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By exploring historical and time-tested methods of physical exercises or vyayama and the present perspectives
on health and wellness through wellness centers and gyms, originating in ancient Indian civilization, the practice
of Vyayama is traced from Vedic texts and the works of eminent personalities like Acharya Charaka, Acharya
Sushruta, and Maharshi Vagabhatta, who emphasized the integral connection between physical, mental, and
spiritual well-being. They also emphasized that excessive Vyayama/exercises may cause negative impact on the
body such as exhaustion, consumption of more energy, thirst, bleeding from different parts of the body, Dyspnea
(difficult or laboured breathing), cough, fever, vomiting etc. While defining the ancient pretext of Vyayama and
present culture of gyms and fitness centres as there are mushroom growth of fitness centers, gyms, fitness clubs
etc. one should know the different aspects of the above terminology and this study examines traditional wellness
and fitness clubs that which promote a balanced lifestyle including diet, rest, and mental conditioning, while
modern gyms focused primarily on physical fitness. Analysis reveals that Vyayama, grounded on Ayurvedic
principles, not only aids in disease prevention and longevity but also fosters resilience and harmony between
body, mind, and soul through moderate, seasonally of life and adapted exercises and the relevance of classical
guidelines in addressing health challenges, advocating for a preventive and individualized approach to wellness.
Ayurveda places a great emphasis on prevention and promotes the maintenance of health to balance mind, body
and soul and one to understand how to create his life be happy.
Vyayama, Ayurveda, Wellness, Physical Exercise, Dosha Balance, Ancient Indian Wisdom, Disease
prevention, Traditional medicine.
The aim of this article is to explore the concept of Wellness in Ancient India and how it differentiates from
present Gym and Wellness centres?
The objective of this article is to explore the concept of Wellness Club/Vyayama from Ancient
traditions to present wellness and fitness clubs promoting holistic wellness and prevention of ailments.
Indian Civilization is the oldest civilization and in those days they used to follow many principles in everyone’s
walks of life of which Vyayama culture (exercises) that keeps the body, soul and mind as fresh as vegetable.
These are the three component of the body that keeps the human being fit and alert in discharging their daily
routines without any problems and keeps them away from diseases and ailments. There are historical evidences
regarding the same of which when we go to the early Harappa Civilization and then the post Harappa Civilization,
Vedic Period, Epic age, then the Jain and Buddhist periods are all focused on physical education as the present
nomenclature of Vyayama and in addition keeping them with good habits and controlled and conditioned eating
habits etc. While going through the Vedic texts, one can find the identification of Vyayama as the most important
aspects of human lifestyle. In this study, I want to explore the importance of Vyayama/Physical exercise that is
to be travelled along with human life. From the above scriptures and archeological findings, epigraphy’s,
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genetics, the historians and the archeologists are able to identify, the importance of Vyayama as an essential
component for preventive, curative and rehabilitation for regenuvation and longevity. This historical evidence
one is able to unfold some fundamental concepts of Vyayama from the age old authentic Ayurvedic literature.
From this inscriptions, one can identify the constructive thoughts and applications with respect to
Vyayama/Physical exercises can be seen from Charaka Samhita, a oldest Ayurvedic Literature of the World and
Sushruta Samhita and then comes Vagabhatta, all these three eminent scholars of Ancient medicine like
Ayurveda, which they developed, practiced and put into operation for a healthy society, they are able to identify
Vyayama or Physical exercises are to be embedded in one’s own living as a part of their lifestyle. Medicines may
cure the ailments/diseases of the body but the physical exercises that keeps one’s own mind, body and soul in a
conditioned manner. So that, the ailments/diseases are afraid of coming nearer to him/her. Charaka Samhita
written by Acharya Charaka an authority on Ayurveda emphasized on maintenance of positive health that
includes proper diet, sleep, rest, active habits and finally regular physical exercises namely Vyayama. They also
emphasized that excessive Vyayama/exercises may cause negative impact to the body such as exhaustion,
consumption, thirst, bleeding from different parts of the body, Dyspnea (difficult or labored breathing), cough,
fever, vomiting etc. Acharya Charaka in his Charaka Samhita described about the Vyayama (physical exercises)
elaborately mentioned different exercises for different seasons. He also emphasized that Vyayama is to be give
up in hot summer and during heavy rain season whereas Autumn is suitable for swimming and one should
habitually resort to Vyayama (physical exercises) in spring season. Charaka Samhita, the ancient available
Literature, that was drafted and put into practice by Acharya Charaka is one of the most famous living evidence
on exercise therapy in which twenty types of Vyayamas (Exercises) of Kaphaja diseases and many other diseases
to cure or minimize. Then came the works of an eminent scholar by name Acharya Sushruta, who also wrote
Sushruta Samhita in which he also made many suggestions that are to be adopted by all the humans as Vyayama
Culture. Acharya Sushruta defines Vyayama (exercise) as a sense of weariness from bodily labour and advised
that it should be practiced every day. Acharya Sushruta in Sushruta Samhita referred movements of Vyayama
and movement associated with walking, running, jumping, swimming, driving or riding and participating in
sports such as Archery, Wrestling, Javelin Throw. Unlike other eminent scholars, Acharya Sushruta in their noble
work namely Sushruta Samhita advocated moderate exercises that improves the growth of limbs, endurance,
muscle stoutness, strength, digestion power and resistance against fatigue, mental alertness and intelligence.
Acharya Sushruta also believed that Vyayama (exercise) should be used for curative and remedial purposes. It
also surprising to note, in those ancient days, Acharya Sushruta identified the present devils of obesity and
diabetes and the Acharya mentioned that it can be prevented through Vyayama. Sushruta Samhita by Acharya
Sushruta believed that Vyayama can help in prevention from diseases caused by the elevation in the Kapha humor
that influenced by inactivity and excessive consumption of food and fluids in daily life.
