Take a Deep Breath and Let the Energy of the Universe flow through you!
If you have ever taken a yoga class, then chances are that you would have heard the yoga instructor, asking you to concentrate on your breath flow during the asanas. Yoga is as much about your breathing as about the various poses. And for a good reason. Your breath is not only a vital physiological function that is essential for your living, but it’s also the cornerstone of your health and well-being.
Give a thought to your breath. Read on to know how Pranayama or Deep Breathing is the key to controlling your overall health and state of being.
The Origin of the Word
The word Pranayama is a Sanskrit word that is derived from “Prana” and “Ayama.” According to yogis, “Prana” is the universal life force that is omnipresent. No living being is an exception to this energy. It’s also considered as the unifying force that binds all life in the entire universe. “Ayama” is the method of conscious controlling of the life force. It’s the technique of stimulating and guiding this energy within our body.
Why should you practice Conscious Breathing?
If you’re wondering how you could be doing something as fundamental as breathing wrong, then you’re not alone. Before, you could find the answer to this question; let’s first spend a few minutes understanding the role of our breath in our body.
Most of us are unaware that due to shallow breathing or mindless breathing, we deprive our body of the “Prana” or life energy. Generally, we utilise only a fraction of the capacity of our lungs while breathing. This inadequate oxygen supply causes the build-up of toxins in our body and leads to improper waste disposal from our system. Thus, your body’s functioning is slowed down, and you experience various negative impacts.
The Role of Adequate Oxygen in your bloodstream
- Rebuilds cells and tissues, supplying energy for all vital functions of your body
- Stimulates the proper functioning of endocrine glands
- Provides energy for the heart, brain, nerves and other vital organs
- Distribution of energy throughout your body
Pranayama – The Energy Booster for your Body
You can increase oxygen levels in your bloodstream up to five times when you practice Pranayama. This means carbon dioxide is flushed away from your system five times more efficiently. The primary purpose of Pranayama or Deep Breathing is to provide your body with oxygen and to flush out harmful carbon dioxide and other accumulated toxins.
The Amazing Benefits of Practising Pranayama Regularly
When done correctly and consistently, Pranayama offers life-changing benefits. Some of the major results of Pranayama are:
- It’s the best way to cure and control various stress and anxiety related disorders
- Increases the life span
- It helps you control your emotions and to reign in negative thoughts
- Reduces the visible signs of oxidative stress in your body, thereby you look younger
- Helpful in relieving asthma
- It’s useful in developing strong will power, a steady mind and guides you in making sound judgements in your daily life
- It causes visible change in the functioning of your cardio respiratory system controlling hypertension and lowering blood pressure
- When combined with yoga asanas it aids in weight loss and helps you become fit, lean and healthy
Which is the Ideal Time to Practice Pranayama?
Any deep breathing exercise like the Pranayama is an excellent way to begin your day. Early morning is the perfect time to do Pranayama. Try doing it outside so that you breathe in invigorating fresh air. Also, it’s highly beneficial when done on an empty stomach.
Types of Pranayama (Yoga Breathing Techniques)
The yogis of ancient India have listed different types of breathing techniques to address various issues. They are:
- Rhythmic and Deep Breathing – To harmonise the body with the breath
- Agnisar – For the proper functioning of the digestive organs like the intestines and abdomen
- Surya Bhedi – To raise the body temperature during winter
- Chandra Bhedi – To cool down the body during summer
- Alom Vilom – For a healthy heart
- Bhastrika – For treating chest diseases like the common cold and Asthma
- Kapalabhati – To boost memory
- Ujjayi – To treat cold, cough, asthma and other nose and ear diseases
- Bhramri Pranayama – To increase blood circulation and for proper functioning of the thyroid glands
- Shitali and Shitkari Pranayama – To achieve a cooling effect and to improve your complexion
Precautions to be followed before starting Pranayama
Before you begin, there are a few guidelines to help you achieve optimal results. A healthy and active person can start with their preferred type of Pranayama. For those who lead a sedentary lifestyle, do not rush into doing, start gradually to help you ease into the process.
It’s advisable to get started with the help of a certified yoga teacher. However, if you don’t have access to a yogi, you can start slowly with alom vilom. Practice it for two – three weeks before moving on to other advanced Pranayama like Bhastrika or the Kapalabhati.
Do not rush through the repetitions. If you’re hard pressed for time on a particular day, there is no harm in reducing the repetitions. Remember there is no fixed number. Make each repetition count.
How to get ready for Pranayama?
Sit on a yoga mat facing the east or north. Sit comfortably in a cross-legged position. No slouching. Ensure that your head, neck, and chest are straight and the spine is stretched. Do not practice Pranayama within one hour of bathing, eating or any sexual activity.
Pranayama – The Key to your Wellbeing
Humans can survive for days and even weeks without consuming water and food. However, they cannot survive without breathing even for a few minutes. So, it’s essential to get this primary function right, and this is where Pranayama is a lifesaver.
Once, you begin with Pranayama, it impacts your thoughts and actions in a positive way. You are happy and confident, when your breath is rhythmic and stressed when it’s irregular. Mastering the art of your breathing is crucial for your overall well-being and self-healing.
Control your Inner Peace and Radiate Energy with Pranayama!
