Knowing All about Pranayama

Knowing all about pranayama or breathing is of utmost significance since this is the most important process in the body. It is this breathing that governs each and every activity of every cell in the body. Thus, the healthy functioning of all the organs, central nervous system and the brain is under the control of this very vital but involuntary process.

Pranayama - What Is Yoga Breathing?

Yogic breathing exercises are called as pranayama. Breathing usually performs two functions. Firstly, it oxygenates blood. Secondly, it controls the energy flow into the body, and thereby, exercises influence over the mind of the individual. Commonly, it is seen that breathing is not proper or complete. Thus right amount of oxygen that is required by the body is not available. Correct technique of breathing is taught through yogic breathing or pranayama which leads to increased strength and vitality. Mind becomes clearer and emotions steadier through the regular practice of pranayama. Knowing all about pranayama would furnish you with the key for a healthier and fulfilling life.

Pranayama - Traditional Breathing Techniques

Prana or breath control can be done using different techniques developed by the ancient yogis. The most commonly used pranayama or breathing techniques are ujjayi, nadi shodhana, shitali, viloma and kapalabhati. Different variations are seen while performing the pranayamas. Some are done in the sitting position while there are others that are done in standing line. The pranayamas come in various levels of difficulties and the complicated ones are best left to the experts.

Pranayama can be mastered gradually and the benefits would be evident only after months or years. The regulated flow of breath and its reception is not very easy and hence time and continuous practice is mandatory. Another very important aspect is that it should be practiced correctly. Incorrect and improper practice can give rise to respiratory diseases but correct practice can relieve and control any disease. Thus control over breath should be attained gradually over time and then the method mastered in order to reap maximum benefits.

Pranayama - Stages, Kinds And The Process Of Breathing

Breathing basically has four stages of inhalation, pause, exhalation and a pause again before the restarting of the cycle. This cycle of respiration is manipulated to achieve different benefits. The pauses can be prolonged in many different ways for health benefits. Breathing is of many types like regular and irregular breathing, forced and effortless breathing, deep and shallow breathing, jerky and smooth breathing, etc. Thus, it is evident that breathing is a very complicated and intricate process. It is a chemical as well as a mechanical process.

Breathing consists of three processes - respiration, oxygenation, and regulation. The breathing process is affected by both extrinsic as well as intrinsic factors. Outside factors can be voluntary as well as involuntary. Holding breath while talking, singing, etc. are voluntary while breathing irregularities during emotions like fear, anger, etc. are completely involuntary. Thus, the knowledge of these factors is vital in the practice of pranayama and yoga since it aims at recognizing these involuntary factors and developing healthier habits after overcoming them.