Defying the Odds: How My Yoga Instructor Helped Me Conquer Chronic Disc Bulge Against All Odds

In life, there are moments when we find ourselves facing seemingly insurmountable challenges. For me, it was the diagnosis of a chronic disc bulge, Grade 2, accompanied by the recommendation of surgery

by multiple well renowned Neurosurgeons. However, against the odds, I found a guiding light in the form of my remarkable yoga instructor. With her unparalleled expertise, unwavering support, and a personalized approach to healing, she played an instrumental role in helping me overcome my condition and regain control of my life.

When I received the news of my chronic disc bulge, I was overwhelmed with despair. The pain was debilitating, and the prospects of undergoing surgery were daunting. It was in this moment of vulnerability that I discovered the transformative power of yoga. Encouraged by my desire to improve my condition, I sought out a yoga instructor who specialized in therapeutic practices, and little did I know how much this decision would change my life.

From our very first meeting, my yoga instructor exuded compassion and expertise. She took the time to understand my condition, my limitations, and my goals. While the doctors had advised surgery, my yoga instructor provided an alternative path to healing, instilling in me a sense of hope that I had not felt before.

What set my yoga instructor apart was her ability to tailor each session to my unique needs. Recognising the importance of alignment and posture, she meticulously crafted a practice that would gradually build

strength, improve flexibility, and promote healing. Her deep understanding of anatomy allowed them to guide me through poses and modifications that targeted the specific areas affected by the disc bulge. Throughout our sessions, my yoga instructor demonstrated unwavering patience and unwavering support. She celebrated every milestone, no matter how small, and gently pushed me beyond my perceived limitations. She reminded me that healing is a journey, and that progress should be measured not only by physical changes but also by the growth in mental resilience and self-compassion.

My yoga instructor's impact extended far beyond the confines of our practice sessions. She equipped me with valuable knowledge and tools to continue my healing journey outside the studio. Through personalized routines, recommended poses, and helpful resources, she empowered me to take control of my own well-being and integrate yoga into my daily life.

Against all odds, I can proudly say that I have overcome my chronic disc bulge without the need for surgery. Yoga, guided by my exceptional instructor, has been the catalyst for my transformation. Not only have I experienced a significant reduction in pain, improved posture, and enhanced physical capabilities, but I have also tapped into the profound mental and spiritual benefits that yoga offers.

To my extraordinary yoga instructor, words cannot express the depth of my gratitude. You defied conventional wisdom and helped me conquer a condition that once seemed insurmountable. Your dedication, expertise, and unwavering belief in my ability to heal have forever changed my life. You are a testament to the incredible impact a caring and skilled teacher can have on their students.

My journey of overcoming chronic disc bulge serves as a testament to the power of yoga and the transformative guidance of an exceptional instructor. Against all odds, I defied medical advice and discovered the healing potential within my own body. To those facing similar challenges, I urge you to seek the support of a knowledgeable yoga instructor who can guide you on your path to recovery. With their expertise and your determination, you too can triumph over adversity and embrace a life of strength, resilience, and well-being.

-Sunny Gusain

* Views are personal

The Damaging Impact of Religion in Public Space on Democracy

Democracy is founded on the principles of equality, freedom, and pluralism. It thrives when citizens can express their diverse views and participate in decision-making processes without fear of discrimination or exclusion. However, the intrusion of religion, particularly Hindutva ideology, into public space can undermine these democratic ideals and pose significant challenges. This article explores how the presence of Hindutva ideology in public discourse and policy-making can damage democracy.

• Undermining Secularism:

Secularism, the separation of religion and state, is a fundamental pillar of democracy. The rise of Hindutva ideology in India has challenged the secular fabric of society. For example, the Babri Masjid demolition in 1992, carried out by Hindutva activists, violated the principles of secularism and led to communal tensions. The privileging of Hinduism and the promotion of Hindutva-based policies can marginalize minority faiths, erode the secular nature of the state, and undermine religious freedom for non-Hindus.

• Exclusion and Discrimination:

Hindutva ideology in public space fosters an environment that perpetuates exclusion and discrimination. The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) in India, which was seen by critics as a manifestation of Hindutva ideology, selectively granted citizenship based on religious affiliation, excluding Muslims. This policy generated widespread protests, highlighting the discriminatory nature of Hindutva-driven initiatives and their impact on minority communities.

• Hindrance to Rational Decision-Making:

Public policy decisions should be based on reason, evidence, and the overall welfare of society. However, the influence of Hindutva ideology can hinder rational decision-making. For instance, the controversy surrounding the Taj Mahal, one of India's most iconic monuments, was fueled by Hindutva narratives questioning its historical significance based on religious interpretations. This erosion of rationality impedes progress and diverts attention away from crucial issues such as poverty alleviation, education, and healthcare.

• Polarization and Conflict:

Hindutva ideology in public space can exacerbate social and political divisions, leading to polarization and conflict. Communal violence, such as the 2002 Gujarat riots, highlighted the destructive consequences of sectarian politics influenced by Hindutva ideology. The exploitation of religious sentiments for political gain further deepens societal divisions, hindering dialogue and cooperation necessary for a healthy democracy.