While defining the fitness clubs and gyms and also the Vyayama in ancient days, and there is a mushroom growth
of fitness group classes, gyms, fitness clubs etc. one should know the different aspects of the above terminology.
Normally the fitness clubs are defined as a wide range of group fitness classes, cardio machines and specialized
training areas, finding the perfect place to reach your physical fitness goals. It all depends upon the way in which
you workout those exercises under the guidance of proper fitness tutor, now we can find the difference between
Gym and Fitness club.
The object of Fitness Club and Gym is nothing but to improve physical fitness but with different needs, with
different equipment by providing various services and amenities’. On the other hand Gyms are generally known
for their strength training areas and cardio equipments such as Threadmills, Stationary Bikes. In contrasts, Fitness
club tend to go beyond the basics offering specialized group fitness classes, personalized training, swimming
pools and spa facilities. On the other hand,
A Gym is typically “a space dedicated to physical fitness, outfitted with a range of gym equipment designed to
help strengthen bodies, improve endurance and build muscle. Majority of the gyms focus on four fitness
essentials offering an array of free weights and cardio equipments such as cycling machines, Thread mills,
and machines that target specific muscle groups.”
The facilities in Gym are so designed to support divorce fitness goals, according to each participant mainly
focusing on weightloss, strength training and overall health. Choosing a right gym or fitness club depends upon
different factors such as location, costs of training and the quality of fitness facilities available.
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One can find lot of literature on the subject by eminent scholars who toiled day in and day out to bring out the
cream of the subject that is being adopted followed and transferred to the next generations by the eminent
scholars in ancient India on the subject of Vyayama and notables among them are Acharya Charaka, Acharya
Sushruta and Acharya Vagabhatta. Let us find out the some of the important aspects on Vyayama that are still
holds good in the present situation and the principle being same whether it is a gym of fitness club in the modern
era. I quote some of the important findings.
In Sushruta Samhita, by Acharya Sushruta in Chapter 7 described the preventive measures for endogenous and
exogenous diseases. The Acharya made emphasis on natural urges aimed to cleansing body channels. The
Acharya also emphasized not only the exercises a proper diet that suits and individuals condition and as per the
constitution of the body of that particular person. That means for maintaining psychological and social wellbeing
and for prevention of psycho spiritual disorders are described in detail in the Samhita. The Acharya also
emphasized the methods of prevention of diseases by improving the strength by thoroughly examining one’s
own body constitution, maintaining psycho spiritual balance and following the ideal dietary and lifestyle that
suits one’s unique constitution are provided. In this regard, I quote from the article titled “Naveganadharaniya
Adhyaya, Charaka Samhita Sutra Sthana” written by eminent scholar Yogesh S Deole, Charutar
Vidyamandal Institutes, published in Journal Research Scholar, I quote with due respects to the author, Sanskrit
text, transliteration and English translation
||||
||||
Now we shall expound the chapter “Naveganadharaniya” (Non-suppressible and suppressible natural urges and
other factors for health). Thus said Lord Atreya.[1-2]
Adharaniya vega (Non-suppressible urges), consequences of suppression and their management
| ||||
| ||||
The intelligent person should not suppress the natural urges initiated by sensations of urine, defecation, sexual
desires (release of semen), flatus, vomiting, sneezing, belching (eructation), yawning, hunger, thirst, tears, sleep
and exertion induced dyspnea.[3-4]
| ||||
Separate treatment for diseases arising due to suppression of these natural urges is told henceforth. [5]
| ||||
| ||||
Suppression of the urge to pass urine causes pain in the bladder and phallus, dysuria, headache, bending of the
body and distension of the lower abdomen. [6]
In this case, the treatment includes fomentation, sitz bath, massage, avapeedaka ghee (consumption of ghee in
large doses before and after meals) and all the three types of basti (therapeutic enema with oil, decoction and
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medicine through urinary orifice) is prescribed. [7] 2. Diseases due to suppression of urge to defecate and its
treatment
| s ||||
| ||||
Suppression of the urge to defecate causes colic pain, headache, retention of fecal matter and flatus, cramps in
the calf muscles and distension of abdomen.[8]
In such cases, fomentation, massage, sitz bath, per rectal suppositories, and basti (therapeutic enema) are
prescribed and one should take food and drinks that facilitate bowel evacuation to remove obstruction. [9]
| ||||
| ||||
When the urge to ejaculate is suppressed, the symptoms like pain in the penis, testicles, body ache, pain in cardiac
region, and retention of urine are observed. [10]
In that case massage, sitz bath, Madara (alcoholic drinks), chicken, shali rice (Oryza sativa Linn.), milk, enema
with decoction, and proper sexual intercourse (in order to ejaculate semen) are prescribed. [11]
| ||||
| ||||
Retention of feces, urine and flatus, distension of abdomen, pain, fatigue and other abdominal diseases are caused
due to suppression of urge to pass flatus. [12]
In such case, external and internal administration of unctuous substance, fomentation, per rectal suppositories,
intake of foods and drinks having carminative action and therapeutic enema are prescribed.
