zodiac sign,Aries we have, the first star,Aswin,next Bharani, and the first quarter of the third star,Krithika. Aries is full now.In the next sign, Tarus, we place,Krithikas other three parts,2,3,4,th in that order. Then the next star,Rohini is taken.It's 4 parts can be placed there,then Mrigasirsha,next star's first two parts can be placed there. Tarus is full,so we go to the next sign Gemini,and continue the process. I shall give the full list of the  27 stars later. Now we shall look at the position of the Moon at the time of birth,in the  Birth chart.The Moon will be in a zodiac sign,at a point where we can find out which star has its part there.For example, let us say in a horoscope, the Moon is in Aries,at a point where the star Bharani's third part falls. Then we say that person has Bharani as the birth star and Aries as the Birth Rasi. Then we go to the Udu dasa system,and learn that each star has allotted to it  a certain number of years ( I think this is also arbitrary,because no where a logical basis for this is given), The first Nine stars are allotted 9 planets in the order gikven below with the years allotted to them.
Kethu-7 years,Venus 20 years.Sun 6 years.Moon 10 years. Mars 7 years. Rahu 18 years.Jupiter 16 years.Saturn 19 years. Mercury 17 years.
In our example the star was Bharani third part. So the person starts life with Venus dasa. But at birth time Moon was in the third part of the star,so the full 20 years cannot be given.More than half is gone ,so less than 10 years are only available. The exact available years to start the life with,can be exactly calculated by proportional division,taking into account the exact longitude of the moon,and how much the moon has progressed in that star.This is simple arithmetic. After this exact calculation add the number of years left at the birth time,in Venus dasa to the Birth date,month and year.We then find when the Venus dasa ends and the next dasa Sun starts. Sun dasa will go on for next six years. So on we can calculate the dasa years for the remaining period also.

We then have to examine the planet,whose dasa period we want to study. In the birth chart and the Navamsa chart we examine the position of that plkanet,and the ownership of the house of that planet,if it is beneficial or not etc and then predict if thast period will be good or bad.

This is a rough out line of the process adopted by Astrologers.The experience,the knowledge,the intuitive skill etc of the astrologer will determine the accuracy of the predictions made.By studying the books like the famous work "The Brahat Jathaka" of the celebrated  Varahamihira who existed in the 6 th century AD( many English translations are available) will be a good starting point.There are also many books in English,describing the Astrology used in Europe for several years,which slightly varies from the Astrology of the East, These also should be studied and compared with the eastern system.In the East we have other systems also such as Jaimini system,Nadi system etc.After getting expertise in one thgen studying others will be more beneficial.

with this we end this article.

Astrological Insights-Introduction

My interest and involvement with Astrology grew naturally even though my career as a scientist, appeared inconsistent with a deep involvement in astrology to many. These were folks who believed that astrology  was not scientific, and they asked me, "is astrology a science?" I used to answer with a smile,  "no, it is an art."

The word scientific is used in a sense that whatever claimed, can be experimentally verified by anyone, anywhere. But they forget that our understanding of science itself, at the most fundamental level, is beyond the experiments within the reach of mankind. The origin of the Universe, space, time, nature of light and matter, are all beyond experimental verification. Undoubtedly, research will continue to improve our understanding of these concepts but, never will we understand everything at the most fundamental level. In Philosophy also, the origin of the Universe and life on the earth are based on some hypothesis or the other. No one has put forth a fundamental theory that can be verified experimentally by any one at any place.

If we carefully examine some great ideas, like the quantum nature of energy, Uncertainty Principle, etc. we recognize that these were creations from the minds of great scientists, who possessed the faculty we call intuition, intellect, etc. (We accept these abstract names without understanding how they function in the body.) that are vital for these discoveries. In the scientific world, there are two ways something can be established, first by an experiment that finds a phenomenon that is justified by a fitting theory.  Second, is to start from a  theory that predicts a phenomenon which is proved by an experiment.

In Astrology also,some prediction is made, which later on proves to be correct.Thus encouraged,people go to Astrology when they need it's help. The Astrology and the allied methods of prediction, have a very long history.For thousands of years,in many cultures now extinct,as well as in many which exist today,these are employed by many.Professionals in these fields are also many. In my experience, I have studied these subjects over 60 years,while I was pursuing a career as a scientist, and I have used the knowledge for social service without any monetary or any other benefits,and have helped hundreds of families.Therefore I venture to propose the use of these predictive arts,even as an experiment, when in great stress or any other difficulty. The subject is very vast and to acquire a good skill in correctly predicting requires some intuitive skills, good knowledge, and experience. Still to get a working knowledge, and to get encouraged to study these fields in greater detail,by those who feel they posses the intuitive skill needed, I shall write a few articles,which will be easy to understand,but not a tutorial material.

