Abstract

ROLE OF SWASTHAVRITTA AND YOGA IN SPORTS MEDICINE

Pranjal Hiralal Patil* and Rajesh Shah

Abstract

Sports medicine is a branch of medicine that deals with physical fitness and the treatment and prevention of injury related to sport and exercise. Direct references of this neither mentioned in ancient nor in modern medicine. When we go through the ayurvedic samhita we definitely do not find direct references regarding a speciality called sports medicine. Yoga helps the muscles, tendons, and ligaments move through a full range of motion, thus cultivating balance and core strength which is a huge benefit to athletes in their chosen sports. The attention to breath during yoga can be considered one of the most important benefits to athletes. Learning to stay focused and centred through uncomfortable poses by concentrating on even inhalations and exhalations sets up the athlete to stay focused during a race or challenging workout. The mind-body connection in yoga is essential to helping athletes develop mental acuity and concentration. The aim of this study is to explore hidden references and role of swasthavritta and yoga in sport medicine.

Keywords: Athlete, Yoga, Injury, Muscle, Performance.