KEY POINTS

• The research highlights the urgent need for global action to reduce UPF intake through regulatory and fiscal policies that promote healthier dietary environments.

• Lead investigator Eduardo Augusto Fernandes Nilson emphasizes that UPFs, which are largely devoid of whole foods and rich in harmful additives, pose a serious health risk linked to various diseases and should be prioritized in public nutrition strategies.

A STUDY analyzing data from nationally representative dietary surveys and mortality data from eight countries (Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, United Kingdom, and United States) shows that premature deaths attributable to consumption of ultraprocessed foods (UPFs) increase significantly according to their share in individuals’ total energy intake.
The new study, appearing in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, published by Elsevier, reinforces the call for global action to reduce UPF consumption, supported by regulatory and fiscal policies that foster healthier environments.
UPFs are ready-to-eat-or-heat industrial formulations that are made with ingredients extracted from foods or synthesized in laboratories, with little or no whole foods in their composition.
These have gradually been replacing traditional foods and meals made from fresh and minimally processed ingredients. Lead investigator of the study, Eduardo Augusto Fernandes Nilson, DSc, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Brazil, says, “UPFs affect health beyond the individual impact of high content of critical nutrients (sodium, trans fats, and sugar) because of the changes in the foods during industrial processing and the use of artificial ingredients, including colorants, artificial flavors and sweeteners, emulsifiers, and many other additives and processing aids, so assessing deaths from all-causes associated with UPF consumption allows an overall estimate of the effect of industrial food processing on health.” ANI

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

• Some foods can be incorporated into your diet every day to help you stay healthy

• Registered dietician Reda Elmardi recommended adding berries to your diet

• He also suggested adding yogurt for the sake of your gut health 

One of the most frustrating parts of being an adult is figuring out what to feed yourself everyday. 

And while you may be tempted to opt for a microwavable pizza every night, health experts want to make sure that you're incorporating nutritional foods into your diet.

One way to do this is to try and put some key, healthy foods into your everyday diet. 

Luckily, most of the foods that nutritionists recommend eating on a daily basis are super common, and most likely already on your grocery list. 

Now, some dieticians and health experts warn against eating the same foods every day, but this typically applies to full meals. 

Registered dietician and nutritionist Shelley Balls told DailyMail.com, 'It limits variety which is crucial for overall health, especially gut health.' 

But that doesn't mean you can't take some really important foods and find ways to include them in your daily meals. 

In fact, there are a few foods that nutritionists themselves recommend eating everyday. 

Oats  

'Oats are an excellent source of whole grains and contain plenty of fiber and nutrients that make them a healthy meal or snack, registered dietician Trisha Best told DailyMail.com.

She said that these benefits can sometimes be overshadowed when people decide to add excessive sugar or calorie-dense toppings.

But, when made with mix-ins like nuts, cinnamon, blueberries, strawberries, and bananas, they can be great options. 

'The fiber in oatmeal keeps you feeling full for longer, which can prevent overeating throughout the morning. The whole grains keep your blood sugar stabilized, preventing spikes and dips that are associated with increased weight gain,' Best said.

Basil Seeds  

You might assume 'chia seeds' if any seeds would be included in this list, but registered dietician Stacy-Roberts Davis said basil seeds are the way to go.

'It's high in fiber, protein, iron and potassium. It's a better choice than chia seeds,' she said.

She also explained that just two tablespoons of basil seeds has 15 grams of fiber in it - more than half of what your daily intake should be! 

Spinach 

You probably already know that you want to incorporate leafy greens into your diet, but did you know that spinach in specific is a great choice to eat every day? 'Spinach is packed with magnesium, iron and antioxidants, helping reduce inflammation, supporting muscle recovery and promoting relaxation - all of which aid in better sleep,' nutritionist and registered dietician Amy Shapiro said. Plus, spinach is a non-greasy vegetable - meaning that it won't cause you any stomach issues.  

Yogurt  

Registered dietician Reda Elmardi emphasized the importance of gut-healthy foods. 'Most people don’t realize that digestion impacts everything - mood, immunity, weight,' he said. That's why yogurt is on Elmardi's list of foods to eat every day. Yogurt is rich in probiotics, calcium, and protein. 'Trust me, your gut will thank you,' Elmardi said. 