Creating a birth chart

Let's start with an understanding about birth charts, why we need one and how to cast or create one.

In this article, a brief introduction of the astronomical elements needed for the Astrology. History of Astronomy is also very old. Without any special instruments,just by looking at the sky from evening to morning,it is possible to recognize groups of stars,and also the appearance of these groups in the Eastern horizon,rising just before the Sun rise,varies gradually over the period of one year,and then the cycle repeats. This we know is due to the Earth going around the Sun periodically,with a period of one year. The groups of stars on the path of Sun's apparent motion( we know that earth is moving around the Sun,so the Sun appears to move in the sky,with the stellar groups at the background) is along a path,a circular path called Zodiac(technical name Ecliptic),which being a full circle,is of  360 degrees of angular distance.The time for one cycle being one year,(12 months),the stellar constellations are divided into 12 parts,so that the Sun spends one month in each of them.The first division is called Aries. The choice of this as the first division,is astronomical, and we need not go into it.

The other parts in clock wise order, are named respectively,Taurus,Gemini,Cancer,Leo,Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces. When a child is born,note the point on the Zodiac sign rising at the eastern horizon(this can be done using the time of birth,at the place of birth,the latitude and longitude of the place,and using a special table for this calculation).Noting this point and the sign in which it is at the time of birth, we note down this sign as the  Ascendant, or in Sanskrit, Lagna (लग्ना ) and is counted as the first house,or in Sanskrit,first Bhava. Then going clockwise,count the Zodiac signs,next to the Ascendant,as the second,the next third etc houses or Bhavas. This is marked on a circular map in which the Zodiac signs are marked,or in any other convenient way. This chart is the Horoscope. in Sanskrit,Lagna Kundali. The next step is to take the Almanac for the year of birth and from it note the positions of the Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter,Venus, Saturn,the ascending node (Rahu),and the descending node (Kethu), for the month and he date of birth,and the time of birth.The angular distance of each of these,measured from the very beginning of the Zodiac constellation Aries,called the first point of Aries (why we count from this point is for Astronomical reason),is called the Longitude of these heavenly bodies. They are noted for each planets (Sun,and Moon, are called planets in Astrology!!) in a tabular form. This table will be used for further calculations. We note that each Zodiac sign will be of angular distance, 30 degrees each,12 of them making a full circle of 360 degrees. The positions as marked now in the Lagna chart, will not tell us where exactly within the sign it is.This of course is given in the Table as Longitude,which is the exact position. For Astrology, we need not know the exact position for the predictions. The Zodiac signs are divided in 16 different ways,First into two,this division is called Hora in Sanskrit (we shall use only the Sanskrit names here after),and the next division is into three parts,called Drekkana and then into other types of divisions, into which we need not go now.The only division that we need is the division into nine parts,called Navamsa. Usually the two charts, Lagna Kundaly, the very first primary chart and the Navamsa chart, alone are exhibited and used for common predictions. The others are used for special purposes,and only by the experts.

Now we are ready for the predictions. We start that in the next article.

Stress reduction by music

In this article, how the stress reducing effect of music is achieved through the Mind-Body connection is discussed.

Imagine a famous singer is giving a speech for an hour and then gives a concert for an hour. The effect produced on you is different. The speech could be very interesting,but the soothing effect of that music is different. The mind is relaxed,and you forget the worries and get  a tranquil, soothing experience. Why we do not get that effect  by the speech ?  The effect produced by the sound of music in the ear,and then in the brain, is different from that produced by the speech. How?

This question has caught the attention of  great thinkers of the past, in different parts of the world,at different times.

The origin of the theory of music, and the place where it started is unknown, at least to me.The earliest mention of a stringed instrument,Harp,is found in the history of Mesopotamia,about 3000 BC. In Egypt similar stringed instruments  were in use about that time.  Obviously these ancient civilizations had the knowledge of the rudiments of music. Pythagoras, who lived in the  sixth century BC. by listening to the Hammer beats of an iron-  smith, discovered that the sound of the hammers when heard in succession,produced pleasing sounds if they weighed 12,9,8, and 6 pounds respectively.From that he derived the idea of an octave,the fifth,the fourth,and the whole tone i.e. 2:1 (12 :6), 3:2 (12:8) , 4:3(12:9) .Note that the numbers given in the brackets are the weights of the hammers and their ratios.The musical scale invented by him, which goes by his name,was discovered in 550 BC.A note, the  fundamental note say,C, of a frequency f , has  at  its  double the frequency 2f ,above it C*, it's Octave. The ratio of C*:C is 2:1.Like this other notes were discovered by him.

