Shadaavashyak: A Technique for Self Management (Based on Jain Scriptures)

Abstract

Introduction:Most of the people today are mentally disturbed as they found themselves incapable of handling the situation. The reason is lack of correct understanding of people around, thing, incident and circumstances. To address such issues Shad Aavashyak (six essentials/Pratikraman) can be adopted for Self-management for a balanced, happy, contented life.

Objectives: The research aims to suggest a self management tool to manage oneself by oneself by applying six essential techniques in day to day activities. It enables one developing a positive attitude and balanced personality capable to handle all situation with equanimity. Further, as in the process the body(different mudras/postures), mind (purification of thought process) and speech(devotional hymns with correct pronunciation) are involved, these have a direct effect on mental, spiritual and physical health and fitness.

Methods: There are six techniques which one can use in two sittings in a day while sittinng 48 minuts in one go. (1) Samaiyak (withdraw oneself from worldy affairs and remain equanimous) (2) Chaturvinshatistava, (devotional hymn so that qualities of God can be emulated in oneself) (3) Vandan,(to show gratefulness towards mentor/Guru) (4) Pratikraman (introspection of wrong dees/sinful activities during the day/night) (5) Kayotsarg,(withdrawl from bodily affairs and meditate) (6) Pratyakhyaan (Repentence of wrong deeds with commitment of non-repeating in future).

Results:It is helpful in time management and emotion management as by freeing oneself from unnecessary tasks, both energy and time are saved. This is the best way to remove mental stress and every work can be done with vigour and freshness. The recitation of the mantras by raising the left knee and Namaskar Mudra help in dissolving the ego and develops positive thinking along with increasing appreciation of qualities. The body becomes balanced and the nervous system becomes healthy. Mental and physical stress ease out. The person become calm and happy.

Conclusions:The shadaavashyak is an act of of self-introspection and self-purification with a larger objective of salvation for spiritual seekers as it enables one to detach oneself for a certain length of time from all external activity and dwell within one’s self. With a practice one can experience the inner self. Furter, for worldy people also it gives a different and real perspective to understand the things with calmness. Maintain equanimity in all situations. Develop a personality of appreaciating good things in others and condemning bad deeds by one with promise of non-reapeating. It helps in developing a balanced, happy personality.