Pranayama- The Ultimate Life’s Source

Meaning of Pranayama

Pranayama is generally defined as breath control. Although this interpretation may seem correct in view of the practices involved, it does not convey the full-time meaning of the term, The word Prana means ‘Vital Energy’ or ‘Lifeforce’. It is the force which exists in all the things of this world. It is closely related to the air we breathe, it is more subtle then the air we breathe.

Therefore, Pranayama should not be only considered as the breathing exercises aimed at introducing extra oxygen into the lungs. Pranayama utilizes breathing to influence the flow of prana in the Nadis or energy channels of the pranayama Kosha or energy body.

The word Yama means ‘Control’  and use to denote various rules or codes of conduct. However, this is not the word which is joined to prana to form pranayama;  the correct word is Ayama defined as Expansion.

The technique of pranayama provides a method whereby the life force can be activated and regulated in order to go beyond one’s normal boundaries or limitations and attain a higher state of vibratory energy and awareness.

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Aspects of Pranayama:

1. Pooraka or Inhalation
2.  Rechaka or Exhalation
3. Antar Kumbhaka or Internal Breath retention
4. Bahir Kumbhaka or External breathing retention

There are different types of practices of Pranayama involve various techniques which utilize all these four aspects of breathing in Pranayama.

Breathe retention is not suggested in the first stage or for beginners. This is an advanced stage of pranayama which occurs at the high stage of meditation. However, in order to perform breathe retention practices successfully, It is suggested That there must be gradual control over breath and functioning of respiration.

One needs to strengthen their lungs and balance of the nervous system before practicing breathe retention practices.

Gifts of Pranayama

Physical wellness

Lightness in heart

Clear breathing

Being present in the moment

Work for your inner self and outer self

Weight control

Prana control

Creating the purpose of life

If you can produce these sort of results without paying anyone? Shouldn’t you do pranayama every day?

You were born with this magical body, you only need to be conscious enough for what you put yourself through and how to deal with it.

Breath is a way of life, It is the only source of your pranic body. Being conscious enough and being aware of your own breath is a simplest yet powerful way of meditation. Meditation on your own breath is a gateway to go within. Within you will find Happiness without and condition and demand.

Impressive results in greater aliveness, self-expression, and power. The breath is one of the easiest doorways into the capabilities of the human nervous system because it touches every aspect of our being: physical, physiological, psychoemotional, and spiritual.

Some of the very Effective Pranayama:

• Bhastrika Pranayama: Bhastrika means ‘Bellows'(An animal with a deep loud breath as roar). Thus, Bhastrika Pranayama also known as the “Bellows Breath”, as the air is drawn forcefully in and out of the lungs like the bellows of a village blacksmith. The bellows increase the flow of air into the fire, producing more heat. Similarly, Bhastrika pranayama increases the flow of air into the body to produce inner heat at both the physical and subtle levels, Stoking the inner fire of mind and body. Bhastrika Pranayama- Detox Negativity Practice|Benefits|Precautions

• Anulom Vilom: Anulom Vilom pranayama is most important for the purification of Nadi(Breathe) and to balance all the Dosha(Problems) of the body. With both of the nostril, We breathe and release the tension.  To our nostrils, the most powerful force of the world is connected to The Sun and The Moon.  To bring balance to your Thoughts, Hormones, and Desires for this life Anulom Vilom is the most recommended pranayama practices in this world. Anulom Vilom- Way to within Practice|Benefits|Precautions
• Kapalbhati: The Sanskrit word Kapal means ‘Cranium’ or ‘Forehead” and Bhati means ‘Light’ or ‘Perception’ or ‘Knowledge‘. Hence Kapalbhati is a practice which brings a state of light and clarity to our brain. Another name of this practice is Kapalshodhana where ‘Kapal’ has the same meaning and ‘Shodhana’ means ‘To purify’ Kapalbhati- To Purify Practice|Benefits|Precautions
• Ujjayi: The Sanskrit word Ujjayi means ‘Victorious’. The pranayama which gives freedom and bondage. It is also known as psychic breath or ocean breath because of the sound our throat creates while performing this pranayama. It leads to subtle states of mind and is used together with khechari mudra, the tongue lack, in tantric meditation such as manta japa, ajapa japa, and prana vidya. Ujjayi Pranayama- The psychic breath Practice|Benefits|Precautions

 

(Pranayama should be performed under the guidance of a yoga teacher at first. You should tell your medical conditions, history, and discomfort to your guide. After that, you can start this magical path of oneness. Have happy breathing.)

 

Hare Krishna xx

Hare Krishna ❤

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