The basic idea is, when notes separated by certain intervals of pitch (frequency) alone when sounded in succession sound pleasing,otherwise they sound unpleasant to the human ear. The pleasing notes are the musical notes The tesspeech is not conveyed through the musical notes,hence does not produce the pleasing effect of the music.

 In India, Bharatha, (500 BC) ,famous for the dance system he discovered and goes by his name today,in his famous book classifies the musical  notes used in his time. In India, during vedic period,1000 BC,Sama veda chanting involved notes separated by pleasing intervals only. So Sama veda chanting sounds musical and pleasing. From it evolved other intervals in due course of time.

In  Indian  music, the fundamental frequency interval,which is the minimum interval between two notes sounded in succession,enable the most trained ear to distinguish them as two separate notes,that is to resolve them as two different notes,is called, the  " Sruthi". It is a minute interval of pitch.When two notes sounded in succession sound pleasing only if they are separated by certain number of sruthis. These musical notes were identified,within an Octave, and given names, By grouping these musical notes in groups in ascending and descending pitches, Ragas are formed. Songs were composed using these Ragas. When rendered well they produce a pleasing effect in the Gross body( in the Brain),and by the body-Mind connection,produces a calming effect in the mind. This in turn reduces if not removes the stress in the Mind.

This is the out line of the explanation how Music can be used for stress reduction.

The theoretical  musicology behind the simple explanation given here, is too complicated and mathematical, and hence not discussed here.

Seeking outside influences for stress management

Wrapping up on this series of posts on the subject of stress management, I'd like to mention a few remaining common methods.

Some forms of stress are extreme and require medical help. But grief counseling by well-wishers can also help in cheering up a person. In the case of extremely stressful experiences like job loss, the death of a dear one, divorce, or a natural calamity such as earth quake, tsunami, or tornado our built-in stress release mechanisms kicks in. Contrary to old world beliefs, it's not really a weakness to cry or faint but a natural way by which the body-mind connection lends a helping hand to relieve stress. At times of intense grief, having a well wisher play the role of a psychologist can help the person experiencing the grief by letting them open the inner thoughts in their Astral body (mind). The pain is projected into the Gross body, driven by their Ego. Speaking out unloads the weight of the pain which gives relief from the stress.

There are a myriad ways to deflect the stress generating thoughts so that it doesn't snowball. Pick something that you enjoy doing like sport activities, exercising, socializing, community service, watching movies, a craft, etc. to divert the mind. This is preferable to choices like alcohol or drugs which can only provide temporary relief and lead to addictions.

We've already looked at how religious faith or spirituality can be a powerful method through prayer, meditation, chanting, etc.

Wearing a talisman recommended in an expert you trust is a popular method. When you wear a suitable gem, the energies from the gem is believed to help. Experts in this field can suggest a gem based on your the type of stress you'er going through. The gemologist's recommendation is usually based on some form of astrology, numerology, or palmistry. They also make recommendations how, when, and where the gem should be worn for best results. A diamond is worn for influences of affiliations or benefits of the planet Venus. Another example, to give relief from arthritis pain a red coral is often recommended. This too is a very complex and vast subject that are most rewarding when you work with experts. Great caution is needed to find a true expert.

The bottom line is, to find a way that best suits you to keep the mind away from thoughts causing stress by channeling the mind to alternate thoughts  which gives relief. Do this repeatedly   and happiness follows..

Support therapies for stress management.

Having discussed several methods for stress reduction, today, we'll explore further how to leverage the the body-mind connection to achieve this.

Our senses are the windows through which signals from the external world enter the brain.The processed output impacts both our astral and gross bodies, with the inbuilt mind-body connection. As we saw in a previous post, stress generated in the astral body, in particular the mind, can be reduced or removed by working on the gross body. The chemicals  generated by the gross body, trigger many reactions in the gross body, which in turn affects the mind. For example, alcohol produces such effects.

Some methods by which we can provide an external stimulus to relax the mind include, aroma therapy (nose & skin), color (light) therapy (eyes), massage therapy (skin) and sound therapy (ears).

Each of these therapies is an expansive area for study and practice and have been in practice for centuries. Very serious treatments require consultation with highly skilled practitioners but we'll now look day-to-day stress relief can be achieved by simple applications at home.

