The practice of Pranayama is a fundamental part for those who follow the path of Yoga, an integral part of the physical practice, the asanas and meditation, which is often difficult to define, as it is not enough just to sit still.
From the fluctuation to stillness, stillness to silence, and silence to the sight of the soul is the journey of yoga
Patanjali
Freeing the mind is not always simple, we are led to make decisions continuously. So often it happens to see the right thing at the wrong time, the wrong thing at the right time. The practice of Pranayama frees the mind, bringing clarity, freshness and giving the opportunity to see the right thing at the right time.
What is Pranayama
Defined as the science of breath, several techniques are used to discipline and control it. Prana means energy. Cosmic, individual, sexual energy… That energy present in all individuals and in the universe on all levels. Prana is the Life Force Energy. The ancient Yoga texts explain that when the breath is still, Prana is still, so is the mind.
All of us we breathe, the first breath comes with our birth and the last exhalation with death. We do about twenty thousand breaths a day without even noticing it. Pranayama leads us to conscious breathing and will produce the right energy that will then be perfectly distributed throughout the body, moving horizontally, vertically and circularly.
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Pranayama is the conscious awareness of breath.
The breath is long and calm, divided by inhalation, exhalation and retention. Usually you inhale and exhale through the nose, the mouth is rarely used, unless instructed by the teacher. My teacher has always told me that “the mouth is made for eating”.
The path to conscious breath control is very long, but the benefits are many and can be felt after 21 days of practice. It would take ten minutes a day to increase one’s inner peace and well-being.
Pranayama benefits
It relaxes the mind, improves cardiovascular health as increases the blood circulation and oxygen capacity of the blood. Treats depression and reduces risk of hypertension. Pranayama it is also said to be a great way to detoxification, with the correct exhalation the body will get rid of all those toxins accumulated. It improves concentration and this is not all, cleans the nasal passages, improve the elasticity of the lungs and will tonify the skin. After all, Pranayama practice is said to be a fountain of youth.
Guidelines for Pranayama
It is recommended early in the morning before the sunrise with an empty stomach. Practice in a quiet space where you can’t be disturbed, better outdoor with fresh air. Is advised not in the sun or while there is wind. Do not practice with air conditioning or fan or in a to warm place. Practice every day at the same time, wear loose clothes, sit comfortably and be patient with yourself. If you practice Pranayama in the evening the best time is after the sunset, if you feel very tired from the day, lie down is shavasana first.
It provides a vital bridge between the body and the mind. By controlling the breath, one can control the mind.
Pranayama is described in Patanjali’s yoga sutras, is the fourth of the eight limbs of yoga (Ashtanga yoga) known as part of the inner search. The training of Pranayama requires a deep knowledge of the asanas and must be performed under the supervision of a Guru or an experienced teacher.
