The Synergy of Yoga and Unani Philosophy

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 At the heart of Unani philosophy lies a simple but profound principle: health is harmony. Rooted in the teachings of Hippocrates and Galen and enriched over centuries by Arab and Persian scholars like Ibn Sina, Unani philosophy views the human body as a microcosm of the universe, governed by four humors—blood (dam), phlegm (balgham), yellow bile (safra), and black bile (sauda). Each humor carries unique qualities (hot, cold, moist, dry), and our physical and mental well-being depends on keeping these forces in perfect equilibrium.  

Unani Philosophy teaches us that health is maintained through the balance of four fundamental states of movement and rest, which create a dynamic blueprint for holistic well-being:

• Physical movement (harkat-e-badani) : Expressed through dynamic asana practices that stimulate circulation, strengthen the body, and mobilize vital energy 
• Physical rest (sukun-e-badani: Honored in restorative poses, conscious relaxation, and the sacred pause between movements that allows integration 
• Mental/emontional movement (harkat-e-nafsani): Addressed through pranayama techniques that direct the flow of thoughts and emotional states 
• Mental/emotional rest (sukun-e-nafsani): Cultivated in meditation practices that nurture mental tranquility and emotional equanimity 

Each class is designed thoughtfully to balance these four states, creating an experience that rejuvenates through the harmony of action and stillness, stimulation and calm 

 Movement is more than physical excercise – it is a fundanental principle governing existence itself. My approach to yoga honors the six essential forms of movement recognized in Unani wisdom: 

• Growth (harkate-e-namaa): Expansion poses that create space within the body and conciousness 
• Release (harkat-e-tasliim): Controlled surrender that allows tension to disolve naturally 
• Alteration (harkat-e-istehala): Mindful transition that honor the process of transformation 
• Position change (harkat-e-inteqal): intelligent sequencing that creates a journey through different states of being 
• Qauantitative change (harkat-e-tazayud): Progressive development of strength, flexibility, and breath capacity 
• Qualitative transformation (harkat-e-tabaddul): The subtle shifts in awareness that constitute spiritual growth 

 True wellness emerges when these movements achieve harmony – neither excessive nor deficient but flowing in their natural patterns and rhythms.  

 At the most subtle level, my practice honors Ruh – the vital spirit that animates all life. Similar to the yogic concept of prana yet distinct in its qualities, Ruh represents the refined essence that connects material and spiritual realms. 

• Breath practices that nourish and distribute Ruh throughout the body  
• Postures that create optimal channels for Ruh’s free movement 
• Meditation that develops sensitivity to Ruh’s subtle presence 
• Integration practices that harmonize vital spirit with universal life force