Problems Associated with Samana Vayu Imbalance

 

Vayus are the air channels of the body. The yogis have identified five such vayus in the body present in different locations of the body. The main purpose of these vayus is to lend vitality to the body and to keep the cells of the body oxygenated. These are crucial to the functioning of the different organs of the body and achieve a balance between the physical and mental state of existence. Out of these five vayus, Samana vayu is the one which is located at the centre of the body, in the abdomen region. It moves from the periphery of the body to the core of it close to the navel region which is also the place of the Manipura Chakra.

While each of these vayus has its own importance, there are situations in which the imbalances also occur. The body shows these symptoms. The nature of imbalance can be known by knowing what these manifestations are. Before discussing the Samana Vayu imbalances, it is important to know what role does this play. The imbalances would, naturally, put the normal functions out of order.

The first important task of this vayu is to separate the toxins from the nutrients. Since it is located in the abdominal region which is also where the small and large intestines of the body are located, there is a direct impact of this vayu on the functioning of the intestines. The absorption of the nutrients which segregating the waste material is an important function of intestine. Further, it is from the intestine that the waste material is pushed down in the form of excreta. So, if there is an imbalance, you might have problems in this function such as constipation, diarrhea, IBS and so on. If this malfunctioning carries on for long, even the ulcers can form.

Another important function of the Samana vayu is at the mental level. It is not possible to achieve mental peace and harmony due to imbalance in this vayu. Why? The reason is that the brain gets the signals of various illnesses arising out of its malfunctioning which means that it does not remain peace. There is always a nagging tension or stress level. This can lead to indecisiveness, anger, frustration and dullness.

There is a general assumption that the imbalance of vayus in certain parts is manifested in the problems of that region. So, imbalances related to stomach, liver, intestines etc. organs are due to imbalances of the vayu which operates there, that is Samana Vayu. And, of course, with every imbalance there is a mental association as well. Therefore, the mental disorders can be known and their association with vayu imbalances are direct.

 

Corrections to Imbalances

With these disorders and their symptoms known, the corrective actions are taken in order to restore the balance in the vayu. This is achieved with asana, pranayama, meditation and to some extent by the food we eat. There could be medical interventions to achieve this balance as well. These interventions took the form of Ayurveda in ancient times.