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Comparative Study | Philosophy | Volume 15 Issue 9, September 2026 | Pages: 141 - 145 | India
The Somatic and Energetic Layer of Ashtanga Yoga: A Theoretical Synthesis of Patanjali's Codes and Telomere Dynamics in Aging
Abstract: Modern gerontology increasingly focuses on telomere attrition as a primary biomarker of cellular aging, driven largely by chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. Concurrently, ancient Eastern philosophies, specifically Patanjali's Ashtanga Yoga, offer a systemic framework for physiological and psychological regulation. This paper conducts a comparative theoretical study between the somatic and energetic layer of Patanjali's system-comprising Asana (postures), Pranayama (breath regulation), and Pratyahara (sensory withdrawal)?and modern telomere dynamics. We hypothesize that these three limbs function collectively as an autonomic regulatory switch. By systematically dismantling fascial tension, optimizing cellular bioenergetics (mitochondrial efficiency), and halting exhausting sensory outflows, this somatic-energetic architecture forces a shift from sympathetic dysregulation to profound parasympathetic dominance. This low-inflammation, highly oxygenated state is presented as the precise, non-negotiable physiological environment required for telomerase enzyme activation and telomeric DNA repair.
Keywords: Telomere attrition, Ashtanga Yoga, Cellular aging, Oxidative stress, telomerase activation
How to Cite?: Rakesh Kumar Mahajan, "The Somatic and Energetic Layer of Ashtanga Yoga: A Theoretical Synthesis of Patanjali's Codes and Telomere Dynamics in Aging", Volume 15 Issue 9, September 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 141-145, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26902191232, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26902191232