Aroma therapy is familiar to us, for example, we use inhalers for cold and incense or perfumes. Essential oils diluted suitably and used in special difusers   are a great way to produce a calming effect. For soothing effects, try oils like Mandarin, Lavender, Neroli,  Roman Chamomile, Clary Sage, Fennel  , Sandalwood, Ylang-ylang, Rose, or Marjoram, Massage therapy using herbal oils are well known in Ayurveda. Soaking in a warm infused with herbal bath oils is an easy way to relax at home.

How aroma affects the senses can differ widely from person to person so, pick your aroma carefully after trying the popular ones. For example, we know how comfort foods reduce stress, the smell of these foods also works like aromatherapy.

Color therapy is another popular way to relax and used in every day life.

Have you noticed how you've suddenly felt comfortable when entering a room painted in a certain color or when you wear certain color clothes? Colors have different effects on different people. The relaxation therapy chooses suitable color schemes to produce pleasing and relaxing effects. Many hospitals and spas use color therapy to make the clients feel relaxed. Here's how color can relax the mind.

External light enters the eyes and generate signals that pass to the brain, where they are processed, to produce multiple reactions in the body and mind. The hypothalamus in the brain sends signals to the pineal gland which controls many rhythms of the body functions. Picking colors that vibe well with your feelings helps, For example, we might feel happier when we wear some colors.

Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep. This in smaller quantities, produce a soothing effect, and can reduce stress.The production of Melatonin is sensitive light. Which is why depression, sadness, stress, dullness, etc. are treated using light therapy. In medicine, light therapy is used for a wide range of tumor treatments.

The most familiar example of sound therapy is  the  pleasing or calming effect of good music. Sounds from nature can help snap one into a relaxed mood. Once again this is an individual choice. Group chanting or singing can produce different effects too. Sounds of various instruments produce different effects and moods. Check how your senses react to various sounds and get a good recording of the ones that relaxes you quickly.

Let's pause here so that you can go explore some aromas, colors and sounds that can relax you. In the post we'll take a look at other avenues like social activities can be great stress relievers.

Using yoga methods for stress management

Today, let's take a look at how Pranayama or breath control can help in stress management and how to do it.

First, a bit about how yoga helps to attain elevated states of consciousness. Pranayama  forms a part of  yoga called Hatayoga. Hatayoga is helpful in getting control over the autonomous nerve system, to achieve elevated altered states of consciousness, like the fourth state. The three other states that we all naturally experience are, wakeful, dream and deep sleep. Beyond  these are the very rarely experienced fourth, fifth, and sixth states called Savikalpa, Nirvikalpa, and Sahaja samadhis. The last mentioned state is attained when one is able to be in a state in which Pure consciousness (the self or the "I" feeling without any other awareness including the body awareness.) This is probably what is termed as depersonalization in Abnormal Psychology.

In the highest state of consciousness, called the self-realized state, "I" am the body sense (Ego) is lost. The pure "I" consciousness exists without attachment to anything. Though psychologists may brand this as an abnormality and advocate treatments, in yoga it's extolled as the final and highest state of consciousness that everyone should strive to reach.

A person who has attained the Sahaja samadhi state might appear to behave just like anyonE else, but internally they don't feel "I am doing this." Their body is able to do work most precisely in effortless ease. Saint Ramana Maharishi achieved this state.

But let's return to our discussion of stress management because the acquisition of the control of the autonomous system, is a dangerous thing to attempt and irreparable unwanted damages can happen unless performed under the expert guidance. One needs to be prepared to take much risk to achieve the super normal powers, promised there. Since our aim is to achieve stress relief and not to create one, we'll take only two basic items from Hatayoga. They are, the sitting posture (Asana) and breath control (Pranayama).

It's essential to sit comfortably, preferably on a mat, for an extended period. Any physical discomfort can prevent one from remaining free of thoughts. The most extolled lotus posture- Padhmasana, can be difficult to master. 

Padhmasana

If you want to try an easier pose like Sukasana,  

sit with both legs stretched out, and then bend one- say the left leg- at the knee and bring it close to the body,and bend the other, right leg at the knee and place the heel over the left thigh (or below the left thigh). You can also alternate on the other side by starting with the right leg. 

The third popular pose is Vajrasana. 

Kneel down with the knees together, the feet facing up and together,then sit on the heels. 