[13]
| ||||
| ||||
Pruritus, urticaria, aversion (to food), vyanga (discoloration of face), shotha (edema), pandu (pallor/anaemia),
jwara (fever), kushtha (skin diseases), nausea
and visarpa (erysipelas) are caused by the suppression of the urges of vomiting. [14]
In such cases, Prachchardana(therapeutic induction of vomiting), dhumapana (therapeutic inhalation of smoke),
langhana (therapeutic fasting), rakta mokshana (bloodletting), foods that are dry in properties, drinks, vyayama
(physical exercise) and virechana (therapeutic purgation) are prescribed. [15]
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| ||||
| ||||
Neck stiffness, headache, facial paralysis, pain in half side of face and head, weakness of sense organs and
locomotor organs are caused by the suppression of the urge to sneeze. [16]
In such cases, the treatment includes abhyanga (therapeutic massage) and swedana (fomentation) on the supra-
clavicular region, dhooma (use of medicated smoke) along with administering navana (nasal drops), foods
prescribed for alleviation of vata and consumption of ghee after meals. [17]
| ||||
Hiccups, dyspnea, aversion (to food), tremors, and feeling of congestion in the cardiac and chest region are
caused due to suppression of belching or eructation. It should be treated on similar lines of hikka (hiccups). [18]
| ||||
Crookedness of body, convulsions, contractions (of muscles), numbness, tremors and trembling are caused by
the suppression of yawning. Treatment for this includes all vata pacifying measures. [19]
| ||||
Emaciation, weakness, change in body complexion, generalized body ache, aversion (to food) and dizziness are
caused by suppressing hunger. In such cases, unctuous, hot and light (easily digestible) food is advised. [20]
| ||||
Dryness of throat and mouth, deafness, feeling of exhaustion, weakness and cardiac pain are caused by the
suppression of thirst (or the urge to drink). In that case, cold refreshing and satiating drinks are advised.
[21]
| ||||
Rhinitis, eye diseases, cardiac diseases, aversion (to food) and dizziness are caused by suppressing urge to cry
(due to grief). The treatment includes sleep (rest), intake of wine and pleasing stories or positive conversations.
[22]
| ||||
Yawning, body ache, drowsiness, diseases of head and heaviness in the eyes are caused by suppression of the
urge to sleep. Resorting to sound sleep and samvahana (gentle massage) is advised in such cases. [23]
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| ||||
Gulma (lump in abdomen), cardiac diseases and confused state of mind are caused by suppression of dyspnea
(due to exertion). In that case, proper rest and regimen for the alleviation of vata are advised. [24]
| ||||
Diseases caused by the suppression of various natural urges have been described in this chapter. The person
desirous of preventing these diseases should not suppress any of these natural urges. [25] Dharaniya vega-
Restraint of psychological urges (suppressible urges)
| ||||
A person willing for his own well-being, in this life and after (death), should suppress the urges to engage in
adventures, and extreme activities of psyche, speech and body. [26] Manasika vega (Psychological urges)
| ||||
An intelligent person should control greed, grief, fear, anger, egoism, shamelessness (impudence), jealousy,
excessive affliction (in anything), and desire to acquire someone else’s wealth. [27] Vachika vega (Verbal urges)
| ||||
Harsh talks, excessive talking, that which intends to harm others or backbiting, lying and untimely speech
(improper words at improper time) are to be restrained during speaking. [28] Kayika vega (Physical urges)
| ||||
Physical actions intended to trouble others, excessive indulgence in sex, stealing, violence (persecution), etc.
should be restrained. [29]
| ||||
The virtuous one, who is free from all evil deeds of mind, speech and body, is indeed happy and enjoys the fruits
of dharma (virtue), artha(wealth), and kama (desires).[30]
| ||||
Such suitable physical movement intended towards bringing stability (in body) and increase in strength is known
as vyayama (physical exercise). This has to be practiced in moderation (with apt control and for proper duration).
[31]
| ||||
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| ||||
Lightness, strength to work, stability, endurance towards distress and mitigation of dosha (especially kapha), and
stimulation of agni (digestive power) is engendered by physical exercise. [32]
Exhaustion, fatigue, wasting (of body tissues), thirst, bleeding from different parts of the body (raktapitta),
pratamaka (dyspnea with fainting), cough, fever and vomiting are caused by excessive physical exercise. [33]
( | ||||)
Perspiration, increase in respiratory rate, feeling of lightness of body, and congestion in cardiac (heart) region
and such other organs of the body are signs of reaching threshold of exercise and one should stop the exercise.(1)
(Note: This verse seems to be added later and was not a part of original text.) Activities to be done in appropriate
measures only
| ||||
Exercise, laughing, speaking, walking, sexual activities and staying awake at night should not be practiced in
excess by an intelligent person even if they are accustomed (or habituated) to doing such activities. [34]
Consequences of improper vyayama (exercise) and contra-indications
| ||||
( | ||||
| ||||)
One who indulges in these and such other activities in excess, suddenly perishes like a lion trying to drag an
(huge) elephant. [35]
(The person emaciated due to excess sexual intercourse, weight bearing, walking, those afflicted by anger, grief,
fear, exertion; those who are children, elderly, prone to vata, who need to talk loudly and excessively, and those
who are hungry and thirsty shall avoid physical exercise). (Note: This verse seems to be added later and was not
a part of original text.)
| ||||
An intelligent person should gradually wean himself away from unwholesome/unhealthy practices (to which he
is addicted) and adopt wholesome ones in the proper sequence. The schedule for the same is given below. [36]
| ||||
On the first day one should give up a quarter of the unwholesome practice (still maintaining three-fourth of it)
and correspondingly adopt a quarter of wholesome. On the second day, half of the unwholesome practice should
be given up and half of the wholesome one should be adopted; this is to be continued for the third day also. On
the fourth day, three-fourth of the unwholesome practice should be given up and three-fourth of the wholesome
one should be adopted. This process should be continued on the fifth and sixth day also. The process of giving
up of the unwholesome practice and adoption of the wholesome practice is completed fully on the seventh day.
[37]
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| ||||
By slowly and gradually giving up unwholesome practices and by increasing the wholesome practices in proper
sequence, the unwholesome practices do not reoccur and the wholesome practices are fully adopted. [38]
| ||||
| ||||
Some individuals have the equal proportions of pitta-kapha-vata prakriti (equilibrium state of all dosha) at the
time of conception, while some are dominated by vata, some by pitta and some by kapha. [39]
Those of the first category (balanced dosha) do not suffer from diseases. Others (dominated by single dosha),
are always likely to suffer. These are called as doshanushayi (depending upon dominancy of dosha) deha prakriti
(body constitution). [40] Preservation of health and equilibrium
| ||||
Diet and exercise regimen with opposite/neutralizing dosha properties are prescribed for maintaining health.
