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Yoga breathing, or Pranayama, is the science of Prana (vital energy) which is the source of all life in all living beings in this universe. It consists of series of breathing exercises especially intended to meet the body's needs and keep it in vibrant health.
Other than for increasing vital reserves in the body, pranayamas are mainly practiced for stilling the mind and thought process – as the prana and thoughts are no different. According to Yogis, we can control the thoughts by the breath, and breathing is a tool to harmonize the body, mind and consciousness.
Mechanics of Breathing:
In our respiration process, we breathe in and inhale oxygen into our body, going through our body systems in a form of energy to charge our different body parts. Then we exhale carbon dioxide and take away all toxic wastes from our body. But our life is full of stress and minds are mad house of non-stop thoughts that we don’t breathe properly. Eventually our breath becomes fast and shallow - thereby using only a fraction of our lung capacity.
Thus the lack of oxygen and not being to able throw the carbon dioxide may lead to all the health problems. Heart diseases, sleep disorders, and fatigue are some of the effects of oxygen starvation and due to lack of prana, mind becomes like a restless monkey – non-stop thoughts complicating our life.
We can enhance the oxygen intake and also exhale carbon dioxide fully by practicing deep and systematic breathing through Pranayama, which can energize the body with fresh prana. Liveliness, Calmness, alertness of mind, concentration, and glow of the skin are some benefits of Pranayama.
Benefits of Pranayama
Breathing is a normal part of our life, though we fail to pay attention to it. It is a voluntary function of the body that we perform even without concentrating on it. Why then do we have to learn yoga breathing? Here are some reasons why Pranayama is important: |
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Pranayama teaches us the proper way to breathe. We became used to breathing from our chest, using only a fraction of the lungs, not knowing that this unhealthy and unnatural way of inhaling may lead to several complications. With yoga breathing, we increase the capacity of our lungs, bringing more oxygen supply to the body to function well. We learn how to breathe slowly and deeply - the right way. |
| 2. |
Pranayama reduces the toxins and body wastes from within our body - thereby preventing the diseases at the roots. |
| 3. |
Pranayama helps in digestion. With the proper way of breathing, one's metabolism and health condition will start to improve and constipation is relieved. |
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Pranayama develops our concentration and focus of mind. It can counteract the stress and relax the body much deeper than sleeping. |
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Pranayama offers a better self-control. Through concentration, one can better handle temper and reactions. Mind can function clearly, avoiding arguments and wrong decisions. Moreover, self-control also involves control over one's physical body. |
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Pranayama leads us on a spiritual journey with a relaxed body and mind. |
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