Choose a pose that's most comfortable and then you can start the Pranayama. For this illustration, we use the 4:16:8 inhale:hold: exhale ratio but you may need to adjust it to your comfort:

1. Sit erect with backbone and head straight.
2. Keep left arm on the left thigh relaxed,
3. Keep the right hand thumb on the right nostril. Press and close it.
4. With the right hand ring finger press the left nostril and close it.
5. Keep the other fingers straight and relaxed. 
6. Now open the left nostril by releasing the pressure on the ring finger and exhale completely.
7. Inhale slowly counting up to 4. 
8. Close the nostril by pressing on with the ring finger and hold the breath for a count up to 16, 
9. Open the right nostril by releasing the pressure on the thumb and exhale for a count of 8.
10. Close the nostril with the thumb and quickly open it again to inhale for a count of 4.
11. Close the nostril with the thumb and hold the breath for a count of 16. 
12. Open the left nostril and exhale for a count of 8.
13. Repeat this on the other side by starting with inhaling through the right nostril.

This completes one pranayama cycle. Repeat as many as you can do  comfortably.

Note the asymmetry in the duration of inhaling-holding-exhaling. You will feel, after a few cycles, a feeling of suffocation due to this asymmetry. Change the duration so that you are comfortable.  It's important to maintain the ratio of 1:4:2. The very advanced ratio of 16:64:32 must be done under a guidance of a qualified teacher and only be reached gradually with practice.

Maintaining the uniform ratio,1:1:1 is all we need for stress management. This in effect amounts to be a deep breathing process.When you do this for long periods, you can get to a calm and relaxed state of mind where one forgets their surroundings and even their body. Remaining in this state as long as possible, makes the breathing shallower and shallower gradually, to a state in which there is hardly any breathing (kevalakumbaka ), and the biology is slowed down, and the chemical burning in the life preserving processes alone take place. This state is like hibernation and increases the longevity. The yogis are know to have used this breathing technique to live beyond the maximum span of 120 years.

As you regularly do the pranayama at a regular time every day, you'll start noticing that your mind feels calmer. With continued regular pranayama practice, not only will your stress disappear, but your immune system gets stronger and you'll start enjoying a healthy mind in a healthy body.

How chanting mantras can help in stress management

 In this article,as promised I will give some examples to illustrate the point made earlier.The method of  Mantra applications for Stress relief, to be effective,full faith in that is absolutely necessary. This is not easy to achieve in reality.The root cause of stress is in the Unconscious  region in the Causal body, not within the reach easily. In order to reach the cause there and destroy it requires special efforts. among the several methods, chanting a Mantra or affirmation is a a simple and powerful method.

For Mantra chanting to be successful, one's conscious mind should first be relaxed and quiet ended. Breath control,followed by meditation for long periods and is needed. After the mind becomes thought free, mental chanting of the selected Mantra can begin at a slow speed. One must focus with as much concentration on it as possible. When sufficient repetitions are made, a tranquility will be felt.Then slowly return to the normal state, and will note that the Stress has vanished !!.

In different faiths (religions),different formats are given for Mantras,using different languages.Basic principle is the same.Every religion has a concept of God, supreme power that controls the universe,though not visible to the gross eye,the various actions of such power can be seen or felt everywhere in the universe. Various attributes of this supreme power which manifest in such different ways are used to address this power we call God in English language,and in other languages in equivalent names.This might cause some confusion,but it is only a language problem,content is the same.To be cured from a malady, the name of that attribute of God which will remove that malady will be chosen for deep meditative repetition.

We take the  major religions, Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam.

In Hinduism Mantras of several languages are used.The user must know the language well enough to understand the meaning of the mantra so that it can be chanted with full understanding and faith.We take Gayatry Mantra, the most famous. It is in Sanskrit language of the Vedas,the fundamental scripture of Hinduism. Translated it is seen that this Mantra addresses God in a FORM LESS way,addressing as a Power which motivates the Universe, and there by also every ones Intellect.The mantra says "meditate on that Power".That is all.Since Hinduism employs many forms of Gods(like Greek mythology),people are thinking that Hinduism is polytheism.The Vedas emphasize  that these Gods are only representing the various manifestations of a supreme Power, BRAHMAN (not to be confused with BRAHMA,the creating manifestation of BRAHMAN.Thus the Veda says "Brahman ekam bahudha vadanty," meaning BRAHMAN is unique, and only ONE, but manifests in different ways.Then each according to the manifestation, a name is given to it and called God.  For example, when the BRAHMAN manifests as fire,it is called AGNI,and it is treated as a God,as it is also the "BRAHMAN"-which is the representative word for GOD in Vedas.Thus in Hinduism different  functioning of the Supreme power is treated as a God.This makes it appear as Polytheism,though in reality Vedas Emphasize that BRAHMAN=GOD,is unique and only one.This is known  as ADWAITA (Non duality of God). This was emphasized by the great philosopher Adi Sankara,who established the Hinduism, when Buddism (Buddha philosophy) was widely prevalant in India during his time,estimated as 6thC AD.

