Pranayama is formed by the union of ‘Prana’ and ‘ayama’. ‘Prana’ refers to the universal life force and ‘ayama’ means to regulate or lengthen. Prana is breath or vital energy needed by our physical and subtle layers, without which the body would perish. Hence, it can be stated that Prana keeps us alive. Therefore, Pranayama is the control of breath. One can control the rhythms of pranic energy with pranayama and achieve a healthy body and mind.
Pranayama has been practiced in India for thousands of years with yoga masters passing this knowledge to their disciples. The ancient masters incorporated pranayama in the various rituals, and the tradition still continues with priests practicing the yoga form at birth, marriage, death and other auspicious ceremonies. However, it is important to understand the philosophy and purpose of practicing Yoga to realise why one must incorporate Pranayama in their daily lives.
Pranayama forms an important component of Yogic practice. It is one of the crucial practices of Hatha Yoga, Patanjali Yoga Sutra and Tantra Yoga. The main purpose of Pranayama is to gain control over the Autonomous Nervous System and influence the mental functions through it.
So what does Pranayama involve? Slow controlled, deep inspiration (Puraka), retention of breath (Kumbhaka) and near complete expiration with awareness (Rechaka). This helps the flow of Prana or vital energy to all parts of the body. Regular practice of Pranayama can modulate the sensitivity of chemo-receptors and also helps calm the mind.
The eight techniques of Pranayama mentioned in most Hatha Yoga Texts are as follows:
Suryabhedan
Ujjayi
Sheetali
Sheetkari
Bhramari
Bhastrika
Moorcha
Plavani
It is said that every person must practice Nadishodhan, Suryabhedan, Ujayi, Sheetali, Bhramari and Bhastrika Pranayama. But before practicing Pranayama one must follow the essentials stated below:-
External environment: Any place that is well-ventilated and free from noise, insects and flies should be preferred to practice Pranayama
Right season to begin the practice of Pranayama: One should begin practicing Pranayama in the spring season, i.e. March-April, and autumn season, i.e. Sept-Oct. A person who has been practicing pranayama must ensure regular practice throughout
Right time: Morning is best suited to practice Pranayama
Seat or Asana: The seat should be soft, thick and comfortable
Asana: Asanas like padamasana, siddhasana, vajrasana and sukhasana are considered the most suitable postures to practice Pranayama