Vol. 2 No. 2 October 2018

Asana As A Spiritual Development Ashram Denpasar (Perspectives Theology Hindu)

By: I Nyoman Sukarsa Institut Hindu Dharma Negeri Denpasar E-mail: [email protected]

Received: July 25, 2018 Accepted: September 30, 2018 Published: October 31, 2018

Abstract

Research conducted at Ashram Yoga Ananda Marga guided by a desire to know more about the benefits of yoga for an to develop himself physically, mentally and spiritually, who have developed this yoga since thousands of years ago, until now characterized separately by emphasizing according to the type that occupied, in its implementation for the benefit of the health and maximize efforts to accelerate achieved the ultimate goal in life. The objectives to be achieved is to understand more clearly focused and in-depth about techniques as meditation Spiritual development is developed and implemented by a group Ananda Marga Ashram spiritual in Denpasar. The study used several , namely the of structural functionalism, system theory of learning, theory of Hindu theology. In this study the methods used in qualitative approach of primary data obtained through field research and secondary data which can be obtained from some of the literature that has relevance to the problems examined. Furthermore, all the collected data are analyzed in the description. Based on the data analysis, it can be concluded about the practice of yoga asanas, in its approach, asana yoga training system applied is the patterns not only classical but more modernity according to the times. Ananda Marga implement training technique known as practical Rajadhiraja which is an extension of the ancient Rajayoga system, also known as Astanga yoga. It is practiced in a relatively slow speed and each pose is repeated in a systematic way. The goal in the repetition is to balance the secretion of hormones that are essential for of .

Keywords: Asana Yoga, Spiritual, Happiness

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I. Introduction driving force to develop meditation spititual, In , the purpose of life is different from the others. In the observation "yes Jagathita Moksartham caiti dharma," that there are peculiarities that are mounted meaning that the goal of human life is for in the practice of yoga asana that is, in yoga happiness in the world and the Hereafter asana specifics emphasis on refining gland happiness based on the teachings of dharma. in each massaged and stretched The opportunity is born once as real human during the asana is done repeatedly from beings is to achieve this goal is to free four to eight times in a position that is on themselves from the cycle of samsara. hold and in the period puraka particular with By being aware of it, in Hinduism the setting of breath, kumbaka and recaka, has a variety of alternative roads in an effort without ignoring other aspects, so that every to achieve the ultimate goal aspired includes massage glands on the disc, will produce the , Yoga, , and hormone balance in the body and mind so as Raja Yoga, of course choose one to be to produce a serenity yourself. After practiced. In Patanjali Yoga talked about the completing the asanas performed massage or concept of yoga called Yoga Astangga, massage, as it will enhance the efforts namely yama, , asana, , refreshment of asana [Ananda Marga prathyahara, dharana, dhyana and . Publications, 2005: 53]. Yoga is a system that allows an The Ashram spiritual study group has individual to develop himself physically, been established since 1979, although mentally and spiritually, one aspect of yoga growth is not spectacular, but still the road. is beneficial for developing spiritual health, Ashram in terms of appearance is not so with spiritual progress, the mind will develop good or flashy than others. Members in the capacity, and will expand the boundary line, Ashram is quite a lot and some of its until it merges in The highest entity. During members had independently become yoga progress can develop many capabilities that teachers elsewhere. In each of his followers are sattwam (Sarkar, 1992: 174). practice an average of only 15 people. The In its development until today there participants followed by a community of are many types of yoga, and have the same Hindu, Christian, Buddhist and Muslim. In parent is the Yoga written by Patanjali. other observations, in this Ashram applied various types of yoga and meditation Brahmacarii teachings are good and were developed by spiritual study group at the given a room on the other to become present time is very interesting to study, . because each of the development of these Deepening exercises are types of yoga has its own characteristics. indispensable in order to advance in the Spiritual study group also develops each one spiritual life, by implementing the teachings of the Patanjali Yoga concept with more Brahmacari not married and abstain from emphasis according to the type to be sexual intercourse entirely impossible. The practiced. composition of the people of the world are Needs to be observed and reflected already experiencing changes that are so deeper if deep spiritual. In this regard will large that a person may not abstain from focus investigated one of the international sexual intercourse since she started studied spiritual community. One of its branches in and became a disciple. Explained that Bali itself that Ananda Marga. The Ashram throughout the world there are many is taught more emphasis on the practice of institutions of various types of , Yoga Asana. Yoga Asana is very much but yet there is a recognized institution for usefulness in health, and that helps in educating students in the of preparing the body for spiritual meditation. Brahmacari. Be confirmed that's very Yoga Asana will have an impact on the difficult to progress in the spiritual life if one physical, flexibility, flexibelitas body, as a does not practice abstinence marital

