What is Yoga Breathing or Pranayama? Prana refers to the universal life force and ayama means to regulate or lengthen. Prana is the vital energy needed by our physical and subtle layers without which the body would perish. It is what keeps us alive. Pranayama is the control of prana through the breath. These techniques rely on breathing through the nostrils. Prana flows through thousands of subtle energy channels called nadis and energy centers called chakras. The quantity and quality of prana and the way it flows through the nadis and chakras determines ones state of mind. If the Prana level is high and its flow is continuous smooth and steady the mind remains calm positive and enthusiastic. However due to lack of knowledge and attention to ones breath the nadis and chakras in the average person may be partially or fully blocked leading to jerky and broken flow. As a result one experiences increased worries fear uncertainty tensions conflict and other negative qualities. The ancient sages of India realized these breathing techniques. Some common pranayamas include Bhastrika Kapalabhati and Nadi shodan pranayama. Regular practice increases and enhances the quantity and quality of prana clears blocked nadis and chakras and results in the practitioner feeling energetic enthusiastic and positive. Practiced correctly under the right supervision prananyama brings harmony between the body mind and spirit making one physically mentally and spiritually strong. A NOTE OF WARNING: Since the Pranayamas deal with the subtle force it is important to practice them as taught inyoga classes. Do not experiment with them. Yoga practice helps develop the body and mind bringing a lot of health benefits yet is not a substitute for medicine. It is important to learn and practice yoga techniques under the supervision of a trained Sri Sri Yoga teacher. In case of any medical condition practice yoga techniques after consulting a doctor and a Sri Sri Yoga teacher. Find a Sri Sri Yoga course at an Art of Living Center near you. Do you need information on courses or share feedback? Write to us at info@srisriyoga.in. from Keep Calm Do Yoga https://keepcalmdoyoga.tumblr.com/post/171898449550