Pranayama

Introduction to Pranayama

• ‘Pranayama’ literally means ‘to expend Prana’ (vital force).
• The Sanskrit word pranayama comes from the roots prana (Universal energy), and yama (to control).
• In the 49^th Sutra of Sadhanapada of Patanjali Yogasutra, the great Rishi Patanjali has defined Pranayama as a process in which respiration is interrupted and Prana, that is, the vital force is controlled and regulated.
• The literal definition of pranayama then is "the control of (or holding onto) the vital force (prana)," most aptly via the breath -- which makes pranayama the practice of breath control. According to some, Prana means air. But this is a more than air.
• Prana, in fact, is the vital power which is the force motivating every element of the earth and which the origin of the force is of though.
• Pranayama is a conscious attempt to stabilize the flows of prana and apana (two distinct forms of energy whose dynamic movements are intimately linked to the breath), and bring them into a state of balance or harmonious interaction.
• There is a deep affinity between Prana and mental force, between mental force and intellect, between intellect and soul, and between soul and God.
• Thus the purpose of Pranayama is to inspire, motivate, regulate and balance the vital force (Prana) pervading in the body.
• This is the reason why Pranayama is considered one of the efficacious means of attaining Yoga.