Habitual intake of balanced diet with all rasa in proportionate quantity is recommended for equilibrium state of
dosha. [41]
| ||||
| ||||
Two external orifices in the lower part of the body (viz. the anus and urethra), seven orifices in head region (viz.,
two eyes, two ears, two nostrils and mouth) and numerous openings of sweat glands are channels meant for
excretion (of waste products). These are affected by vitiated dosha and increased waste products. [42]
If there is heaviness in these excretory orifices, it is indicative of increase in waste products due to excess
accumulation (inside body). If there is lightness in the excretory orifices, it indicates decrease in quantity of
waste products due to excess excretion (from body). [43]
|
||||
By ascertaining signs and symptoms of dosha indicated above, one shall treat curable diseases by (therapies
having) qualities opposite to disease and causative factors after proper consideration of the dose and time of
administration. [44]
| ||||
Lifestyle contrary to that mentioned in Swasthavritta leads to above-mentioned and similar diseases.
Therefore, the course of life conducive to the maintenance of good health should be followed. [45]
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In the months of Chaitra (the month coming before Madhava/Vaishakha i.e. approximately during Mid March-
Mid April), Shravana (the month coming before Nabhasya/Bhadrapada, i.e. approximately during Mid July- Mid
August) and Margashirsha (the month coming before Sahasya/Pausha, approximately during Mid October- Mid
November), the accumulated dosha should be eliminated (by means of purification therapies). [46]
After the oleation and fomentation therapies, emetics (for elimination of dosha from upper part of body) and
purgatives (for elimination of dosha from lower part of body) should be administered. Subsequently, the
intelligent person should be treated with medicated enema and nasal instillation/errhines therapies regularly. [47]
The above mentioned treatments shall be followed in proper sequence and appropriately. And thereafter,
medicines processed with rejuvenation and aphrodisiac preparations should be prescribed. [48]
(By administering the above treatments, as applicable) In a state of equilibrium of dhatu, diseases are prevented,
tissue elements develop properly and ageing process slows down. [49]
The procedures for preventing endogenous diseases have been described above. Those for preventing exogenous
ones have been described in the next verse. [50]
| ||||
Exogenous diseases are produced by evil spirits, toxins, air, fire, assault on human beings. Intellect is affected in
such diseases. [51]
| ||||
Jealousy, grief, fear, anger, egoism and hatred, etc. and all other mentioned mental disorders result from defects
in one’s intellect. [52]
| ||||
| ||||
Avoidance of such emotions, control over sense and motor organs, memorizing (regimens), specific knowledge
(orientation) of place, time and one’s own self, and following regimen of good conduct are some of the ways to
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prevent exogenous diseases. Therefore, an intelligent person desirous of his own well-being shall follow these
suitable measures well in advance. [53-54]
| ||||
Knowledge of the prescription of authoritative sages and its proper application with correct understanding (taking
proper decisions at the right time and need) are necessary (recommended) for prevention of impending diseases
and treatment of existing diseases. [55]
| ||||
| ||||
Such wretched human beings, who are of sinful conduct, speech and mind, back biters, those who are
quarrelsome by nature, those who indulge in sarcastic remarks about others, the greedy, those who envy the
prosperity of others, the cruel, those who indulge in defaming others, the fickle-minded, those who serve the
enemy, those devoid of compassion and those who do not follow the virtuous course of life should be avoided.
[56-57]
| ||||
| ||||
Those who have attained maturity by virtue of intellectual wisdom, knowledge, age, character, courage, memory
and contemplation, who serve senior (by age and rank) persons, who are mature and learned ones, who are well
acquainted with human nature, those who are devoid of all anxieties, who are well behaved with everybody, who
are in serenity, who follow righteous course of action, who advocate good conduct and whose very name and
sight are auspicious should be accompanied. [58-59] Important measures to be followed for complete wellness
| ||||
Intelligent person desirous of well-being in the present world (birth) and the world after death should strive his
level best to follow the correct regimen of diet, code of conduct and deeds (prescribed in above verses). [60]
| ||||
| ||||
Curd should not be consumed at night. Otherwise, if curd is to be taken, it should be mixed with ghee, sugar,
green gram soup, honey or amalaka (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.). It should not be heated also. [61]
Jwara (fever), Raktapitta (bleeding from different parts of the body), visarpa (erysipelas), kushtha (obstinate skin
diseases), pandu (anemia like disorders), bhrama (giddiness, vertigo) and severe kamala (jaundice and other
hepato-biliary disorders) occur if the prescribed rules for consumption of curd are not followed by one who is
fond of curd. [62]
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In another article titled, “Procedure to a Happy Life: According to Ashtangahridayam”, written by Sangeeta
Karmakar, Assistant Professor, Durgapur Women’s College, published in IJCRT Journal, has elaborately
described that,
“The Harappan life in Ashtangahridayam being written by Acharya Vagabhat, as one has to accept Ayurveda, is
considered one of the World’s oldest healing signs originating in India i.e. 5000 years ago.”
The meaning of Ashtangahridayam is “the wisdom of life or the knowledge of longevity” (it is a combination of
Ayus) meaning life or longevity and Veda meaning deep knowledge or widom). That is the very reason the
Acharyas who developed and practiced Ayurveda, viewed that health as much more than absence of disease.
Ayurveda according to them made more emphasis on maintenance of health through close attention of balance
in one’s life, right thinking, diet, lifestyle and use of herbs. Many of these components are directly linked to
Vyayama or physical exercise. In a sense by changing the lifestyle and the habits in accordance with one’s own
constitution of the body, one can lead a happy life free from diseases and ailments by creating an healthy nation.
