pranayama - The Science of Breathing

Yoga

oi-Staff

By Super Admin

Thursday, June 23, 2011, 16:20

Shivagama
We all breath and we know how to breathe. It is something that occurs to us automatically, spontaneously and naturally. We are breathing even when we are not aware of it. Breathing is important for two reasons. It is the only means to supply our bodies and its various organs with the supply of oxygen which is vital for our survival. The second function of breathing is that it is one means to get rid of waste products and toxins from the body.

Yoga breathing, or pranayama, is the science of breath control. It consists of series of exercises especially intended to meet the body's needs and keep it in vibrant health. Thus pranayama, the science of breathing is the science of life; by all means.

pranayama teaches us the proper way to breathe. We became used to breathing from our chest, using only a fraction of the lungs, not knowing that this unhealthy and unnatural way of inhaling may lead to several complications. With yoga breathing, we increase the capacity of our lungs, bringing more oxygen supply to the body to function well. We learn how to breathe slowly and deeply - the right way.

When, where and how to practice

Time of practice: The best time to practice pranayama is during the early morning. The body is fresh and the mind has very few irritants. However, if this is not a good time, just after sunset tranquilizing pranayamas may be performed before sleep. Try to practice regularly at the same time and place each day.

Place of Practice: Practice in a quiet, clean and pleasant room which is well ventilated, but not draughty. Generally, avoid practicing in direct sunlight, as the body will become over- heated, except at dawn when the soft rays of the early morning sun are beneficial. Practicing in a draught or wind, in air-conditioning or under a fan may upset the body temperature and cause mills.

Clothes: Loose, comfortable clothing made of natural fibers should be worn during the practice. The body may be covered with a sheet or blanket when it is cold, or to keep insects away.

Types of pranayama

1. Nadi Shodhana pranayama ( Nadi Shuddhi pranayama)

Nadi is a tubular organ for the passage of prana, or energy carrying cosmic, vital, seminal, and other energies, as well as sensation, intelligence and consciousness in the causal, subtle, and physical bodies. Shodhana means purifying, or cleansing. The term nadi shodhana means the purification of the nerves. This pranayama is also referred to as 'alternate nose breathing'.

How to do

Sit in a comfortable cross legged position, spine straight, shoulders down, and relaxed. Head centered between the shoulders, chin tipped slightly downward, eyes closed. Use the thumb, and fourth finger (ring finger) of your right hand. The two middle fingers can rest gently on your forehead. To avoid strain in the neck, and shoulders, keep them closed into the palm.

Use your thumb to close off the right nostril, as you breath into the left. Initially start off the inhalation to the count of five. Should you experience dizziness, reduce the count. As soon as you reach the top of the inhalation, immediately close the left nostril with your right ring finger, removing your thumb from the right nostril at the same time, and begin a slow, rhythmic, effortless exhalation through this nostril. Do this to the count of five. Inhale through the right nostril to the count of five. Close the right nostril with your right thumb. Exhale through the left nostril to the count of five.

Benefits

• Calms the mind, promoting peace and tranquility.
• Creates balance, harmony and rhythm in the entire system.
• Improves the respiratory system.
• Strengthens the nervous system.
• Purifies the body by oxygenating the blood supply.

However, pranayama should not be forced and done without proper preparation, or it may lead to nervous breakdowns. It is part of a process in yoga. Breath control is a spiritual practice of cleansing the mind and body which should be done appropriately and with proper guidance and preparation.