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Pranayama is an important, yet little
known part of yoga. Its techniques have been practiced for centuries
by students of yoga in remote ashrams, and have been preserved for
us through many generations both in practice and in hand written
books. Until recently, this art and science of yogic breathing was
almost completely unknown to the common man like many other ancient
Indian arts. Those who knew it used to be very reluctant to share
their knowledge and experience with anyone, unless a student proved
by tests that he was ready to receive it.
" Tasmin sati swas praswas yogartivich pranayama"(1)
Tasmin : In this,
Sati : Being,
Swas :
Inhale,
Praswas : Exhale
Gati : Flow
Viccheda :
Cutting-off
Pranayama : Breath control (2)
This having been (accomplished) "Pranayam" which is controle of
inspiration and expiration.
The inspiration of prana-vayu is swas and expiration is
praswas and the cessation of both is characteristic of
Pranayama.
Pranayama, as traditionally conceived, involves much more than
merely breathing for relaxation. Patanjali defines Pranayama as "The
regulation of the incoming and outgoing flow of breath with
retention." It is to be practiced only after perfection in asana is
attained. Pranayama also denotes cosmic power, or the power of
entire universe, which manifests itself as conscious living being in
us through the phenomenon of breathing.
What is Pranayama ?
The
word Pranayama consists of two parts; prana and ayama. Ayama means
stretch, extension, length, breadth, regulation, prolongation,
restraint and control and describes the action of Pranayama. Prana
is energy, when the self-energizing force embraces the body with
extension and expansion and control; it is Pranayama.
Effect of Pranayama on various systems
Nervous system:
Pranayam
maintains normal body functions. It influences higher functions of
the central nervous system (C.N.S.) like perception, planning,
execution of tasks, learning & memory.....
Pranayama & Harmonal Balance :
The glandular activity increased and hormonal profile is balanced
through pranayam . Ujjayi with long and short kumbak effects
adreno-medullary secretions....
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