The Yoga Life: Pranayama at Her Active Life

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The Yoga Life: Pranayama

Posted November 9, 2007 at 09:00 AM by Valerie Cerami

Section: Her Health, Her Motivation, The Yoga Life

Pranayama (Breath control, concept of “vital air” as a life force)

Description

A breath exercise. Literal translations include “suspension of breath” and “regulation of breath”.

Benefits

Treats a wide range of stress related disorders, improves autonomic functions, increases lung capacity, relieves symptoms of asthma, reduces signs of oxidative stress. Practitioners also claim that the practice of pranayama develops a steady mind, strong will power, sound judgement, extends life and enhances perception.

How To

A three step process: take breath inside, retain it, discharge it.

1) inhalation (puraka) stimulates the system and fills the lungs with fresh air; 2) retention (kumbhaka) raises the internal temperature and plays an important part in increasing the absorption of oxygen; 3) exhalation (rechak) causes the diaphragm to return to the original position and air full of toxins and impurities is forced out by the contraction of inter-costal muscles.

My Take (or) Val’s View

We rarely notice our own breathing rhythm – expect during rigorous exercise (out of breath or gasping) – or holding our breath (when underwater or in extreme stress) – or the satisfaction of a full size sigh of relief. Aside from these extreme cases, try to become aware of your more subtle respiration patterns. Focus on your abdomen and chest while breathing deeply – then shallowly. Feel the difference – know the difference – and use it to your benefit…