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Regulation of Breath

Classification > Regulation of Breath

Fourth limb: Regulation of Breath (Pranayama)

Pranayama is the control and regulation of breathing. Pranayama has a soothening and balancing effect on the nervous system and consists of different breathing exercises.

Just as there are several types of asanas, there are different types of Pranayama. While Ujjayi and Viloma Pranayama are performed with open nostrils, in anuloma, Pratiloma and Nadi Shodhana Pranayama you use your fingers to regulate breath. The many kinds of Pranayamas have a different effect on your physiology and the state of your mind.

Tasmin Sati Svasa Prasvasayorgativicchedah Pranayamah

The regulation of breath or the control of Prana is the stoppage of inhalation and exhalation, which follows after securing that steadiness of posture or asana.

'Svasa' means inspiratory breath and 'Prasvasa' the expiratory breath. Breath is the external manifestation of Prana, the vital force. Breath is like electricity, it is gross Prana. Breath is Sthula, gross. Prana is Sukshma, subtle. By exercising control over this breathing you learn to control the subtle Prana inside.

There is considerable amount of knowledge about the practice of pranayamas. One of many important elements in the practice of Pranayma is the Bandhas. The Bandhas are locks helps the Prajna (conscious awareness) to judiciously control the incoming Prana, let it flow rhythmically and later on distribute it uniformly. Two of the important Bandhas are Mula Bandha (root-lock) and the Jalandhara Bandha (chin-lock).

Other important factors is the correct breathing and the positioning with a straight spine. It is advisable to consult a Yoga teacher for correct instructions on the practice of Pranayama.