Pranayama

What does Pranayama mean?  Pranayama, derived from the Sanskrit words "Prana" and "Ayama," refers to the extension and control of breath. "Prana" encompasses breath, respiration, life, vitality, wind, energy, or strength, while "Ayama" means length, expansion, stretching, or restraint. Together, Pranayama represents the deliberate regulation of breath and its associated energies.

What is Pranayama? Pranayama is the conscious prolongation of inhalation, retention and exhalation of the breath. Inhalation is the act of receiving the primeval energy in the form of breath, and retention is when the breath is held in order to savour that energy. In exhalation all thoughts and emotions are emptied. The practice of pranayama develops a steady mind, strong will-power and sound judgement.

Why are we practising it?  The sage Patanjali said that concentration and clarity of thought were developed through pranayama, opening the path to deeper relaxation and eventually meditation. Breath is the essence of life and prana is the life force or energy. The art of pranayama seeks to harness this life force. By focusing the mind totally on the breath, blockages in the body’s channels are unlocked, allowing energy to flow freely and connect with the life force.

This understanding of Pranayama is referenced from Light on Pranayama, Light on Yoga, Yoga: The Path to Holistic Health by B.K.S. Iyengar, and Yoga: A Gem for Women by Geeta S. Iyengar.