Pranayama is one
of the basic form of breathing exercises of yoga system which teaches the art
of extending the breath in many different ways. One should remember that when
we are practicing pranayama the breath should be carefully inhaled, exhaled
& retained. It teaches us about to change the depth, rate and pattern of
breathing.
“Breathing is
the physical part of thinking & Thinking is the psychological part of
breathing.” – Ayurveda.
Pranayama is a
word which comes from the Sanskrit language which literally translates into “extension
of the prana or breath”. ‘prana’ means life force and it can be called as life
force or vital energy that penetrates the body. Prana is the link chain between
the consciousness and mind. The physical display of ‘prana’ is breath & ‘ayama’
means to range or draw out the breath.
“When
the Breath Wanders, the mind is unsteady, but when the Breath is still, is the
mind still.” – Hatha Yoga Pradipika.
Breathing is
essential for our survival as it is the only way by which we can able to send
oxygen inside our body and into all our organs. We can be live for several
months without eating food and for few days without water, however but we can
only live existing a few minutes without breathing. It is only possible to get
positive effect on our actions and thoughts that when we learn the breathing
techniques. The rhythms of our breath get changes by our every thought. When we
are in stressed mood breathing becomes irregular and interrupted and when we
are in happy mood our breathing becomes rhythmic. Mastering the art of
breathing is a vital step towards self survival & self healing.
Perfect time
to practice:
Pranayama or
breathing exercise is a great way to start your day as good. Early morning is
the very best & perfect time to practice pranayama, especially outside
where you can able to find & inhale fresh air. Many Yoga gurus suggests
their yoga trainees to practice breathing exercises on an empty stomach.
Benefits of Pranayama
Exercises
1.
These
exercises are the best techniques which are beneficial in treating a extent of
stress related disorders.
2.
Autonomic
functions are easily improved by these techniques
3.
Asthma
symptoms are get relieved with the help of this Exercises.
4.
Oxidative
stress signs in the body get reduced.
5.
Practice
daily to get strong will power, steady mind and sound judgement.
6.
By
Regular exercising one can extend their life and enhance perception of life.
7.
Number
of studies shows us that there is a change in the cardio respiratory system
including lowering the blood pressure by pranayama.
8.
There
are certain pranayama’s which are very useful for weight loss.
How to get
ready for pranayama?
To start this
exercise sit facing to east or north in a cross legged comfortable position on
a yoga mat. Make sure that your head, neck and chest should be in a straight
line and keep spine stretched. It should not be performed after eating, sexual
activity or bathing without at least one hour gap.
Who Should not
practice pranayama?
It is recommended
to do these exercises with proper care & advanced pranayama should be
practiced under teacher’s guidance.
1.
It is
not recommended during pregnancy and menstruation.
2.
If
anybody suffering with any form of heart condition, especially for those who
experienced the heart attack in a recently. People who are the low blood
pressure patients then they should do under the supervision of the yoga teacher
or ayurvedic doctor.
3.
If
you have fever, pneumonia or bronchitis then please avoid it.
4. Strictly not recommended for anybody going through psychological conditions like sadness, trauma, anxiety, grief, anger, depressions or suicidal feelings.