Now we take Christianity.The Holy Bible is the  accepted basis. So we must if we have full faith in this religion, we must go to The Holy Bible for the remedy of all sorts of malady.take for example,we get Stressed because we fear some danger,and need protection.Then the Mantra for deep meditative, repeated chanting,with calm mind and full faith,can be:Psalm 91. A qualified person can help with choosing the correct affirmation or Mantra. Those with faith in Christianity should not seek other faiths.


For those who  have faith in Islam, seek help in the Holy QUR'AN .
As an example ,Stress is caused by fear of danger,and remedy is to seek protection.Then the Mantra can be the last two SURAS, 113 and 114.

We can find such methods in other faiths also.We stop here in this topic of Mantra method of Stress relief.

Yoga method most useful in making the Mind quiet is Breath control, called Pranayama in Sanskrit.There are many different Pranayamas. Hatayoga deals with them. We shall go into it in detail,as it is widely used nowadays all over the world.in next article .  

Stress Management- Metaphysical background

On a daily basis, our mind is capable of surfacing challenging questions like, What's the purpose of my life? Why was I born? Is it just a chance with no purpose?  After turning endless wheels and perhaps reading the wisdom passed on from centuries, we come back to the fact that we really don't know.

What we know is, survival on earth is a constant and continuous struggle for all living creatures. The evolution of the species resulted in the Human being, the most evolved being in the animal kingdom. Because of the highly developed cerebral part of the brain humans posses distinctly superior mental qualities.  The human brain can be divided into three parts.The inner most part or the reptilian which has the vital jobs of life preservation.The part surrounding it, the Limbic  system - is the seat of emotions was developed later. Finally above It the Cerebral part, which is responsible for all those qualities which separate Humans from the rest. This developed when the physical body lost the skills for survival and it's defense system proved to be inadequate. Clever methods were needed. So the cerebral part became more developed more as the physical body got weaker and weaker. The human life style became more withdrawn from Nature, creativity, thinking, contemplation, recording the thoughts, discussing them with other Humans with better developed communication skills, separated humans from the rest of the creatures. As the imaginary faculty created many thoughts, the stress response resulted in increased harm to the body by producing unnecessary hormones.

The fundamental thought is, the thought about the physical body or body awareness "I am this body" referred to as the Ego by the psychologists.This faculty drives the body according to the output of the faculty called Intellect. The intellect (intelligently) analyses the thoughts cropping up and recommends the ego to drive the body accordingly. For safety, the ego is given the power to analyze the recommendation further,and make it's own decision and drive the body accordingly. The ego's decision is final.

For convenience, the body, is classified into three parts. Gross body (the physical body which we see)- The Astral body (which is also called Subtle body), and the Causal body. The Astral body is made up of the abstract entities, mind intellect, and ego. The Causal body, the subtlest part is the unconscious layer. Though felt as unconscious, because we are not able to know what is happening there, it is the most alert part keeping vigilant watch over the safety of the body even when we sleep, The causal body maintains the continuity of the I-ness i.e. the continuity of the Identity. If this is lost, we lose our sense of identity resulting in a serious mental problem. All the seeds of our inherited tendencies are buried in the causal body and when they are activated, thoughts arise in the mind according to the tendency activated. There are millions of these tendencies, and infinite number of thoughts could arise. The fear of the separation of life energy from the body called death- is the most powerful fear there. Long time memory seed are buried here,and thoughts from them arise, from time to time causing stress. In wakeful state all the three bodies are active, in dream state Astral and Causal bodies are active and in deep sleep only the Causal body is active. This discussion will be useful later.

Now we come to the amazing thing called "LIFE" on earth. Under favorable conditions,from inorganic substances, thanks to the unique property of Carbon to combine with itself,  to form long chain organic molecules-i.e. Bio molecules. This made it possible to form a single cell-bacterium, that could divide itself and form two cells (DNA molecule was formed).Thus life  came on Earth. From there a long journey in time resulted Human existence. The genes determine the essential nature of the individual (inherited qualities), whose impression are stored as seeds in the Causal body. As one grows up more impressions are added to the Causal body. All these impressions are projected as various thoughts. These cause different emotions. If one can prevent addition of negative emotion causing impressions impressions we can reduce stress in the future.

