Pranayama is the fourth limb of the eight limbs (stages) mentioned in Patanjali’s Yogsutra (book of yoga) and controls the movement of breath from the lungs. Yogis believe that by controlling the movement of breath, they control the prana, life force (vitality), which permeates all living beings. Life force (prana) is controlled by the suspended (ayama). This theory, at least, In the Yoga Sutras pranayama is described as simply “Controlling traffic exhalation and inhalation of breath (Sutras II, 48).

In plain language this means is that by controlling the three stages of breathing – inhalation, retention and exhalation of breath – the yogi tries to attract a higher level of consciousness within easy reach. Calm, controlled breathing is likely to lead to a form relatively free of antagonistic ideas, which can muddy the waters of any meditation. Yoga breathing techniques  encourages us to breathe deeper and slower and thus improve our physical health, and it is this aspect that will be of most interest to Western supporters.

Categories of Pranayama

Like in most cases with yoga there is no shortage of Pranayama practices, there are over hundred mentioned in various yogic and Sanskrit texts. All these practices can broadly be divided into:

1)  Shakti Pranayamas

Which are higher practices designed to activate/arouse the kundalini force, the ‘concentrated’ prana of the Universe. The final step towards enlightenment some say.

2)  Samyama Pranayamas

One of  the most powerful methods to reach higher states of  consciousness, it is described as one of the best energy enhancement ways in yoga. Samyama promotes  concentration, aids in meditation and  helps increase control of mind over body.

3) Yoga Pranayama

This is the favorite pranayama of all the yoga teachers all across the world. The most commonly practiced pranayama in yoga classes, these include various kind of breathing exercises. These exercises help to clean the respiratory system, organs and blood streams they strengthen the nervous system and purify the mind. This pranayama founds the basic stepping stone on which you lay the foundation of all other higher pranayamas that you may do in future.

Guideline for Pranayama

Always face north or east. These directions are called Dev Moola or Gods place in ancient Sanskrit scriptures and are considered source of great energies. they are directions of water and light and wherever you have water and light, there’s LIFE.

IGWS (It goes without saying) that the place where you perform yoga should be clean, airy, pleasant and peaceful. You can practice outdoors if weather permits.

For beginners in yoga, you can  sit cross-legged, maintaining the back straight . Experienced people prefer Vajra asana or Lotus pose. Make sure your posture is comfortable so that you can sit on it for a long time.

Mid day is considered to be the best time to practice yoga.

Its not a good idea to practice pranayama empty stomach. you can practice 1 hour after food for proper digestion

Perform all breathing through nose only, can be difficult initially.

Like all exercises warmup is an essential component of pranayama