स्वास्थ्य क्या है: जाने

Summary

The text defines health as "swa+stha," meaning to reside within oneself, where the body's fundamental quality is health, and illness is an accidental deviation. It identifies health as a complex modern problem, noting that despite numerous systems like allopathic, homeopathic, ayurvedic, and naturopathic medicine, ill health is increasing. Health is categorized into three interconnected types: physical, mental, and emotional. The primary cause of physical ill health is an irregular daily routine, including late sleeping and waking, and a lack of exercise. A second cause is dietary indiscipline, such as eating fried, spicy, and unwholesome foods, and a shift from simple, natural diets to hotel food. Overeating is a third cause, with Lord Mahavira listing excessive, harmful, frequent, and stimulating foods as sources of disease. Consumption of intoxicants like alcohol, tobacco, and drugs is another factor, providing false energy but ultimately weakening the body. For physical health, the text recommends a regular routine, early rising, light morning meals, and exercise like yoga, walking, and sports. It advises living in open, unpolluted areas with ample greenery and avoiding stimulants. For emotional health, it notes that modern life, especially in Western countries, is filled with stress, where people are entangled in external circumstances and cannot see inner light. Mental ill health stems from anxieties over basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter, and from dwelling on future fantasies that lead to disappointment when shattered. A third cause is a poor environment, particularly a lack of love and encouragement from parents, which hinders a child's development. The text concludes that a healthy body and a happy mind require a balanced diet, fasting, a vegetarian diet, and a sweet demeanor.