BASIC YOGA: PRANAYAMA

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PRANAYAMA

YOGA beginners mostly get enticed by the workout and stretching poses (asanas) of YOGA they have seen in TV or magazine. In contrast to this, PRANAYAMA is a practise that involves control and extension of breath, which is life force of every living being. PRANAYAMA is a Sanskrit word, which means “Extension of Prana( breath)”. The word PRANA means vital energy for survival, basically breath, and YAMA means to extend.

Initially, the concept of using the energy of PRANA (breath) seems to be obscure to be relevant or important. But PRANAYAMA is meant to take care of bodily health and improve metal stability through energy of one’s breath.

There are various forms of PRANAYAM, but before starting let’s get to know the very basics of why and how of this asana.

Essence of PRANAYAMA:

Remember & practice following things before getting started:

1.       Every YOGA pose does not require rigorous work out & this asana is one of them.

2.       This asana deals rigorously only with the breath. But before going deep into the asana, you should know your breath pattern and learn to control the breath.

3.       PRANAYAMA should be practised with care and advance level PRANAYAMA should always be done under guidance.

4.       People with low blood pressure & pregnant ladies may need to avoid this asana.

       

5.       Practise Sava asana (corpse pose) before starting PRANAYAMA. For this, lie down on yoga mat with the support on spine and legs stretched out. Relax for some time & let your mind take a break. Then observe your breath. Notice the quality of your breath, just notice. Do not obstruct or judge your breath. After some time try to smoothen and guide your breath to get a rhythmic breath.

This practice may be carried out a few more times.

6.       Once you are able to guide your breath and notice a smoother inhaling and exhaling you are ready to go to the next step i.e. PRANAYAMA. This practise can be done in seated position afterwards.