Ananda Marga: Difference between revisions

# [[#Sadhana (spiritual practice)|Sadhana (spiritual practice)]]

After urination, a little water is to be poured over the urinary organ or area. This stimulates the excretion of urine remaining in the bladder, reducing the likelihood of kidney stones. It also reduces the excitation of the lower ''cakras'' (energy centers), mainly the ''múládhára'' cakra. When outside the home, a small container of water (''shaoca manjusa'') is to be carried to ensure that this cleanliness practice may be maintained. (This is in addition to the common practice of cleanliness after defecation.)

To maintain cleanliness of the genital area and reduce unwanted stimulation of the genitalia, males should ensure that the foreskin remains pulled back. If need be, a minor operation may be performed to enlarge the circumference of the foreskin. Females should maintain regular cleanliness of the genital area, including those areas covered by the labia. There is no need or desirability for any form of female circumcision.

Joint hair (under the arms and in the crotch) should be maintained (not cut or plucked). This hair should be cleaned daily. A little bit of oil should be applied afterwards, and the hair may be combed. This practice helps to regulate the vital energies (''práńáh''). It strengthens the nervous system by maintaining a balance of body heat. The oil also serves as a natural deodorant.

Wear appropriate underwear. For men, this means a special loincloth, called a ''[[wikipedia:Langota|langota]]''. For women, this means panties and brassiere (or tight-fitting vest). This practice protects the sexual organs and prevents unnecessary stimulation of those organs, thereby reducing the sexual drive and enabling higher expressions of love that originate at the ''[[wikipedia:Anahata|anáhata cakra]]''.

Before meditation, meals, and sleep, perform ''vyápaka shaoca'' (half-bath). This is done by first washing (with water) the genital area, second hands up to elbows and legs up to knees; then, taking a mouthful of water, splash water on the eyes and face at least twelve times. Finally wash the ears and the neck. If your stomach is empty, you may also do ''násápána'' (flushing the nostrils with water). This practice gives a sense of freshness and energy, lowers blood pressure, and improves eyesight.

Take a full bath at least once a day. In a very hot climate, take a full bath at least twice a day. Before drying the body, face the sun or a bright light, and perform the bath mantra (''pitr yajiṋa''). The associated gestures express the spirit of the mantra while ensuring that the rays of light are absorbed evenly throughout the upper torso. This practice amplifies the benefits of [[#Constant cleanliness|half-bath]] and promotes humility and spirituality.