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relationship. According to Sri Caitanya in a way that is properly structured, focused Mahaprabu said that at the time of this time to achieve optimal results. Physical is one of according to the rules of the scriptures only the criteria to support the practice of realize the Almighty processes that may be meditation is perfect. The goal is to get the running is how to praise the holy names of body that is flexible in order to balance the the Lord. Therefore, it is clear, requires energy that is free from disease. To meet the deepening, exercise earnest and high needs of physically not as fast as desirable discipline because it is not easy to run a but necessary time through the learning Brahmacari teachings as practiced by some process. The gained with a good communities in Ananda Marga Ashram. environment greatly affects the physical and mindset in an effort to raise that II. Methods brings peace of so as to obtain healthy In this research, conducted through physically, mentally, and spiritually. While the Hindu theology studies approach with on the other hand in the learning process of a qualitative methods. This research was relationship between the members of that is conducted in Ananda Marga Ashram based on a sense of togetherness, it certainly Denpasar. The type of data used in this study can foster a relationship based situational is qualitative data derived from primary data remedy achieve objectives of common sources and secondary data. Data obtained interest with a cozy and intimate atmosphere, from the results of observations and so it will give a fresh new look while informants who have been determined using maintaining a harmonious relationship. snowball sampling techniques in accordance Analysis for the achievement of with the issues discussed. Techniques used in objectives, in the process of learning yoga this research is observation, interviews, asana is very necessary to understand how documentation and literature. Data were the body's systems work of the foods so as to analyzed with descriptive qualitative avoid excessive eating. In this case there are technique using structural functionalism two functions of the digestive system is the theory, the theory of learning systems and first to absorb nutrients for a healthy body theory of symbols and meanings that the and a second to remove toxins. If the system results are presented using formal and is not functioning removal of toxins will informal methods. cause disease. Therefore expenditure regularly toxins in the body is vital to III. Results And Discussion maintaining good health. the food is very Analysis of the implementation of influential on the bodies and . There yoga in order disclosure of changes that are three kinds of food that need to be occur each individual in following the yoga understood, as follows; (1) Food Satvika, asanas in an atmosphere of diversity to foods that are good for the body and mind achieve harmony and tranquility. On the such as fruits, most vegetables, nuts and other hand, although not easy to measure dairy products, tubers. Satvik meal will make learning outcomes which may not be the the good behavior and speech is smooth and same every learner Trianto (in wahyuni, soft. Easy concentrations and have 2010: 30). The of the lives of confidence. (2) Food rajasika, the food was many available time to pamper and provide not too negative impacts, such as coffee, tea, physical pleasure to find peace, but instead chocolate, and soft drinks. The food is good they obtained is physical tension, mental and for the body but not necessarily good for the emotional. Therefore implement asana will mind. Consuming these foods will not have more power with various problems adversely affect the spiritual progress. (3) (Saraswati,2002:2). Food tamasika, the food is not good for the Here clearly needed is new thinking mind as body and, red meat, fish, chicken, ability with concentration, of course, be done egg, onion, mushrooms and garlic. Besides,

