Pranayama Yoga

'Pranayama' is the fourth stage in Pathanjali's eight stage Yoga discipline. Two Sanskrit words are combined in the word 'Pranayama' - Prana and Ayama. 'Prana' means life or life force. 'Ayama' means development or control. Therefore Pranayama is the development and control of life force. It is a form of breathing exercise, very important in yoga. It goes along with the asanas or exercise.

Breath is the life force that sustains life. Nobody can survive more than a few minutes without air. When the breath stops, life ends. The Forefathers of Yoga developed a special system- 'Pranayama' to increase, develop and control this life force. Normal breathing use only a fraction of our potential respiratory capacity. Pranayama helps to control this life force in a superior and extra ordinary way to reap maximum benefits.

There are various types of Pranayama. Some of the popular forms are Ujjayee, Shitali, Viloma, Kapalabhati, Anuloma, Suryabhedana, Bhastrika etc. There are variations in performing different Pranayamas. Some of them can be done in a sitting position while others in a standing line or sitting position. Some of the Pranayama are difficult and complicated to perform while others are easy.

Pranayama can be mastered only gradually. It may take months or even years before the practitioner mind becomes receptive to the regulated flow of breath and he experiences the full benefits of pranayama. Proper practice of pranayama can control almost any disease but improper practice may give rise toall sorts of respiratory ailments. So one should take care to acquire control over his breath gradually.

The practice of Pranayama is meant to keep the body in good health while meeting its needs. The body cannot control whether or not it breathes, but it can control how it breathes and controlling that determines overall health. Pranayama yoga attains the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide which helps to purify the body.

Medical studies have shown that Pranayama has been linked to reduction of stress, stress related disorders and the relief of the symptoms of asthma in those who practice it. Practitioners report the development of strong minds and the ability to make sound judgment and even extends life.

This form of yoga is usually practiced by those who are experienced practitioners. It is believed that people new to yoga can actually do harm to themselves by practicing Pranayama improperly or without guidance. However, it is a practice that can be learned by anyone and be practiced in a variety of positions and settings.

Not only does it balance and improve breathing, it also improves overall health which is the reason anyone can participate.

There are several other forms of yoga that focus on mental, spiritual and physical stability. The most commonly practiced forms are those focusing on physical fitness.

However, practicing more than one form contributes to the development of them all. Breathing is essential to practicing them all and expanding mental, spiritual and physical horizons.

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