Suma Patra October 2025
Aranya : Afforestation and Plantation
Our cities, vibrant hubs of human activity and innovation, are also facing unprecedented environmental challenges. Rapid urbanisation often leads to concrete jungles, escalating pollution levels, rising temperatures, and a profound disconnect from nature. This is where urban plantation and afforestation step in, offering not just a green aesthetic but a vital lifeline for a […]
January 2025 Suma Patra E-Magazine
Suma Patra October 2024
Vrikshasana: The Tree Pose
This asana features a fundamental skill, that is balance and this posture helps to develop the muscles in the feet and legs by maintaining a standard upright position. A fixed focal point on which to lock the gaze can help prevent losing one’s balance, thus teaching one single minded focus. Vriksha or tree, holds a […]
Gaja-asana: The Elephant Pose
Gaja is the Sanskrit word for elephant and the Asana is aptly named for its resemblance to that of an elephant trunk. This Asana is done by bending down with the arms extending forward like the long trunk of an elephant. This pose helps to develop strength in the arms and abdominal muscles. The Shiva […]
Surya Namaskar : Sun Salutation
The Surya Namaskar is a foundational yoga posture originating from the Ashtanga Vinyasa method of Mysore and it serves as the beginning of many styles of Asana practice. In Hindu temples, the sun god Surya is shown riding a chariot with seven horses indicating seven days of the week. Each of the 12 wheels of […]
Siddhasana: The Accomplished
Siddhi is the Sanskrit word for “enlightenment” and perhaps a reference to the posture used for the practice of Dhyana (focus). This asana offers the widest base for cross legged seated position and is therefore among the most stable. This quality makes it ideal for maintaining one’s posture for continued Pranayam (regulating the flow of […]
Padamasana: The Lotus Pose
Padamasana is perhaps the most widely known Asana. It offers a stable position which allows for ideal alignment. Its name is a reference to the lotus itself, which thrives in the stillness of calm water. The lotus blooms in mud, but remains unblemished, thus representing purity and rising above dirt and stagnation. The water rolling […]
Mango Trees in Hindu Mythology
The mango tree is an inseparable part of Indian culture and folklore. Considered sacred, the history of the mango tree can be traced back to the bronze age, or almost 4,000 years ago. Originally, a native of southern Asia, especially eastern India, the mango tree was introduced to southeast Asian countries by Buddhist monks. Later, […]