Breath is life. We can live for days without food or water, but deprive us of breath and we die in minutes. Pranayama – the science of breath control – consists of series of exercises especially intended to meet these needs and keep the body in vibrant health.This breath is recognized all over the world under different names. It is known as “Chi” in China, “spirit” in the Christian world and “Ki” in Japan. Breathing or respiration is the most vital process that provides the body the necessary oxygen. A deep and rhythmic breathing helps in removing various toxins from the body. When we inhale, the air is sucked in the lungs for gaseous exchange with the blood, and during exhaling; the waste gases from the blood are forced out of the body.The nadis are nerves channels or tubes in the astral body through which prana follows. Pranayama are designed to purify nadis, for when they are blocked prana cannot flow freely and poor health results. Of all the nadis, the most important is the sushumna, whose counterpart in the physical body is the spinal cord. On the either side are two other nadis called pingala and Ida.FOUR ASPECTS OF PRANAYAMAIn the pranayama practices there are four important aspects of breathing.1. Pooraka (Inhalation).2. Rechaka exhalations.3. Antar Kumbahaka (internal breath retention).4. Bahir Kumnhaka (external breath retention).Pranayama practices establish a healthy body by removing blockages in the pranayama Kosha.GUDIELINES FOR PRANAYAMAA. Always breathe through the nose and not the mouth unless specifically advised.B. The best time to practice pranayama is during the early morning when body is fresh or after sunset.C. Practice in a quiet, clean and pleasant room.D. The retention of breath – internal or external should be practiced very care fully.E. A comfortable, sustainable meditation posture is necessary to enable efficient breathing and body steadiness during the practice.F. A balance diet of protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals is suitable for pranayama practices.There are numerous types of pranayama, we describe here only those which are the most useful and communally practiced.1. Kapalbhati pranayama,2. Nadi shoudhana pranayama,3. sheetali pranayama4. sheet Kari pranayama5. Bhramari pranayama6. Ujjayia pranayama7. Bhastrika pranayama8. Moorchha pranayama9. surya bheda pranayama.BENEFITS OF PRANAYAMAThe pranayama are useful for detoxifying the body. Digestive system is toned up. Pranayama are very soothing to nerves and nadis and makes the mind calm. Pranayama helps to over come insomnia and sleeplessness. pranayama relieves stress, anger anxiety and depression. Pranayama reduces obesity and improves blood circulation.. pranayama clears any energy blockages in the body and balance the ida and pingala naids. Leading to a balanced personality. pranayama balances and strengthens the nervous system, inducing peace, tranquility and one pointed ness of mind in preparation for meditation.CAUTION: Do not hold the breath beyond your capacity. There are certain pranayama one should not practices in winter and summer, pranayama should not be practiced during illness. It is advisable for pranayama practitioners to consult a yoga guru or teacher before using any pranayama for the therapeutic purposes.To know more pls log on to www.yogagurusuneelsingh.com
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