Acharya Vagabhatta is one of the three classic writers of Ayurveda who was influenced by the earlier treatise of
Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita and his own contributions that made these Samhitas, a treasure
knowledge of not only Ayurveda but also on Vyayama (exercises) to keep the body, soul and mind intact. Is
astonishing to note those eminent scholars in Ancient India have emphasize the need for Vyayama or Physical
exercises and their importance in one’s own life to keep them fit, so that a strong society inturn a strong nation
can be built. Vagabhatta who is the son of Simhagupta, who got his name from his grandfather who is also called
as Vagabhatta who are great scholars of Ayurveda mainly focusing on Kayachikitsa, Ashtanga Hridaya that
elaborates about various surgical treatments such as,
Kaya Chikitsa – Treatment of the body.
Baala Chikitsa – Section on pediatrics
Griha Chikitsa – Section on psychiatry
Urdhvanga Chikitsa or Shalakya Tantra – Treatment for eye, ear, nose and parts above neck
Salya Tantra – Section on surgery
Damsthra Chikitsa – Section on Toxicology
Jara Chikitsa or Rasayana Chikitsa – Rejuvenation Therapy
Vrishya chikitsa or Vajeekarana Chikitsa – Aphrodisiac Therapy
The second, third and fourth chapters of Ashtangahridayam narrates about Happy Life. As it is not possible to
discuss about the entire aspect I will try to pinpoint the important aspects propounded by Vagabhatta with respect
to Vyayama or exercises. In one chapter, Ritucharya it is nothing but a routine to be followed in each season that
are Sisira, Vasantha and Greesma, the Acharya describes physical exercises by dividing the entire year into by
Uttarayana and Dakshinayana in one year and the physical exercises or Vyayama that are to be followed, the
Acharya also emphasized the importance of Brahmamuhurta,
The Acharya also emphasized the need for balancing swasta and dosha in a proper equilibrium so that the body,
mind and soul can be kept in pleasant state that means by following principles embedded in Acharya Vagabhattas
Samhita one can live for one hundred twenty years it is not that long life but long and healthy life and they
believed that prevention is better than cure one has to follow the principles or dinacharya (daily routine) per
swastha body. Vagabhatta also emphasized cleanliness, social appearance and walking and such other simple
ways of exercises one can keep the mind, body and soul a fresh.
In addition to these things, Vagabhatta also emphasized the needs of conditioning the body, mind and soul in
relation to each season to promote sense of happiness and elevation. He also mentioned that after taking bath
everyday as prescribed by the Acharya, he advised to adorn the body with cosmetics (not the present cosmetics)
such as camphor, musk agahar and saffron. These cosmetic ingredients prescribed by Acharya keep the body
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warm and pleasant odour which makes/enhances the happiness. The Acharya also annunciated in addition to
physical exercises stressed the need of maintaining time schedules for exercises and also eating habits. Acharya
mentioned that the best time for exercises for physical fitness is 6 AM to 10 AM and this time schedule naturally
provides the body with more strength and stamina. Acharya also emphasized that as far as possible avoid during
exercises in the evening because according to Acharya by doing exercises in the evening rigorously can aggravate
the Vata Dosha, disrupt sleep and cause anxiety. As not like in the present gym and body exercises, Acharya
Vagabhatta integrated exercises with complete wellness and mentioned that,
“Apply oil to the body – Abhyanga to protect the joints and calm the nervous system. This type is important to
eliminate Vata Dosha from the body”
At the time of doing exercise in the morning one should focus on Nasal breathing, according to Acharya
Vagabhatta breathing through the nose helps keep the body relaxed during exertion and prevents the Vata Dosha
from increasing excessively. After the completion of exercise one should apply self massage to ground the body
and help the nervous system settles; in addition a warm water breathing can also remove fatigue and soothe the
body. Acharya emphasized a daily schedule for everyone (dina charya) such as, “getting enough sleep, eating
mindfully and incorporating meditative practices to maintain a calm and balanced state of being”.
All these exercises and fitness reflects in Ayurveda that is why in Ancient India people used to live hundred years
by adopting such methods. That is why ancient healthcare procedure that is embedded in the Ayurveda mentions
all these things in addition to lifestyle that suits in the present fast paced world, a reading of the principles laid
down in healthy living for the renowned Acharyas like Susruta, Charaka and Vagabhatta, they propounded “the
principles of balanced life and wholistic wellness”. Maharshi Vagabhatta emphasized the need for healthy
balanced life by applying,
In addition to exercises, eating according to with the seasons and one’s dosha (constitution of the body) to keep
the things in balance and keep the mind, body connection, realizing the close relationship between both physical
and mental wellness. A look at the Maharshi Vagabhatta’s concept of health,
“Emphasizes prevention over treatment, instead of just treating the symptoms of diseases, the maharshi taught
it was important to address their underlying causes by incorporating regular exercises, maintaining diet,
following regular uninterrupted sleep to keep the body, mind and soul in a balanced manner.”
In Ancient India, the exercises to the body or in the form of Yoga and Naturopathy. Yoga is nothing but, “an
exercise form”.
The Word Yoga is essentially means,
“that which brings you to reality”. Literally it means “union”. Union means it brings you to the ultimate reality,
where individual manifestations of life are surface bubbles in the process of creation. Right now, a coconut tree
and a mango tree have popped up from the same earth. From the same earth, the human body and so many
creatures have popped up. It is all the same earth. Yoga means to move towards an experimental reality where
one knows the ultimate nature of the existence, the way it is made.”
In this context, the Yoga exercises that are annunciated by the Acharyas and Maharshis are divided into, Bhakti
Yoga, Gnana Yoga , Karma Yoga and finally Kriya Yoga. All these Yoga postures are nothing but a form of
exercises but not physical exercises as is being practiced in the modern life but are related not only to the body
but the mind and soul also because body, mind and soul together makes a person to lead a healthy life. As is a
practice in the Ancient India, that are being taught by the Acharyas and Maharshis to their disciples they have
composed 50 best Yoga poses and Asanas for the beginners that they have to do them regularly in the morning
and evening and in addition control their eating habits for maintain good health. In addition to these exercises
namely Yoga poses and Asanas for beginners a warm up exercise to bring the body into condition are also made
it compulsory.
