PRANAYAMA

What is Pranayama?

Your body is like the wick of a candle, and the mind is like the glow all around it. Prana is the vital energy needed by our physical and subtle layers, without which the body would perish. It is the prana or life force in us that nourishes the mind and keeps the body alive. Prana refers to the universal life force and ayama means to regulate or lengthen. Pranayama means working in the dimension of prana.

Understanding prana

Prana creates an aura around the body. It flows through thousands of subtle energy channels called nadis and energy centers called chakras. The quantity and quality of prana and the way it flows through the nadis and chakras determine one’s state of mind.

If the prana level is high and its flow is continuous, smooth, and steady, the mind remains calm, positive, and enthusiastic. However, the lack of knowledge and attention to one’s breath could cause partial blockages in the nadis and chakras. Unfortunately, this leads to a jerky and broken prana flow. As a result, one experiences increased worries, fear, uncertainty, tensions, conflict and other negative qualities. Every problem first generates in the subtle and then surfaces on the physical level. Sickness shows up in your prana (pranic body) much before you get sick physically.

Types of Pranayama & How to do Pranayama

The ancient Indian sages knew that some breathing techniques were simple to practice and brought great relaxation to the body and mind. These breathing techniques can be practiced with ease and at any time of the day on an empty stomach.

Let us know types of Pranayama & how to do pranayama one by one:

1. Bhramari pranayama (bee breath)

Is your mind buzzing with activity? Can’t stop thinking about what someone said about you? Find a quiet corner and try the Bhramari pranayama (bee breath) to apply brakes to the buzzing mind. This breathing technique is a boon for those with hypertension.

2. Kapal Bhati pranayama (skull shining breathing technique)

Among the breathing techniques, KapalBhati (skull shining breathing technique) is considered to be the most important. It is also useful for detoxifying the body and clearing the energy channels.

3. Bhastrika pranayama (bellows breath)

Feeling low on energy? Three rounds of Bhastrika pranayama (bellows breath) will get your energy levels soaring!

4. Nadi Shodhan Pranayama (Alternate Nostril Breathing technique)

Can’t concentrate on the task at hand? Try nine rounds of nadi shodhan pranayama (alternate nostril breathing technique) followed by a short 10-minute meditation. Nadi shodhan pranayama calms and centers the mind by bringing harmony between both the hemispheres of the brain.

The Art of Living Meditation and Breath workshop has the perfect combination of asanas, pranayama, and meditation to enhance your well-being. Experience the benefits now.

Benefits of Pranayama

The regular practice of breathing exercises can completely change the quality of life that one is leading.

Increases and enhances the quantity and quality of prana, thereby increasing our energy levels

Clears blocked nadis and chakras, thereby expanding your aura and heightening the spirit

Makes one energetic, enthusiastic, calmer and positive. Such a state of mind helps us in making better decisions, having mental strength when dealing with adversities and feeling happier

Brings harmony between the body, mind, and spirit, making one physically, mentally and, spiritually strong

It brings clarity to the mind and good health to the body