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these foods tends to stimulate such as experience mental structures and the laziness, ignorance, sleepiness, greed, no conviction of a previously (Smith, 2009: 88). patience, no hygiene and can cause a variety Benefits gained in its development. of diseases, also inhibits increase spiritual (a) .In in understanding the concepts (Nabaniilananda, 2012: 37). of spiritual it is best to first by practicing The food is very influential and meditation to develop intuition rather than important for humans to life. Annam vai just studying intellectual . If you want pranah which means the food is or life to understand yourself through meditation itself. Ahar suddhau satva suddhi which should be supported by healthy physical means the food is pure, the mind also media that the practice of yoga asanas. becomes sacred. Therefore, in order to mean spiritual meditation is essentially concentrate either for themselves or someone else, you on a spiritual associated with infinite should choose foods that Satvika man in her consciousness. So the point is an attempt to life. The is a wide range of food for unify our sense of ego into infinite humans, with the energy of good food so it consciousness (Anandamurti, 2004: 121). can clean up and be amrta for the body (b). Benefit from the moral, (Atharvaveda: 03.18.56). regarding formation attitudes and moral Man was created to have the privilege behavior is good or good manners in any and the glory of its own compared to other implementing activities in the community, creatures creations. Humans have wiweka so this is the basis of spiritual activity and is not as to distinguish the good and not good. A the purpose of spiritual life, because at any healthy diet will affect the good behavior. moment can be deleted but nevertheless it is therefore understanding requires time, a calm also very important morality means for mind, clear to understand the purpose. Put continuity and regularity of life. Morality is the learning objectives for humans to evolve only as good attribute to humans and is a into a character so well that his life could be preliminary step in the spiritual path through useful for others and for themselves. for that . It is very necessary mental a healthy is not overlooked, if you equilibrium (Anandamurti, 1998: 2). want the achievement of unification, the Morality is a human nature, man is necessary food of good quality. obliged to adjust the properties of nature and Asana dependent person's intellectual perform all obligations perfectly. Humans development to develop good attitudes to only seen as a good of the human family and improve health. Asana should be developed the creatures of God, if he is in his life and then look for the right techniques vary so carrying out a good morality, so morality can attractive, beautiful to follow tirelessly, not be separated from one's lifestyle. In man poses as encouragement and motivate there triguna effect, therefore it is necessary yourself to keep it fresh and make healthy should be considered as food ingredients physical with good and noble purpose. With selected from the group creature lowest level this pattern a person be a role model lead to of development of consciousness, changes in behavior. Learning asana vegetables, fruits clean and nutritious. (c). technique not only to get the physical health, Ethics, the meaning of which is intended as a proper and correct asanas actually teach collection of knowledge concerning the people to get physical flexibility, so as to assessment of human actions. The things that obtain the beauty and happiness as well as are ethical is a predicate used to distinguish the most noble objectives to be achieved. things certain human actions. So ethics is Through good teaching, let alone a perfect one that is used to discuss or investigate the right to be easier to reach for the beauty of value in moral conduct or review a matter of life towards happiness. Constructing reality morality or morality Dahlan (2003: 194). (d). itself, based on experience, so that individual Culture, the benefits obtained with different knowledge possessed became a function of cultural backgrounds and different beliefs