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Following are the list of stretching Asanas in Yoga and heir benefits are given below:
1. Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation)
26. Garudasana (Eagle Pose)
2. Full Body Yoga Tadasana – The Mountain Pose
27. Natarajasana (Lord of the dance Pose)
3. Standing Forward Fold Pose (Uttanasana Yoga)
28. Naukasana Posture (Boat Pose)
4. The Triangle Pose (Trikonasana Yoga)
29. Marijariasana (Cat Pose)
5. Bow Pose (Dhanurasana Yoga)
30. Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana (Extended Hand to Toe
Pose)
6. Slow Stretching Yoga Asana for Neck
31. Hasta Uttanasana (Raised Arms Pose)
7. Kapalbhati Pranayama Yoga Pose
32. Hastapadasana (Forward Bend Pose)
8. Bound Angle Pose – Baddha Konasana
Yoga
33. Prasarita Padottanasana (Wide-Legged
Forward Bend)
9. Relaxing Yoga Asana (Eagle Twist Yoga)
34. Vrikshasana Yoga (Tree Pose)
10. Headstand Pose (Sirsasana Yoga Pose)
35. Ardha Chakrasana (Half Wheel Pose)
11. Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand)
36. Viparita Virabhadrasana (Reverse Warrior Pose)
12. Paschimottanasana (Forward Bend Pose)
37. Chakrasana Yoga (Full Wheel Pose)
13. Plough Pose (Halasana Yoga Pose)
38. Practice Ardha Chandrasana (Half Moon Pose)
14. Ardha Halasana (Half Plough Pose)
39. Adho Mukha Svanasana
15. Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)
40. Vyaghrasana (Tiger Pose)
16. Pavanamuktasana (Wind Removing Pose)
41. Yoga Bakasana (Crow Pose)
17. Uttana Padasana (The raised Leg Pose)
42. Makarasana (The Crocodile Pose)
18. Setu Bandhas Ana Yoga Pose (Bridge Pose)
43. Salabhasana (Locust Pose)
19. Vajrasana (Diamond Pose)
44. Bhekasana (Frog Posture)
20. Half Twist Pose (Matsyendrasan)
45. Gomukhasana Yoga (The Cow Head Pose)
21. Ananda Balasana (Happy Baby Pose)
46. Virasana Yoga Pose (Hero Pose)
22. Balasana (Child’s Pose)
47. Supta Virasana Yoga (Reclined Hero Pose)
23. Shavasana (Corpse Pose)
48. Kumbhakasana (Plank Pose)
24. Virabhadrasana (Warrior Pose)
49. Vasisthasana (Side Plank Pose)
25. Ustrasana (Camel Pose)
50. Utthan Pristhasana (Lizard Pose)
There is a notion that physical education in the so-called gyms and fitness clubs are the creation of vest but not;
on the other hand in Ancient India, right from the Vedic Period, Maharshis and Acharyas who have devoted the
life for the upliftment of society started this physical education because they believed that the strength of nation
depends upon the physical fitness of youth. Our Ancestors lifestyle and physical education and physical fitness
is much more than the grease who are considered to be well civilized in those days. Unfortunately, so called
physical education and lifestyle have started slowly dwindling to the extent that we are supposed to satisfy with
few handful of medals in the Olympic games and world athletic metes. A nation Ancient India very rich in
Athletics and our fore fathers have built a strong youth by giving them physical trainings like Yoga, Swimming,
Asana and Body Building. Unfortunately, now we are able to see those things in few pockets of India like
Haryana, Punjab, UP etc. A country with 140 crores of people of which half of them are youth, the nation should
have been number one in the World Athletic Forum. A reading of the mythological stories and other epics we
notice,
“There is a famous king by the name of Rama, born in the line of great Ikshwaku. He is of subdued sense and of
exceeding might. He has mighty arms reaching to the knees. His throat is marked with three auspicious conch
shell lines. He has high and broad shoulders, well-formed head, graceful forehead, strongest jaws, and deeply
embedded collar bones. His eyes are large, and his colour is of soft lustrous green. He is neither too tall, nor very
short, but well-formed and of symmetrical limbs. This highly beautiful and mighty Rama is supremely
intelligent, and of eloquent speech.”
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This character Rama adorn by millions of Indians and who symbolizes not only the God of Hindus but also a
Valour representing physical strength, great qualities like Courage and Valour. Centuries after Valmiki described
Lord Rama one of the greatest poets in Sanskrit Kalidasa, who also described Rama as,
“Young, with arms long as the pole of the yoke, with sturdy shoulders, with a chest broad as a door panel, and
a full broad neck, Raghu was above his father by the excellence of his body, and yet through his modesty he
looked smaller.”
What is the secret behind this characters that poses super human force of the body and mind and is nothing but
the physical education was an integral part of the curriculum that they derived from their gurus like Dronacharya
etc. That is why in Ancient India, Physical Education was given a prominent place in the curriculum as they
believed that human being is composed of five natural elements and are guided by those elements and unless the
human being is strong enough bodily, mentally and soul cannot get the powers from the nature. The Acharyas
and Maharshis are well aware of the source of energy is spiritual but not in the physical world and by controlling
those natural elements a human being can increase his/her capacity as a receptacle of this energy. To do all these
things there are strict rules and regulations like Brahmacharya and keeping the youth’s burning aspiration for
attaining good physic, these exercises are prepared and taught to them. These exercises not only to build the
strength in the youth but also the ancient Acharyas used to put these exercises in containing or eliminating the
physical fitnesses/ailments and a part of treatment. The same can be compared in some of our modern medical
treatment such as physiotherapy. It clearly shows that this physical education is not a new concept but is derived
from the Ancient Indian culture. One of the famous Acharyas who devoted his life towards medicine and authored
Charaka Samhita relates this fitness of the body with a non-disease existence. In a sense, a person who is well
proportioned in flush, well knit in figure and firm of sense is not likely to be overpowered by violent diseases.
