Pilot programme on natural health

Chennai: The ministry of Ayush has come out with a prescription for the sound health of students, particularly teenaged students facing board examinations. In a major initiative aimed at improving the overall health of the younger generation, the ministry of Ayush (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy) proposes to launch an Ayush intervention programme in the schools of Kancheepuram and Krishnagiri districts on a pilot basis.

This Ayush intervention in the school health programme, targeting those studying in classes 9, 10, and plus-one, aims at improving their physical and mental health, enhance memory and immunity through nutritional supplements, provide yoga facilities, natural health tips, healthy lifestyle and counselling through AYUSH systems of medicine.The nutritional supplement/medicines include madulai manapagu, vallarai tablets, nellikai legiyam (chyavanprash legiyam), all for a period of six months.

According to sources in Ayush, the beneficiaries have been so chosen as it is the appropriate age for them to learn yoga and become health-conscious so as to maintain equilibrium.
“Yoga practice enhances intrinsic interest and motivation in learning. Besides, the relaxation techniques calm the mind and help to focus mental energy inward. Meditation helps to relieve stress and replenish energy,” a senior official said.

In short, daily yogic practice improves their physical and mental control greatly. All medicines will be provided free to the students. Efforts would be made to provide counselling on a healthy lifestyle by experts in yoga and naturopathy attached to the nearest primary health centres.