This point the way to our efforts to remove Stress generating impressions in the Causal body, so that no such thoughts could arise. How can we achieve that? The Causal body is at the unconscious level, how can we get there? Deep meditation calms the conscious mind and  a thought free interval can be found, and during this interval,deeper level thought can pop up. If a stress generating thought pops up,using the Intellect faculty, give autosuggestion that thought seed should be annihilated. Repeated suggestions will remove that seed.

There are other methods which we discuss later. There is a convenient way,the three-fold classification of Stress. Gross body (Physical body) related, Astral body related(mind related) and the third, Natural calamities like earthquake, etc. We have no control over the third type Stress. Only we plan ahead and choose the residence and job, in such a place where there are no such activities. This is necessary only if one is too much obsessed with that kind of thoughts. The other two we can deal with by employing many standard techniques.

Let's take a look at some special applications of the methods of Yoga, Tantra, and Mantra that can help deal with stress causing situations. Mantra, Yantra and Tantra deal with such problems, pertaining to the Gross and the Astral bodies (Physical and mental). Mantra: In many religions Mantras (this is a Sanskrit word) are used for Stresses pertaining to the Physical body-illness, as well as mental illness. Given the nature of the illness, the expert selects the appropriate Mantra remedy,and qualified persons are employed to Chant the Mantra,with an appeal to God, to cure the illness.There could be some rituals to follow.The expert will decide.The correct choice, and proper execution of the Chanting are very crucial for the cure. Yantras are designs of special types,with special power. Experts alone can choose the correct Yantra, then after a ritualistic procedure, it is worn by the patient in the neck or arm. Cure is assured. For all these to yield result faith in them by the patient is very necessary. Tartaric methods involve special effort from the patient, and must be done under the direct supervision of the expert. This is not suitable for most persons,so we need not discuss them further.

We stop this article here and in the next we'll see a few examples that illustrate these points further. 

Stress management methods

Stress is like a friend who has turned into a foe! Stress was Nature's way of protecting us to prepare for fight or flight when we faced a life-threatening attack. During a stressful moment, our body chemistry is quickly adjusted to face the danger by increasing blood pressure, releasing sugar from the liver. After the crisis is over, these chemicals are normally not left floating around in the body. If however the danger is not real and only imaginary, the thoughts generate the same reactions on the body. For example, when we dream of a lion chasing us, we wake up shouting, our pulse shoots up and we might break into a cold sweat! When we imagine, "what if I get a hear attack?" The fearful thought produces the same chemical reactions in the body and if such fears continue to cross the mind, the chemicals linger in the body causing damage like diabetes, hypertension, and even cancer.
Remedies are many but one should follow the ones best suited for the situation and the individual. In the next article I'll discuss a few of these remedies. 

Let's now look at a few ways to prevent the accumulation of stress, and a few methods to diffuse the unavoidable stress: e.g. death of a dear one, a divorce, financial collapse, loss of job, accidents etc.

My interest in psychology began when I was studying hypnotism. For example, have you ever wondered How prayers or chanting mantras can ever influence someone? Or how yoga can affect the mind? In short what is body mind connection? To answer this, we need to understand what  is MIND and how it relates to the brain.

 Brain is very complicated and even today it is not understood how thoughts are processed and memory is stored and retrieved. Mind is an abstract name which we intuitively understand. When someone says, "keep this in your Mind" that friend shakes his head and replies don't worry I will. This promise is made without thinking what the mind is or how to keep anything there! So for practical purposes, we can say, Mind is something where we feel the thoughts are recorded and stored. The most likely organ used for this is the brain. using the analogy of a cinema screen where pictures are seen, thoughts are like the picture recorded on the mind the thing corresponding to the screen. The thoughts follow so rapidly that we miss the interval between two thoughts. Thoughts are discreet. If the number of thoughts could be reduced,the interval could become longer for recognition. In the theoretical limit of no thoughts, this interval becomes infinite.This state is called in yoga, Samadhi the most coveted tranquil state. All mental activities are suspended. Life is still there, there is PURE Awareness of existence- of self awareness to distinguish from the awareness of the body or the surroundings.This is called self realization and extremely rare. However psychologists consider this as an altered state of mind- a mental abnormality needing treatment!

Let us leave this to the Yogi. For us the reduction of thoughts springing up is very useful tool.This is possible only by keeping the barest minimum of activities. Thus reduction of thoughts is achieved.This called in Sanskrit "Vasana kshayam". For a yogi this is absolutely essential, and methods are available for centuries.