Berries 

Whether you're more of a strawberry person or have an inclination toward blueberries, it doesn't matter. 'Blueberries, raspberries, strawberries - they fight inflammation, boost brain function, and keep blood sugar in check. Bonus: they taste amazing,' Elmardi said.  He explained that adding berries to your everyday diet will help you age better and keep your heart healthy. 

Source: Mail Online

LIFESTYLE and health factors that are linked with heart disease appear to have a greater impact on cardiovascular risk in women than men, according to a study being presented at the American College of Cardiology’s Annual Scientific Session.
While diet, exercise, smoking, and blood pressure have long been associated with heart disease risk, the new study is the first to indicate that these correlations are higher in women than in males.
According to the researchers, the findings indicate that sex-specific screening or risk assessment methodologies could provide a more realistic picture of cardiovascular risk and better drive people to adopt heart-healthy habits.
“For the same level of health, our study shows that the increase in risk [related to each factor] is higher in women than in men–it’s not one-size-fits-all,” said Maneesh Sud, MD, PhD, assistant professor in the department of medicine, interventional cardiologist and clinician scientist at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Toronto and the study’s lead author. “This is novel and something that hasn’t been seen in other studies.”
The study focused on eight factors associated with heart disease: diet, sleep, physical activity, smoking, body mass index, blood glucose, lipids and blood pressure.
Overall, the results showed that women were more likely to have fewer negative risk factors and more positive ones compared with men. However, women with more negative risk factors faced a more pronounced increase in their chance of a heart attack, stroke or other cardiovascular event compared to men with a similar risk factor profile.
“We found that women tend to have better health than men, but the impact on outcomes is different,” Sud said. “The combination of these factors has a bigger impact in women than it does in men.”
The researchers analyzed data from over 175,000 Canadian adults who enrolled in the Ontario Health Study between 2009-2017. None of the participants had heart disease at baseline and about 60 per cent were women. Each participant was classified as having ideal or poor health in terms of each of the eight risk factors, and these scores were combined to calculate an overall risk factor profile as poor (fewer than five positive factors or more than three negative factors), intermediate (five to seven positive factors) or ideal (ideal across all eight factors). During a median follow-up period of just over 11 years, researchers tracked the incidence of seven heart disease outcomes–heart attack, stroke, unstable angina (chest pain that results from restricted blood flow to the heart), peripheral arterial disease (narrowed blood vessels in the arms or legs), heart failure, coronary revascularization (procedures to open blocked arteries) and cardiovascular death–among participants in each of the three groupings.- ANI

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

ONCE deemed overshadowed by Japanese anime and US animation, Chinese animation is now experiencing a surge in popularity, especially among younger audiences.
With improved storytelling, advanced visual effects, and a seamless integration of traditional Chinese culture, the industry is rapidly gaining recognition at home and abroad.
A recent survey conducted by China Youth Daily among 7,232 university students revealed that 40.64 per cent actively follow popular domestic animation films and series, while 30.35 per cent check for new releases on a weekly basis.
This growing interest is reflected in the success of major box office hits, including “Ne Zha 2,” which grossed over 15.08 billion yuan (about US$2.1 billion) in box office revenue and stormed into the global box office top 5, cementing Chinese animation’s place in the global animation industry.
Most respondents attribute this rise to the ability of Chinese animated works to blend traditional cultural elements with modern cinematic techniques, which 81.1 per cent of surveyed students identified as a key factor in their interest.
Nearly 45 per cent believed that the technology used in Chinese animation is on par with international standards.
Recalling the release of “Chang An” and “Deep Sea”, both widely acclaimed Chinese animated films, Huang Ziyi, a student at Wuhan University, felt as if the poems from her textbooks had come to life. “The adaptations based on history were well-executed and felt authentic, bringing the audience closer to the stories.”
In recent years, driven by both technological advancements and a focus on Chinese cultural storytelling, the quality of Chinese animation has improved significantly. According to the survey, 67.78 per cent of university students shared this view.
“For instance, the movie ‘Chang An’ used AI to recreate the texture of Tang Dynasty architecture, providing a visual representation of poetic imagination. Meanwhile, ‘Ne Zha 2’ reinterpreted a classic myth through the lens of modern family dynamics, proving that technology should ultimately serve cultural expression,” said Chen Yanyu, a Jiangxi University of Technology student.
“I believe Chinese animation can carve out its own space in the industry,” Huang remarked. She noted that while Japanese anime often focuses on youthful romance and American animation emphasizes individual heroism, China has a vast pool of untapped storytelling potential. — Xinhua