• Impediment to Individual Autonomy:

Democracy recognizes and upholds individual autonomy, granting citizens the freedom to make choices based on their own values, beliefs, and conscience. However, Hindutva ideology in public space can restrict this autonomy. For instance, the controversial "Love Jihad" laws proposed by certain states in India seek to regulate interfaith marriages, infringing on personal choices and targeting specific religious communities. Such measures curtail individual liberties and undermine the democratic principles of personal freedom and autonomy.

The damaging impact of religion, specifically Hindutva ideology, in public space on democracy is evident through various examples. From undermining secularism and promoting exclusion and discrimination to hindering rational decision-making, fueling polarization, and impeding individual autonomy, Hindutva-driven narratives and policies pose significant challenges to democratic principles. Balancing religious freedom with the secular nature of public governance is crucial for safeguarding democracy's core values. By promoting inclusive dialogue, respect for diverse perspectives, and the separation of Hindutva ideology from the state, societies can strive towards upholding democratic principles and protecting citizens from the damaging effects of religious intrusion in public space.

-Sunny Gusain

* Views are personal

The Kerela Story?

Truth or Propaganda?

Islamophobia, the irrational fear and hatred of Islam and Muslims, is a growing problem in many parts of the world, including India. Over the past few years, there has been a rise in instances of discrimination and violence against Muslims in India, fueled by the rhetoric and actions of the country's administration.

The current administration, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has been accused of promoting a Hindu nationalist agenda at the expense of other religious and ethnic groups, particularly Muslims. This has led to an increase in the marginalization and stigmatization of Muslims in Indian society, as well as the normalization of anti-Muslim sentiment. One way in which the administration has sought to exploit prejudices and fuel Islamophobia is through the spread of propaganda and disinformation. The BJP has a massive social media presence and has been accused of using these platforms to spread false information and hate speech about Muslims, painting them as a threat to Indian society.

Another tactic used by the administration is to perpetuate the myth that Muslims are somehow disloyal to India, and that they pose a threat to national security. This has been used to justify policies that discriminate against Muslims, such as the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) which fast-tracks citizenship for non-Muslim refugees from neighboring countries, while making it more difficult for Muslim refugees to gain citizenship.

The administration has also sought to indoctrinate young people with its Hindu nationalist ideology, through the education system and other means. In some instances, textbooks have been revised to promote a more Hindu-centric view of Indian history and culture, while ignoring or downplaying the contributions of other groups, including Muslims.

All of these actions by the administration have contributed to a climate of fear and intolerance towards Muslims in India. This has led to a rise in hate crimes against Muslims, including mob violence and lynchings. In some cases, Muslims have been targeted simply for their religion, with no evidence of any wrongdoing.

It is important to note that Islamophobia is not unique to India, and that it is a global phenomenon that affects Muslims in many countries. However, the situation in India is particularly concerning, given the size of the Muslim population and the fact that the country is a democracy with a secular constitution. 

Third Class Citizens?

To address this problem, it is important for the administration to acknowledge the harm caused by its actions and rhetoric, and to take concrete steps to combat Islamophobia and promote religious harmony. This could include measures such as education campaigns to promote tolerance and respect for all religions, as well as legal and policy reforms to protect the rights of minorities and prevent discrimination. Ultimately, the fight against Islamophobia in India requires a concerted effort by all members of society, including religious leaders, civil society organizations, and individuals. Only by working together to challenge prejudice and promote inclusion and respect can we build a society that truly reflects the values of democracy and secularism. The rise of Islamophobia in India is not just a manifestation of political rhetoric and propaganda, but is also linked to deeper societal issues such as patriarchy and the phenomenon of "love jihad".

The concept of "love jihad" is a baseless and Islamophobic conspiracy theory that alleges that Muslim men are engaging in a deliberate campaign to convert Hindu women to Islam through romantic relationships. This narrative has been used to stoke fear and hatred towards Muslims, particularly Muslim men, and has led to instances of violence against interfaith couples.

At the heart of the "love jihad" narrative is a patriarchal worldview that views women as property to be protected and controlled by men, and that sees interfaith relationships as a threat to social and cultural norms. This patriarchal mindset is reinforced by a wider societal structure that prioritizes men's voices and interests over those of women, and that often excludes women from positions of power and decision-making.

The impact of patriarchy is also evident in the ways in which Islamophobia is manifested in India. Women who wear the hijab or other traditional Islamic clothing are often subject to harassment and discrimination, and are viewed with suspicion by the wider society. This is because the hijab is seen as a marker of Muslim identity, which is itself associated with terrorism and extremism in popular discourse.

To combat Islamophobia and patriarchy in India, it is necessary to challenge these harmful narratives and to promote a more inclusive and equitable society. This could involve efforts to educate people about the diverse traditions and cultures that exist within India, and to promote greater understanding and respect for all religions and cultures.

It is also important to empower women and to create opportunities for them to participate in decision-making and leadership roles. This could involve measures such as affirmative action programs, as well as efforts to challenge sexist and patriarchal attitudes and behaviors in all spheres of society.

Ultimately, the fight against Islamophobia and patriarchy in India is a complex and multifaceted struggle that requires a concerted effort by all members of society. By working together to challenge prejudice, promote inclusion, and empower marginalized communities, we can build a more just and equitable society for all.

- Sunny Gusain

*Views are personal