Pranayama or Yoga Breathing is the foundation of your yoga practice. In Pranayama, the whole body is affected and involved in the activity.
The human body is made up of billions of cells that make up our organs, skin, hair, nails, and blood. Then there are the organs, some of which together form a system. For example, the human body comprises the circulatory system, the digestive system, and the endocrine system.
All these systems depend on each other for their proper functioning. What all these systems have is what, in the practice of yoga, is known as prana. This is the bio-energy, the vital energy or vital force, and it is contained in the breath. Simply put, prana represents the pranic energy responsible for life or life force, and “ayama” means control. So Pranayama is “Control of breath.”
Pranayama goes hand in hand with the Asanas. These two Yogic Principles together are considered as the highest form of purification and self-discipline, covering both mind and body.
Preparation for Pranayama:
You have to see Pranayama as a real exercise, it’s not just breathing through breathing. We have to prepare ourselves for Pranayama:
– Sit with your back straight and close your eyes. Try to relax.
– Look at the way you breathe. Don’t influence your breathing, just watch. Do you have trouble breathing normally? Do you have a fast breath?
– Breathing is part of a regular Yoga session, although you can also train only Pranayama. If you do it as part of a yoga session, try it before or after the asanas, because that physical fatigue affects the mind.
-Do not use incense or other elements that may distract you. Essences, in particular, are harmful because they can irritate the airways.
– Try not to play any music so you can hear the sound of your breath.
Pranayama exercises can benefit the mind and body in many ways and on many levels, whether physical, emotional, mental, or spiritual. Remember to take it slowly and to build on your experience to further develop your breath control. As you practice and get better about your breath, your breath can guide your practice.
This is the secret that will help you handle every situation in life. Think of this as your new superpower!