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

NEARLY 60 per cent of all adults and a third of all children in the world will be overweight or obese by 2050 unless governments take action, a large new study said Tuesday.
The research published in the Lancet medical journal used data from 204 countries to paint a grim picture of what it described as one of the great health challenges of the century.
“The unprecedented global epidemic of overweight and obesity is a profound tragedy and a monumental societal failure,” lead author Emmanuela Gakidou, from the US-based Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), said in a statement.
The number of overweight or obese people worldwide rose from 929 million in 1990 to 2.6 billion in 2021, the study found.
Without a serious change, the researchers estimate that 3.8 billion adults will be overweight or obese in 15 years — — or around
60 per cent of the global adult population in 2050.
The world’s health systems will come under crippling pressure, the researchers warned, with around a quarter of the world’s obese expected to be aged over 65 by that time.
They also predicted a 121-percent increase in obesity among children and adolescents around the world. A third of all obese young people will be living in two regions -- North Africa and the Middle East, and Latin America and the Caribbean -- by 2050, the researchers warned.
But it is not too late to act, said study co-author Jessica Kerr from Murdoch Children’s Research Institute in Australia. “Much stronger political commitment is needed to transform diets within sustainable global food systems,” she said.
That commitment was also needed for strategies “that improve people’s nutrition, physical activity and living environments, whether it’s too much processed food or not enough parks,” Kerr said.

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

The Pyu era, spanning from the 2nd century BCE to the 9th century CE, was a golden age in Myanmar’s history, marked by the rise and prosperity of the Pyu city-states. These early civilizations, flourishing in present-day central Myanmar, were not only pioneers of urban culture but also masterful creators of art, particularly in sculpture. The artistic legacy of the Pyu offers a fascinating glimpse into their religious devotion, societal structure, and aesthetic sensibilities.

Myanmar took great strides to secure international recognition for its three ancient Pyu cities—Halin, Beikthano (Vishnu), and Sriksetra—culminating in their designation as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Among them, Sriksetra stands as the heart of Pyu artistic expression, where a remarkable collection of sculptures and architectural wonders still whisper the stories of a bygone era. With the arrival of Buddhism, artistic production in the Pyu cities flourished, leaving behind an enduring visual culture that reflects their deep spiritual beliefs.

This study delves into the different types of Pyu pagodas, aiming to preserve the historical significance of these ancient structures for future generations. A descriptive approach is used to illustrate the forms of Pyu-era pagodas, while an analytical method is employed to classify their distinctive architectural styles, particularly those found in Sriksetra. The pagodas and stupas of the Pyu period, scattered across the ancient landscape, exhibit diverse designs—cylindrical stupas, round stupas, and temple structures—all of which have been meticulously examined in this research.

By tracing the evolution of Pyu pagodas, we uncover their deep-rooted influence on the architectural marvels of the later Bagan era. These early masterpieces serve as the precursors of Myanmar’s grand pagodas, bridging the artistic heritage of the Pyu civilization with the timeless elegance of Bagan’s temple city. Through this exploration, we reaffirm the enduring significance of Pyu art and architecture, ensuring their legacy continues to inspire and captivate generations to come.

Influences and Themes
The Pyu sculptural tradition was deeply influenced by Indian art, particularly from the Gupta and post-Gupta periods. Buddhism played a central role in Pyu society, which is reflected in their sculptures' predominant themes. Statues of the Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and various deities were commonly created, often displaying characteristics of early Southeast Asian Buddhist art. Hindu influences were also present, as seen in sculptures depicting Vishnu, Shiva, and other Hindu deities.

Materials and Techniques
Pyu sculptors primarily worked with stone, bronze, and terracotta. Stone sculptures, often crafted from sandstone, were used to create large statues and relief carvings found in temples and stupas. Bronze casting was another prominent technique, used to produce intricate Buddha images and ritual objects. Terracotta plaques adorned temple walls, featuring scenes from Jataka tales and other religious motifs.

Iconography and Styles
Pyu sculptures exhibit a blend of indigenous and foreign styles. The Buddha statues from this era are characterized by serene expressions, elongated earlobes, and draped robes, reflecting Indian artistic traditions. Some sculptures display stylistic similarities with the Amaravati and Gupta schools of art, evident in the soft modeling of figures and elegant poses. However, local adaptations can be observed, particularly in facial features and decorative elements, which distinguish Pyu art from its Indian counterparts.