:
Some of the physical exercises that are practiced in Ancient India to build up a Athletic body are practice of
Anchery which develops concentration and pinpointing the object, churning of wood sticks to produce fire,
running in the battle field and stretching of powerful bow, the same Ancient Literature throws light on physical
fitness to keep and develop strength and fitness of the warriors, the Ancient Indians developed a range of physical
exercises called Vyayamas, sports and games (Krida), these physical exercises are used to train people from all
walks of life, in accordance with their physical fitness. Some of the physical trainings that are developed and
practiced in India are Asva-kanduka-krida, horse riding and for which special play grounds are prepared (Krida
Pranganam). Education in particular physical education as seen by the Maharshis in Ancient
India aimed at,
“Perfection-a perfection of total human nature”.
It is well known fact that in Ancient India 64 skills and that includes physical education. Now let us examine,
the difference between Gyms, Healthcare Clubs and fitness clubs, the main difference between gym and wellness
centre is,
“A gym and wellness center is that while gyms focus on physical health and fitness, wellness centers pay attention
to fitness.”
Again when you differentiate between a health club and gym,
“A gym mainly focuses on physical exercise with equipment like weights and cardio machines, while a health
club offers gym facilities plus additional amenities.”
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And coming to the fitness club and comparing the same with a gym we can notice that “both options focus on
physical fitness, they often cater to different needs offer unique equipment and provide varying services and
amenities”.
When we go through the definition of wellness club and examine how it differs from the present gym,
“A wellness club offers a holistic approach to well being, focusing on the mind, body and spirit, whereas a
traditional gym primarily concentrates on physical fitness and exercise.”
An Abstract of the subject matter taken out from Artificial Intelligence makes it clear,
Overall, holistic well-being, including
physical, mental, and emotional health.
Physical fitness, muscle building, and
calorieburning through individual exercise.
A wide variety of services such as yoga,
meditation, nutrition counseling, spa
treatments, cryotherapy, and social events.
Primarily provides access to workout equipment
like free weights, cardio machines, and resistance
machines.
Fosters social connection and a community-
driven environment through group activities
and social gatherings.
Often encourages individual, solitary workouts
where people may tune out with headphones.
Employ professionals like doctors, nurses,
and certified nutritionists in addition to
fitness trainers.
Staff typically includes personal trainers and
group exercise instructors, who are not qualified
to provide medical advice.
The atmosphere is often designed to be
relaxed, calming, and restorative.
The environment can be loud and energetic, with
a focus on intense, individual workouts.
Typically has higher membership fees due to
the greater range of services and professional
staff.
Generally, offers lower-cost memberships with
fewer services.
Appeals to those who want a comprehensive,
balanced lifestyle and may be looking to
manage or prevent health issues.
Caters to individuals who are self-motivated,
confident in their workout routines, and primarily
focused on physical fitness.
This physical education right from the Ancient India can be divided into, “Ancient era, medieval era, colonial
era, contemporary era”. As far as Ancient era is considered in Physical fitness is considered it is full of traditional
Hindu thought, like cultivation of the body (Dehavuda) whereas during Buddhist era who developed the great
Universities of the then World as Nalanda and Takshasila, also taught various forms of physical exercises like
swimming, archery and subsequent era Buddhism, Buddha himself a well acquainted with martial arts before his
enlightenment. In those days, a variety of games and war training activities are predominant for both men and
women and is called the traditional Indian Physical culture. These people in those days have no modern
equipment as we seen out now but developed such physical fitness exercises like archery, wrestling (kusti), dand
(gada), baithak (hindu squat) or deep knee bend on toes, yoga which has taken place in later years as one of the
main physical fitness exercise throughout the Universe to develop physical, mental and spiritual practice and
finally disciplined way of life.
As we are well aware the predominance of Ayurveda, the Indian Medicine and way of life in those days gave
much importance to the physical exercises for the maintenance of good health. Ayurveda believed the
consequences resulting from physical exercises that makes lightness of the body, capacity for work,
collectedness, power of enduring hardship, but also those exercises removes imperfections from the body and
helps in augmentation of digestive life.
Vyayama/Physical exercise is nothing but an essential part of a person to maintain his/her normal health and also
helps to carry out daily tasks with energy and attentiveness. Without consume tiredness and with ample vigor.
Vyayama (Vi + A + Yam + Ghan)a is the term, especially used in Ayurveda for the physical activities, which can
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be identified with the ‘physical exercise’ in the present time. The definition fo Vyayama has been given in the
Carakasamhita, thus:
“sarira cesta ya cesta sthairyatha
balavardhini,
dehavyaydmasankhyata matraya
tam samacaret.’,
(That exertion of body which is productive of good consequences to the body itself, which conduces to
concentration of mind and increases strength is called physical exercise. One should have recourse to it in due
measure). This verse is the aphorism of Vyayama given in the Caraka Samhita, and according to this definition,
vyayama promotes the perfect health which includes both the body and mind.
In Ancient India, the physical fitness exercises are not meant for not only to keep the body intact but also the
ancient fitness exercises are included in mental wellness and being to include spirituality so that not only the
body but the person should always keep his mind also clean and fit that is why they made emphasis on physical
fitness, mental wellbeing and also to keep the soul towards spirituality.
However with the passage of time the decline of that ancient culture influenced by colonial rule and the
subsequent mushroom growth of fitness clubs, gyms and wellness clubs has changed the total arena of Ancient
Physical exercises. The present youth spending their most valuable time and money in attending those clubs and
fitness centres to look trim and with shaped bodies but unfortunately some of these westernized fitness clubs and
gyms are giving the side effects. As an example a recent incident took place in Karnataka, a well-known hero
died due to excessive fitness exercises and finally cardiac arrest.
