Expansion of the life force through conscious regulation of the breath.
Prana is the vital life force, and Ayama means extension or expansion. Pranayama is the yogic practice of focusing on breath. In Sanskrit, prana means "vital life force," and yama means to gain control. In yoga, the breath is associated with the prana, thus, pranayama is a means to elevate the prana shakti, or life energies.
Through specific techniques involving inhalation (Puraka), retention (Kumbhaka), and exhalation (Rechaka), practitioners can alter their physiological and psychological states, calming the nervous system, sharpening the mind, and awakening dormant energy.
Alternate Nostril Breathing for balancing the hemispheres of the brain.
Bellows Breath for energizing the body and clearing the mind.
Victorious Breath that builds internal heat during practice.
Skull Shining Breath, a cleansing technique and pranayama.