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also vary, asana in its application developed have inner urge for improvement and self- towards more modern so as to give the development. Art physical exercise and if the impression of a sense of brotherhood there is breath that comes from to train the no visible difference, a growing sense of mind and can overcome health problems. togetherness and the participants feel Yoga from the philosophical point of view it comfortable. (e). Aesthetics, beauty useful is clear that yoga a concept born out of India means for building the spirit or attitude that evolved in . The concept of yoga has is smooth, so the impact on the behavior of a of peace, whoever practice will people in a quieter handle various problems begin to feel peaceful life and live healthier and will avoid a manner manner driven by (BIF Yoga Magazine edition of 12 January excessive emotion, which in turn can lead to 2009: 15). History has recorded that loss of control measures, could be Hinduism is the oldest in the world. detrimental yourself, since it can only be As Swami Sivananda stated that Hinduism is solved by being more beautiful. In practice the mother of all , the sacred Hindu more attractive to further highlight the texts are the oldest on Sivananda (in aesthetic with an emphasis asana asana scolding, 2006: 16). Thus Hinduism is not variations which are not only classic, exclusive to put its teachings, its culture but preferring a suitable fit with life in modern open, sekurel and not marginalize other times. ethnic and confidence in achieving life goals. The point is to develop asana through In veda mentioned Vasudhaiva regular exercise can cure the disease because Kutumbakam. Train yoga means entering a they work directly on the hormonal system new life full of happy and always eager, and endocrine glands. Also can increase which has been tested by yogis in India since energy in the body and mind. With asana thousands of years ago. The practice of practical in a relatively slow speed and each meditation in modern life is very important pose is repeated several times means aims to to reduce tension or stress of living in daily balance the secretion of important hormones activities. By understanding the knowledge that can stimulate the function of internal of yoga asana, meditation as people will find organs and nervous system for peace of and be able to sort out which ones are good mind. Asana is the third part of astangga and which are not good in life. Practices are yoga. In view of yoga Hindu theology has conducted in yoga is to change all directions meaning closer to God. and also has a in order to get to the inside. Thus there is no unified sense. Patanjali very clearly remainder for the life to come and be able to introduce the word yoga with silk two obtain the liberation of attachment. ideals vrtti nirodhah, restrict the movements of the mind, control the mind is yoga. In IV. Conclusion addition yet to find another definition of Based on the analysis of the yoga (yoga magazine dition 12 January application of yoga asana learning system in 2009: 14). Therefore, universal yoga. Yoga Ananda Marga Ashram can be summarized is the purification of the of the process as follows: of purification of mind and physical body. Yoga asanas are developed in applying yoga asana in yoga astangga stages Ananda Marga is part of Patanjali Yoga continuously means more valuable in the Sutra. Ananda Marga is a community of development of physical, mental and spiritual study and the practice of yoga spiritual. Yoga is a practical way to achieve asanas. In theology the concept of teaching unification (Pendit, 2007: 111). the same with Hinduism. Organizationally The system of yoga asana practice in not affiliation, he included Universal the application is not looking at ethnicity, movement. Yoga training system adopted in religion and put together in a learning the approach not only classic but more system. Expected by continuous exercise modernized according to the times. With a

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systematic means to build a good human it Kaelan 2005, Qualitative Research Methods must build an ethical attitude, aesthetics and Division of Philosophy. Yogyakarta: able to put culture in the diversity of life so Paradigm that it can promote harmony, unity, and Koentjaraningrat, 2009. Revised Edition fraternity to produce peace and happiness. Introduction to Anthropology. Ananda Marga has a concept of religious Jakarta: PT.Rineka Notices. experience the same with the same purpose Maleong 2010, Qualitative Research as well, which emphasizes and Methodology. Bandung: Young in Hinduism also emphasizes love. The Rosdakarya Pt. Hindu philosophy tat tvam asi may cause Muktananda, Swami, a Hindu affection of mutual respect with each other 2007. To Modern Life. Jakarta: Pt so as to create harmony in life. This means Penebar Organization. that with mutual respect in diversity then it is Prabhat R S, Shrii, 1992. Yoga Psychology. really a form of devotion and sense of bhakti Jakarta: Ananda Marga forms presented to the Lord. Ritzer, George and Godman, Douglas J., 2011, Modern Sociological Theory. References Jakarta: Kencana Predana Media Anandamurti, Shrii Shrii, 2004. Basic Group. Philosophy of Ananda Marga. Saraswati, Swami Satya Prakas. 1996, Jakarta: IndonesiaAnandaMarga. Patanjali Raja Yoga, Surabaya: Anandamitra, Avadhutika, 2012. Paramita. Beyond Awareness Meditation Sudarta, 2004. Slokantara. Surabaya: Supra. Jakarta: Indonesia Ananda Paramita.Sugiyono, 2010, Marga. Educational Research Methods. Bungin, Burhan, 2010. Qualitative Research Bandung: Alfabeta Cv Data Analysis. Jakarta; King Smith, mark k, 2009, Theory of Learning GrafindoPersadaPt. and Teaching, Yogyakarta: Mirza Clifford, Anne, 2002. Feminist Theology. Media Library Yogyakarta: Ledalero Titib, I Made, 2001. Theology and symbols Donder, I Ketut, 2006. Brahmavidya in Hinduism. Surabaya: Paramita. theology of love the universe. Weber, Max. 2002. . Surabaya Paramita. Yogyakarta: IRCiSoD Ghindawani, Hira, 2006. Universal Hindu religion. Denpasar: Media Hindu.

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