A REVIEW OF NABHI MARMA AND ITS IMPLICATIONS IN YOGIC PRACTICES

*Dr. Madhulika D. Tiwari and Dr. Sanjivani A. Jadhao

ABSTRACT

Marma are vital centres or subtle energy fields of the body. Marmas are important aspect in yogic practices with which ayurveda is closely connected. The word Nabhi is of varied importance as it has relevance to vital spot (marma) and as a regional landmark. Its clinical and functional importance is based on these grounds. Nabhi marma is described under udar gat marmas and injuries inflicting it lead to immediate death or death within seven days. Nabhi marma located at the navel region is house of prana, seat of Agni, and is also related to pitta and samana vayu. Physio-anatomical structures related to digestive and excretory process are in close vicinity to nabhi marma. Marmas are related to the 7 chakras(energy centre) and 14 nadis(subtle channel) systems emphasized in yogic thought Manipur chakra which is supposed to control all the abdominal organs related to digestive and excretory system. Present study is about different views regarding nabhi marma and to study the correlation between nabhi marma and yogic practices with its implications for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Nabhi marma has great importance in yogic practices and its manipulations have great impact on digestive and excretory system. An understanding of marmas can add greater efficacy to any level or type of yoga practice whether using body, the breath or the mind. Manipulation of nabhi marma through marma therapy and various yogic practices can stimulate the organs under nabhi marma, smooth muscles of gastro intestinal tract become stronger and digestion power improves. Excretion of waste products takes place in a better way. Yogic practices play an important role to restore the proper connection between the subtle body (our internal energy, moods and emotions) & the physical body resulting in increased health and vitality on both levels.

Keywords: Marma, Nabhi, Yogic Practice.