PRANAYAMA

 

Pranayama is one of the Eight Limbs of Yoga, as defined by the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. The Pranayama is derived from two sanskrit words 'Prana' and 'ayama' where 'prana' means Energy 'ayama' means Elongation. So, the word meaning of pranayama is elongation of pranic energy.

Prana is the vital force which pervades the whole cosmos. Prana is more subtle than air and can be defined as the energy essence that is within everything in the universe. Prana is the principle of development and sustenance both of the nervous and cellular tissues of the body and the mind.

The energy in the body is Prana. By controlling the motion of the lungs or respiratory organs, we can control the Prana that is vibrating inside. By control of Prana, the mind can be easily controlled, because the mind is fastened to the Prana, like the bird to the string. Just as the bird that is tied to a post by a string, after flying here and there, finds its resting place in the post, so also this mind-bird after running hither and thither, in various sensual objects, finds its resting place during deep sleep in the Prana.

 

BENEFITS OF PRANAYAMA

 

• The body becomes lean, strong and healthy. Too much fat is reduced. There is lustre in the face. Eyes sparkle like a diamond. The practitioner becomes very handsome. Voice becomes sweet and melodious. The inner Anahata sounds are distinctly heard.

• Increase concentration, creativity and cognitive brain functions.

• Improvement in the rate of breathing.

• Reduction in the heart rate as well as the wear and tear of the heart.

• Curing problems that are related to the digestive system .

• Enhancing the functioning of several organs, which include the kidneys, pancreas, intestines, diaphragm, lungs and the heart.