Notable Discoveries
Significant archaeological findings related to Pyu sculpture art have been unearthed in ancient Pyu cities such as Beikthano, Halin, and Sri Ksetra. Bronze Buddha images, intricately carved stone reliefs, and terracotta votive tablets are among the most notable discoveries. These artifacts are now preserved in museums, inclu­ding the National Museum of Myanmar, offering a glimpse into the artistic sophistication of the Pyu civilization.

Legacy and Influence
The artistic legacy of the Pyu era laid the foundation for later Burmese art, particularly in the Pagan (Bagan) period. Many stylistic elements introduced during the Pyu era continued to evolve, shaping the artistic traditions of Myanmar for centuries. The scul­ptures of this ancient civilization not only serve as a testament to their artistic prowess but also provide crucial historical and cultural insights into early Myanmar.

In conclusion, the sculpture art of the Pyu era represents a rich blend of indigenous creativity and external influences. As archaeological research continues, further discoveries may shed even more light on the artistic achievements of this fascinating period in Myanmar's history.

Reference - The Artistic Monuments of Pyu in Ancient Sriksetra by Khaing Khaing Saw
- https://www.metmuseum.org/
- https://www.originalbuddhas .com/

Source: Thawdar Eain (NP News) 

SCIENTISTS have found specialized neurons in the brains of mice that order the animals to stop eating. Though many feeding circuits in the brain are known to play a role in monitoring food intake, scientists also believe that the neurons in those circuits do not make the final decision to cease eating a meal.
The neurons identified by the Columbia scientists, a new element of these circuits, are located in the brainstem, the oldest part of the vertebrate brain. Their discovery could lead to new treatments for obesity.
“These neurons are unlike any other neuron involved in regulating satiation,” says Alexander Nectow, a physician-scientist at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, who led the research with Srikanta Chowdhury, an associate research scientist in the Nectow lab.
“Other neurons in the brain are usually restricted to sensing food put into our mouth, or how food fills the gut, or the nutrition obtained from food. The neurons we found are special in that they seem to integrate all these different pieces of information and more.” The decision to stop eating is a familiar phenomenon. “It happens every time we sit down to eat a meal: At a certain point while we’re eating, we start to feel full, and then we get fuller, and then we get to a point where we think, okay, that’s enough,” Nectow says.
How does the brain know when the body has had enough — and how does it act on that information to stop eating? Other re-
searchers had previously tracked the decision-making cells to the brainstem, but the leads ended there in previous research.
Nectow and Chowdhury deployed new single-cell techniques that make it possible to peer into a region of the brain and discern different types of cells that until now have been difficult to distinguish from one another. “This technique — spatially resolved molecular profiling — allows you to see cells where they are in the brainstem and what their molecular composition looks like,” Nectow says.
During their profiling of a brainstem region known for processing complex signals, the researchers spotted previously unrecognized cells that had similar characteristics to other neurons involved in regulating appetite.
“We said, ‘Oh, this is interesting. What do these neurons do?’ To see how the neurons influenced eating, the researchers engineered the neurons so they could be turned on and off, by the researcher, with light.
When the neurons were activated by the light, the mice ate much smaller meals. The intensity of the activation determined how quickly animals stopped eating.
“Interestingly, these neurons don’t just signal an immediate stop; they help the mice to slow down their eating gradually,” Chowdhury says.
Nectow and Chowdhury also looked at how other eating circuits and hormones affected the neurons. The researchers found that
the neurons were silenced by a hormone that increases appetite and activated by a GLP-1 agonist, a class of drugs now popular for treating obesity and diabetes.
Source : The Global New Light of Myanmar

Kuthodaw Pagoda, nestled in the heart of Mandalay, Myanmar, stands as one of the world's most significant Buddhist monuments. Revered for its spiritual and historical importance, it is home to the world's largest book—a collection of 729 marble slabs meticulously inscribed with the entire Pali Canon of Theravāda Buddhism. This awe-inspiring site serves as a timeless testament to Myanmar’s deep-rooted devotion to Buddhism. With its breathtaking architecture and profound cultural significance, Kuthodaw Pagoda remains a cherished pilgrimage destination, drawing visitors from around the globe.