Ramana Maharishi has explained this well by describing how an idle mind acts like an with the trunk of an elephant standing idly. The trunk keeps moving looking for objects to grab. If you extend a stick, it will grab it. Fixing the mind on one thought firmly for long time one prevent the mind from wandering through a gamut of thoughts. This is the basis of  Meditation, a universal method for reducing or avoiding stress. Practicing meditation successful requires a regular structure and the guidance of a qualified master. If this is too difficult, turn to easier methods like, participating in sport activities, watching TV, socializing, reading, traveling, acquiring new skills or hobbies.

Sometimes we need special help when extremely difficult situations like serious illness, financial difficulties, divorce, or the loss of a job. People turn to those who can peek into the future like an astrologer who can locate your stress creator, the reason for it, and when you are most likely to turn the corner- something like, "after two months planets move to favorable places
and your problems are resolved then." The result is, your stress in lessened, you see light at the end of the tunnel and you go home with good hope, and try methods to tide over the short bad patch.Thus astrology can remove the stress, at least reduce the stress for the time being, and on later finding the prediction true, stress is removed permanently.

Prayer is a powerful stress reliever. However, this method demands complete faith in a Supernatural, unseen power that can help us. We are aware of an orderly functioning of the universe-say if we plant a mango tree, it does not give us coconut. Microscopic feed-back controls are seen everywhere, these operate at macroscopic levels. How exactly these work we can never find. So we need to use our knowledge, without going to the fundamental mechanisms.

There is a story of an emperor who asked after reading LaPlace's famous astronomy book,"why have you not mentioned God who created this universe?'' LaPlace simply replied, "Your Majesty, I do not need that hypothesis for my work."  Leaving alone the LaPlaces, for most of us knowing that such an unknown force is at work is logical and appealing. Majority of human population believe in some religion or other,worship God (the unknown power which controls nature).Very ancient civilizations existed,where some form of worship existed. At first  it was the worship of natural elements such as Earth,Water, Fire, and Air. This practice continues even today in some parts of the world. It is also quite logical as the Sun and water are essential for the life on earth! There is a joke.Once an English man met an Egyptian,and made a statement" I heard that you worship Sun in your country! The Egyptian replied "Yes,we do, and I am sure you too would,if only you can see Him in your country!" Jokes apart, every where in the world sun-shine is welcome if it is not too hot.

Basic teaching in all religions, as expounded by all enlightened prophets, is to have faith in an unseen but existing power that controls the Universe. The name of this mighty power has many names like God, Nature, Cosmic Energy, Brahman, etc. The formula is simple here, when in need evoke that Power for help, and fully trust that your a solution to your problem will come. This is called prayer. With the development of very wide range of methods around the world, when communication technology opened up and people traveled to discover them, many were amazed and confused. If you closely examine the fundamental principles are similar. With an allowance for the independent evolution of different cultures over the centuries, we can understand why this happens.
To deal with unavoidable situations and stress  management, you need to choose a faith that you can follow with full confidence. Prayer with full faith gives relief from stress.

Self-hypnosis or auto suggestion is another method. Telling yourself  repeatedly, "This situation is temporary. I will find a way out to recover my normal self soon." This generates self confidence, which removes the low-feeling and gives strength to move forward and take steps to eliminate the stress causing problem e.g, get going with looking for a new job, if the cause is loss of job.

Consuming drugs or narcotics do not help remove the cause of stress. Instead, consultation with experts who can suggest methods to solve the stress causing problems, is a better option.

We end this here. We'll explore some details in my next post on methods adopted in Tantra,Yoga, and Mantra to overcome stress.

Introduction to stress management

Knowledge is infinite, human life span is finite and short. When we look around, each field is fascinating,and we are tempted to enter each field without remembering the shortness of the human life span. I am a victim of this temptation. The positive side of this however is that you end up with a lot of useful concepts. Occasions arise each day when we call upon this available knowledge to meet the demands. Examples are many, social ceremonies, vacations, changes in personal life, jobs, planning the future events in life are just a few.

                                                      

I have found many useful applications, that I share gratis for the benefit of people who might need them. My spiritual Guru, (late) Anna Subramaniam of Sri Ramakrishna Mission Home, at Chennai, India, advised me that good deeds when done with honest intentions, without any returned expectations  (Karma yoga as described in the Bhagavatgita) is the most satisfying type. By this, we can avoid disappointment or anger that might otherwise arise when rewards are not forthcoming. I am offering my thoughts here in this spirit, for the useful applications for people. I claim no responsibility if any of it is found harmful on applications.

Please examine the suggestions and make your own decisions knowing that you are responsible for the outcome. With this caveat, I'm taking you on an exploration of something that's affecting millions of people all over the world- STRESS.