By Yogi Ashwini

Weak joints, wrinkled skin, graying hair – these are the signs of body succumbing to ageing. It is true that the body is constantly moving towards destruction, but it is also true that there exist ways to arrest this process.

Ageing is synonymous to loss of sukra in the body. Sukra is the subtle element that provides luster to hair and skin, strength to joints and organs, longevity, and attraction normally seen in abundance in saints and evolved beings, which pulls one towards them unknowingly. This sukra gets dried up due to constant hyperactivity and excessive ama(toxin) produced in the body due to certain unhealthy practices. The four major reasons for the loss of sukra in the body are emotional congestion, excessive physical labor, anger and overindulgence in sexual activities.  A practitioner of Sanatan Kriya is able to check all four without having to make a conscious effort or suppressing any desires.

While curtailing these prevents ageing by inhibiting cell degeneration, there also exist certain yogic measures to reverse the process of ageing by revitalizing the cells.  Here are some secrets of the ancients for their perennial youth and glow.

1. SARVANGASANA

Lie on the back. Inhale and using the support of hands, gently raise both the legs to an upright position while keeping them joined, toes pointing upwards.

Thereafter, roll up the buttocks; the lower, middle and upper back such that the entire body up to the upper back is in one straight line, perpendicular to the ground.

The shoulders and head are on the ground, chin tucked into the chest and hands support the body. Retain this posture. Release while exhaling.

People suffering from cervical spondylitis, slip disc and high blood pressure must not perform this asana.

2. HALASANA

Lie on the back. Inhale and raise both the legs taking them over your head, to touch the toes on the floor. Palms maybe placed on the lower back to for support or can be taken backwards touching the toes. Hold this posture, exhaling return.

People suffering from stomach ailments, spinal injuries or ailments of the neck should refrain from practicing this asana.

To complement these yogasanas, an extremely effective Ayurvedic antidote to ageing skin is black grapes.  They maybe taken orally or crushed and applied on face.

Yogi Ashwini is the Guiding Light of Dhyan Foundation and an authority on the Vedic Sciences. His book, 'Sanatan Kriya, The Ageless Dimension' is an acclaimed thesis on anti-ageing. Log onto to www.dhyanfoundation.com or mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  for more.