Historical origins: A King’s vision
In the mid-19th century, King Mindon (reigned 1853–1878) undertook a monumental endeavor to preserve Buddhist teachings in the face of British colonial expansion. Concerned about the potential loss of the Tipitaka—the sacred Pali Canon of Theravāda Buddhism—he commissioned an enduring stone manuscript that would safeguard the scriptures for future generations.

Construction began in 1860, resulting in an extraordinary collection of 729 marble slabs inscribed with the Tipitaka, accompanied by a 730th tablet detailing the project's history. Each slab, measuring 5 feet tall, 3.5 feet wide, and 5 inches thick, would collectively reach a towering height of 340 feet—equivalent to a 28-story building—if stacked.

Scribes meticulously trans­cribed the text from delicate palm-leaf manuscripts, while skilled stonemasons engraved the inscriptions. Originally, the carved letters were filled with gold ink and embellished with rubies and diamonds, turning the site into a radiant sanctuary. However, in the 1880s, British troops looted the pagoda, stripping it of its precious adornments. Despite this, the inscriptions remain remarkably well-preserved today, their clarity maintained by black ink derived from soot and ash, ensuring that King Mindon’s vision endures as a lasting testament to Myanmar’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

Architectural and Spiritual Grandeur
Inspired by Bagan’s iconic Shwezigon Pagoda, the Kuthodaw Pagoda complex is a masterpiece of both architectural and spiritual significance. Each of the 729 marble tablets is enshrined in an individual white shrine (kyauksa gu), meticulously arranged in concentric enclosures around the central stupa. Towering above the site, the gilded Maha Lawka Marazein stupa serves as the spiritual heart of the complex, radiating serenity and devotion.

Inscription Process
The task of inscribing the Tipitaka onto marble slabs was a monumental feat, requiring years of meticulous effort. Buddhist scholars and monks painstakingly transcribed the sacred scriptures, ensuring absolute precision in every detail. Each stone tablet, standing approximately 1.5 meters (5 feet) tall and 13 centimeters (5 inches) thick, was originally adorned with gold lettering, enhancing its divine presence. Though much of the gilding has faded over time, the inscriptions remain a remarkable testament to Myanmar’s enduring dedication to preserving Buddhist teachings.

The World's Largest Book
Kuthodaw Pagoda holds the prestigious title of the World’s Largest Book, not only for its profound content but also for its sheer scale. Comprising 1,460 pages—each marble slab inscribed on both sides—the collection preserves over 8,000 teachings of the Buddha. While modern literary compilations such as One Piece (21,540 pages) or World-2023 ESN Publications (100,100 pages) may surpass it in page count, the Kuthodaw inscriptions remain unparalleled in physical size, historical significance, and cultural weight.

Preservation Through Adversity
Throughout its history, Kuthodaw Pagoda has faced numerous challenges, particularly during British colonial rule and subsequent conflicts. Many of its original gold-inscribed letters were looted or eroded over time. However, dedicated restoration efforts have helped preserve the sacred inscriptions, ensuring their survival for future generations. Today, the pagoda stands as a protected cultural and religious heritage site, recognized by UNESCO for its historical and spiritual significance.

A Living Legacy
Kuthodaw Pagoda continues to draw thousands of visitors each year, including pilgrims, scholars, and tourists who come to admire its unpar­alleled leg­acy. Ongoing restoration and conser­vation efforts aim to safeguard this ex­t­raordinary monument, ensuring that its teachings, artistry, and spiritual ess­ence remain intact for generations to come.

Cultural Legacy and Modern Relevance
Kuthodaw Pagoda is more than just an ancient relic—it is a living symbol of Myanmar’s Buddhist identity and spiritual devotion. Pilgrims and visitors alike circumambulate the golden stupa, offering flowers and prayers in reverence. The site also reflects the broader legacy of King Mindon, whose vision shaped Mandalay’s Royal Palace and Atumashi Monastery. Despite suffering from colonial plunder and the natural wear of time, dedicated restoration efforts since the 1890s have preserved its spiritual and cultural essence, ensuring its significance endures.

A Testament to Endurance
The stone scriptures of Kuthodaw Pagoda transcend their status as a record-­breaking marvel; they are a testament to Myanmar’s resilience, where artistry, faith, and history converge into an ever­lasting monument. As one visitor obser­ved, "The fragrance of star flowers and the whispers of ancient teachings offer not just enlig­htenment but a profound conne­ction to the past."

