What is Pranayama? and its types
What is Pranayama?
Pranayama is the name for the yoga practice when the focus is on the breath. In Sanskrit, prana is referred to as the "vital life energy," and Yama is the activity of taking charge. Because prana and breath are related in yoga, pranayama is a method for improving the prana shakti or life energies.
Pranayama literally translates as "breath control." The term "prana" refers to the vital energy or breath of the body. The word "Ayama" is a subtle representation of prana, often known as life force or pranic energy. Therefore, pranayama is the "Control of Breath."
By regulating the pranic energy cycles through pranayama, one can achieve a healthy body and mind. Patanjali defines pranayama as a means of achieving higher states of awareness in his book of yoga sutras. In order to achieve Samadhi, Buddha also emphasizes the practice of holding one's breath.
Anulom-Vilom
Anulom-vilom is the most effective pranayama since it has both powerful subtle and physical effects on the body. The medulla oblongata of the brain contains centers for inhalation and exhalation, which control the physical function of breathing by ventilating the lungs and establishing a rhythm in the nerve impulses that control breathing.
PRANAYAMA TYPES
1. Peaceful breathing
2. Breathing Quickly, Deeply
3. Pranayama and Tribandha
4. Pranayama Nadi Shuddhi or Anuloma-Viloma (Alternate nostril breathing - I)
5. Viloma and Anuloma (Alternate Nostril Breathing - II)
6. Suryan Bhedan Breathing (Right Nostril Breathing)
7. Ujjayi Breathing
8. Bhramari Breathing
9. Hatha yoga breathwork
10.Pranayamas performed by Surya Bhedan, Bhasrika, Ujjayi, Shitali, Sitkari, Bhramari, Murchha, and Plavini

Comments
Post a Comment