While deciding and adapting the types of physical fitness exercises one has to look into the human body of the
person who wants to go for the exercises. Human body is composed of number of muscles and bones like an
locomotive to ensure shift and efficient working of locomotive number of precautions are to be take so that the
longevity may be increased in the same manner, a human body as already mentioned above composed of
numerous muscles and bones one should be careful enough in adapting the physical exercises not as a thumb
rule but should be designed to near perfection keeping in mind the composition and present situation of that
person. Presently more people are health conscious and want to look like young with an attractive figure (body
shape) should not rush to these wellness centers and gyms without knowing the conditions thereon and whether
they suit to their body or not. The subject is very vast and it has gone number of changes as per the circumstances
and way of life and influence of western countries. It is difficult to bring the entire cream of the subject into
one’s own fold. Finally as we seen in the present physical education exercises, “Gym – Place for workout, Fitness
centre – a place for full body fitness, health club – a place for body and mind.”
Thought fitness industry in India is booming and mushroom growth of finess clubs and gyms are coming up and
more youth both men and women are drawn to these centres, who are offering wide range of fitness classes,
Cardio machines and specialized training areas. It has become difficult to choose a perfect place to reach one’s
own physical fitness goals though appears to be easier is not that much easy. The present gym centres generally
known for their strength training areas and cardio equipments like threadmills and stationary bikes, on the other
hand fitness clubs go beyond the basics by offering specialized services like fitness classes, personal training,
swimming and spa.
Finally, whatever may be route to get into fitness classes through fitness exercises manually and with equipment
one has to take a decision keeping in mind one’s own body condition and to decide what type of exercise is
needed and help the body, mind and soul.
Since Ancient period wellness/fitness is considered as, not the absence of illness but to encompass a harmonious
integration of physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing with a vision in which Vyayama plays a central role. The
key insights drawn from Ancient Ayurvedic works coupled with historical evidence, and the present comparative
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analysis of wellness practices, it is evident that Vyayama, as outlined by eminent Acharyas such as Charaka,
Sushruta, and Vagabhatta, represents a holistic and time-tested approach to health and physical fitness that
integrates physical movement with mental and spiritual equilibrium. The practice of Vyayama is not merely a
means of enhancing physical fitness but serves as a cornerstone for disease prevention, mental clarity, and social
harmony by regulating the body’s natural energies and supporting daily homeostasis. Drawing from the teachings
of Ayurveda and the lived wisdom of eminent Maharshis and Acharyas, the study envisages the importance of
moderation, personalized regimen, and adaptation to seasonal and individual needs for sustaining health.
Adopting these age-old but time-tested principles may provide a more sustainable solution to modern wellness
challenges, urging a return to integrated lifestyle practices that align with the rhythms of nature and the
constitution of each individual. The reviewed evidence confirms that coordinated adoption of exercises, balanced
diet, regular sleep, and mindful lifestyle practices leads to improved immunity, heightened metabolic power
(agni), and greater resilience to stress and ailments.
To conclude the use of Vyayama according to ancient traditions and culture at present wellness care, which is
essential for a person to maintain his/her normal health and also to carry out daily tasks without undue tiredness
and makes the body, mind and soul stress free and keeps the body a path to self-realization.
Finally, to conclude in my perspective while deciding between gym and a wellness center it is essential to
consider one’s own individual needs and goals though both gym and wellness centers offers good opportunities
for physical fitness but to improve physical health and overall wellbeing with the options available now days
one must be careful enough to choose type of wellness exercise or gym that will fit into the one’s own body’s
needs because there are mushroom growth of these centers and people should not fall prey to the offers. There is
no yardstick to measure or to make a common agenda because in physical fitness it depends upon one’s own
physical strength and mental ability etc. that differs from person to person. That is why Maharshi Vagabhatta
made it clear that,
“Healthy life is a dedication to overall wellbeing, the Maharshis teachings as mentioned above offer a
comprehensive approach to health by addressing the body, mind and spirit respectively. Those teaching are valid
and relevant even today because those are time tested and proved their worthiness. The Maharshis ideas though
was annunciated longback are still enable people to take control of their health like taking proper food, everyday
activities or the application of natural therapies.”
Finally to conclude, it is my considered opinion that,
“Inspiration from Maharshi Vagabhatta’s ageless wisdom as one concentrates on maintaining his/her health
and equilibrium by adopting those teachings one can get the advantage of living in balance for the natural world,
but not living, but healthy living is a journey rather than a destination and it begins with a single step in the
direction of mindfulness and balance.” I quote,
“aharacaracestasu sukharthi pretya cehaca,
param prayatnamatisthed – buddhiman
hitasevane. “ – CS. 1.7.60
2
(One endowed with
intelligence and desirous of happiness both here
and hereafter, should, bent upon achieving what
is beneficial, bestow great care upon everything
connected with food, deportment and physical
practices). (7) (www.researchgate.com)
1. Procedure to a Happy life: According to Ashtangahridayam – Sangeeta Karmakar, Assistant Professor,
Durgapur Women’s College – IJCRT Journal – www.ijcrt.org
2. Maharishi Vagabhata Ayurveda & Yoga Shaikshik Sansthan – Information Leaflet
3. Physical Education in Ancient India – www.incarnateword.com
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4. Susruta of India, an unrecognized contributor to the history of exercise, physiology –
www.researchgage.com
5. Swinging clubs from Indian culture and society to British fitness culture: A history well told – Hans
Bolling – PhD in History, Independent Scholar – www.idrottsforum.org
6. Indian Physical Culture – Wikipedia – www.en.wikipedia.org
7. Use of Vyayama or Physical Exercise Prescribed in Ayurveda- www.researchgate.com
8. Vyayama culture in Ancient India – www.researchgate.com
9. Naveganadharaniya Adhyaya, Charaka Samhita Sutra Sthana – www.researchgate.com
10. Vyayam – Phsyical Exercise, in context to Ayurveda: A review
11. What are the differences between a gym, health club and fitness center? – Ezfacility – www.ezfacility.com
12. What is the difference between a health club and a gym? – www.quoradigest.com