For scholars, devotees, and curious travelers alike, Kuthodaw Pagoda rema­ins an open chapter in humanity’s quest for preservation and meaning. As the World’s Largest Book, it stands as a sym­bol of knowledge, faith, and cultural heritage—an enduring beacon of inspir­ation that continues to draw admiration from people around the world.

Source: Thawdar Eain (NP News) 

RESEARCHERS have conducted one of the largest eye studies in the world to reveal new insights into retinal thickness, highlighting its potential in the early detection of diseases like type 2 diabetes, dementia and multiple sclerosis. 

The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute (WEHI) led study used cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology to analyse over 50,000 eyes and produced maps of the retina in unprecedented detail to better understand how retinal differences link to various diseases. 

The retina is part of the central nervous system, which also comprises the brain and spinal cord. Many diseases are linked to degeneration or disruption of this critical system, including neurodegenerative conditions such as dementia and metabolic disorders like diabetes. 

Sported by AI, the research has created the most detailed maps of the retina ever produced. 

WEHI researchers have used these maps to link retinal thinning to a range of diseases as well as identifying new genetic factors that influence retinal thickness. 

The findings could pave the way for routine eyecare imaging as a disease screening tool. Unlocking a window into the brain. 

Lead researcher, WEHI’s Dr Vicki Jackson, said the findings broaden the horizons for using retinal imaging as a doorway into the central nervous system, to help man age disease. 

“We’ve shown that retinal imaging can act as a window to the brain, by detecting associations with neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis and many other conditions,” said Dr Jackson, a statistician and gene expert. 

“Our maps’ fine-scale measurements reveal critical new details about connections between retinal thinning and a range of common conditions.” 

The study also identified new genetic factors that influence retinal thickness, which are likely to play a role in the growth and development of a person’s retina. __ANI

KEY HIGHLIGHTS:

• Researchers conducted one of the largest eye studies to reveal how retinal thickness can aid in early disease detection, including type 2 diabetes, dementia, and multiple sclerosis. 

• Led by the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute (WEHI), the study used AI technology to create detailed retina maps, linking retinal thinning to various diseases. 

• The findings show that retinal imaging could serve as a diagnostic tool for neurological and metabolic disorders, offering a window into the brain. 

• Additionally, new genetic factors influencing retinal thickness were identified, further enhancing its potential as a disease biomarker.

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

Thanks to the centuries-long shared border and close historical ties, Myanmar and India share numerous cultural and traditional similarities. The connection between Myanmar meditation practices and Indian yoga stems from their shared roots in ancient Indian spiritual traditions, both emphasizing self-discipline, mindfulness, and inner peace. Both practices are deeply rooted in similar philosophical and spiritual frameworks that originated in the Indian subcontinent and subsequently spread throughout parts of Asia, including Myanmar.

Meditation has long been an integral part of Myanmar's cultural and spiritual heritage. Deeply rooted in Theravada Buddhism, meditation offers numerous mental, physical, and emotional benefits, carrying centuries of profound historical significance.

Yoga, originating in ancient India over 5,000 years ago, is deeply intertwined with Indian philosophy, spirituality, and culture. In today's fast-paced world, our modern lifestyle and approach to healing often lead to an accumulation of micro-assaults on our immune systems without adequate time for our bodies to recover. This is where the ancient yet simple practices of yoga can be invaluable in boosting immunity and promoting a healthier life.

Shared Origins in Philosophy
Indian Roots: Both yoga and meditation practices in Myanmar share roots in ancient Indian spiritual traditions, notably Hinduism and Buddhism. Yoga evolved as a system for self-realization during the Vedic period, while meditation practices gained prominence with the rise of Buddhism.

Buddhism as a Bridge: Meditation in Myanmar is deeply influenced by Theravada Buddhism, which originated in India and subsequently spread to Southeast Asia. Buddha himself emphasized mindfulness and meditation, principles that resonate deeply with the meditative aspects of yoga.

Both yoga and Myanmar medita­tion emphasize cultivating mindfulness and deep inner awareness. In yoga, mindfulness is developed through postures, breath control, and meditation, fostering a connection between the body and mind. Similarly, Myanmar meditation practices, such as Vipassana (insight meditation), center on observing the present moment with clarity and understanding the true nature of reality.

