Meaning, types and benefits of Pranayama

MEANING, PROCEDURE, PRECAUTIONS AND BENEFITS

Prana means ‘life force’ and ayama means ‘to control’. Pranayama helps in controlling all the functions of breathing namely-inspiration, exhalation, and retention. These are breathing practices to breath in, to breath out and to be relaxed. It means these breathing exercises promote energy, awaken the mind and clean the body.

Pranayama forms an important component of Yogic Practice. Pranayama is a science which helps to regularize vital energies through the regulation of breathing. The main purpose of Pranayama is to gain control over the Autonomous Nervous System and mental functions.

Pranayama practice involves slow deep inhalation (Puraka), holding breath (Kumbhaka) and near complete exhalation (Rechaka).

The flow of Prana or vital energy to all the vital parts of the body is regulated by these breath-regulating practices. Regular practice of Pranayama can modulate the sensitivity of chemo-receptors and can also make the mind calm and quiet.

These are the Pranayama mentioned in the Hatha Yoga Texts.

(a)         Anulom- vilom

(b)        Suryabhedana,

(c)         Ujjayi,

(d)         Bharmari,

(c)         Sheetkari,

(d)         Sheetali,

Nadishodhan or Anulom-vilom, Suryabhedan, Ujjayi, Sheetli, Bhramari, Pranayama are important pranayamas to be practiced.

Before doing the above pranayamas, one must follow the essentials for practicing them as stated below:

1.    External environment: - Any place that is well- ventilated and free from noise, insects and files should be preferred to practice pranayamas.

 2.    Right season to begin the practice of Pranayama:- One should start to practice Pranayama in spring season i.e. March-April and autumn season i.e. Sept- Oct. One who is already in practice should continue its practice.

3.    Right time: - Morning is the best suited time to practice Pranayamas.

4.   Seat or Asana: - The seat should be soft, thick and comfortable.

5.    Asana: - Asanas such as Padamasana, Siddhasana, Vajrasana and Sukhasana are considered the most suitable postures for the practice of pranayama.

Benefits:

1. 1. 1. improves blood circulation.

      2. Keep away the heart-related problems.

      3. Provide relaxation for body and mind.

      4. Improves your concentration.

      5. It relieves Stress, Depression, and Hypertension.

      6. Cure asthma, headache, migraine, neurological problems, depression and gastric problems.

      7. Improves blood circulation.

      8. Releases anxiety.

      9. Improves the function of reproductive organs.

      10. Release stress and depression.

      11. Builds up self confidence