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Pranayama is the yogic practice of focusing on breath. In Sanskrit, prana means “vital life force”, and yama means to gain control. In yoga, breath is associated with the prana, thus, pranayama is a means to elevate the prana shakti, or life energies. It is described in Hindu texts like the Bhagavad Gita and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. Later in Hatha yoga texts, it meant the complete suspension of breathing.
According to the scholar-practitioner of yoga Theos Bernard, the ultimate aim of pranayama is the suspension of breathing (kevala kumbhaka), “causing the mind to swoon”.[17] Paramahansa Yogananda writes, “The real meaning according to Patanjali, the founder of Yoga philosophy, is the gradual cessation of breathing, the discontinuance of inhalation and exhalation”.[18]
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Sitkari Pranayam or Sheetkari pranayama is also called the hissing breath. While performing it the sound of “see” or “seet” is made during inhalation. Kari is a Sanskrit word that means “that which produces” [1]. Thus, this practice is named so because it produces the see sound. Sitkari pranayama has a strong effect on cooling … Read more
In the previous article, we have talked about the benefits of Bhastrika Pranayama and its mention in the scripture. In this post, we will tackle the correct method to perform this practice. It is vital to first prepare the body before bhastrika pranayama can be performed exhaustively. Bhastrika is a strong practice and requires a … Read more
In Sanskrit, the word Bhastrika means “bellows” (to emit a loud deep sound). Therefore, bhastrika pranayama is also called “bellows breath” as air is drawn forcefully in and out of the lungs making this deep loud sound. A blacksmith used a device called bellows to blow air into the furnace to increase the fire and … Read more
Kapalbhati belongs to one of the six shatkarma practices. In Sanskrit, the word Kapal means “cranium” or “forehead.” And the word Bhati means “light” and also “knowledge.” Therefore, kapalbhati pranayama is a practice that brings sharpness, illumination, and clarity to the prefrontal cortex region of the brain. Mention in Scriptures Translation: “Perform exhalation and inhalation … Read more
The Sanskrit word Bhramari means “bee.” Therefore, Bhramari Pranayama is pranayama where the sounds produced while performing it are similar to one made by a black bee. It is amazing pranayama to relax the mind and improve sleep quality. Let’s learn about it in more depth. What is Bhramari Pranayama? (Mention in Scriptures) In Hatha … Read more