Both practices share the ultimate goal of transcending worldly distractions, deepening self-awareness, and attaining inner peace and liberation.

Benefits
Mental Clarity and Focus: Meditation cultivates mindfulness, allowing practitioners to remain present and focused. This heightened awareness enhances decision-making and reduces mental clutter.

Stress Reduction: Regular meditation calms the mind and reduces stress by activating the body's relaxation response. This is particularly valuable in today's fast-paced world.

Emotional Resilience: Medi­tation fosters emotional balance, helping individuals manage negative emotions such as anger, anxiety, and fear. Over time, practitioners experience greater patience and compassion.

Physical Health: Scientific studies demonstrate that meditation can lower blood pressure, improve sleep quality, and boost the immune system. It also promotes overall well-being by mitigating the impact of chronic stress.
Spiritual Growth: For many in Myanmar, meditation is a path to spiritual awakening and liberation (Nivana). It deepens understanding of the impermanent nature of life and cultivates inner peace.

Yoga
Yoga, as a mind-body intervent­ion, has been globally utilized to combat lifestyle-related diseases where stress is believed to play a significant role. By calming the mind and bringing stability and balance to vital energies, yoga helps modulate the immune response appropriately. Studies have shown that yoga can improve immunity, even during influenza epidemics.

Rooted in Indian traditions and culture, yoga is a system of holistic living that emphasizes the development of one's inherent power in a balanced manner. Today, it is widely practiced as an integral part of a healthy lifestyle. Yoga's global popularity stems from its spiritual values, therapeutic credentials, its role in disease prevention, its promotion of health, and its effectiveness in managing lifestyle-related disorders.

Ethical Principles and Spiritual Goals
Yogic Philosophy: The eightfold path of yoga, emphasizing Strength, Awareness, and Flexibility, posits that regular yoga practice can lead to increased muscle and bone strength, improved sleep, better stress management and resilience, a strengthened immune system, and enhanced brain health.

Buddhist Teachings: Myanmar meditation practices are grounded in the Eightfold Path taught by the Buddha, emphasizing right mindfulness, right concentration, and right effort, prin­ciples that align closely with yogic ideals.

Practical Techniques
Both traditions incorporate techniques to quiet the mind and access deeper states of meditation. In yoga, this is achieved through cultivating a state of abiding calm, while in Myanmar meditation, this is often done through techniques like mindfulness of breathing. The practice of focusing on the breath is central to both traditions, serving as a crucial tool for calming the mind and developing concentration.

Spiritual Liberation
Both yoga and meditation ultimately aim for liberation. In yoga, the goal is freedom from the cycle of birth and death, often described as union with the divine. In meditation, the goal is the cessation of suffering and the attainment of enlightenment. These goals reflect a shared vision of transcending the limitations of human existence and achieving a higher state of consciousness.

Modern Interconnections
With globalization, yoga and meditation have become increasingly intertwined. Myanmar meditation masters like Mahasi Sayadaw and Ledi Sayadaw have popularized vipassana meditation worldwide, often integrated into yoga retreats. Indian yoga gurus and Buddhist meditation teachers share mutual respect for each other's trad­itions, recognizing their complementary benefits for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

Buddhism, a significant influence on Myanmar meditation practices, also shaped aspects of yoga, particularly its meditative and ethical components. As Buddhism spread from India to Myanmar, it carried forward techniques of mindfulness and concentration that complement yoga.

Conclusion
In essence, both yoga and Myan­mar meditation serve as profound paths to cultivating mindfulness, inner awareness, and overall well-being. Rooted in ethical principles and spiritual wisdom, these practices promote mental clarity, emotional resilience, and physical health while guiding practitioners toward a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. Through structured techniques such as breath control, postures, and meditative focus, yoga and Myanmar meditation foster inner peace, balance, and self-discipline. As holistic disciplines, they not only help individuals navigate modern challenges with greater ease but also encourage a journey toward spiritual growth and enlightenment. By integrating these ancient traditions into daily life, practitioners can experience a harmonious connection between mind, body, and spirit, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and meaningful existence.

References:
• Teachings of Venerable Mahasi Sayadaw
•Teachings of Venerable Ledi Sayadaw
•Embassy of India, Yangon, Myanmar
• Practitioners of the Vipassana Group

Source: Thawdar Eain (NP News)