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Prāṇāyāma is the practice of breath control in yoga.
Updated November 16, 2018.Breathing is something we do on a daily basis. The body, in a living state, breathes involuntarily whether we are awake, sleeping, or actively exercising. Breathing is living. It is a vital function of life. In yoga, we refer to this as pranayama. Prana is a Sanskrit word that means life force and ayama means extending or stretching. Thus, the word “pranayama” translates to the control of life force. It is also known as the extension of breath. Every cell in our bodies needs oxygen to function properly. So it’s no surprise that research shows that a regular practice of controlled breathing can decrease the effects of stress on the body and increase overall physical and mental health.Ever notice how soothing a simple sigh can be at the end of a long day? There are a variety of breathing techniques that are known to reduce stress, aid in digestion, improve sleep, and cool you down. Here are instructions on four pranayama exercises worth practicing and the most beneficial times to do them.
Yoga breathing exercises, also known as pranayama, are an important part of a developing yoga practice. Pranayama is one of the Eight Limbs of Yoga referenced by The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, which means that it was considered an integral step on the path to enlightenment.
Pranayama is the practice of breath control for the sake of enlightenment, purification, and great old-fashioned comfort. There is nothing like laughing in a breathing break to clean the mind and calm your body. Reach for these very simple but powerful practices whenever you have to clean out the cobwebs and inspire internal stillness.
Doctors have often prescribed meditation and other stress-reduction techniques as possible treatments for depression and anxiety
Learn how yogic breathing helps manage and reduce stress and anxiety. Know more about the benefits of practicing pranayama.
The following 10 breathing exercises are designed to specifically move the breath, either to balance aspects of the body or deliver heightened awareness to the mind.
Pranayama is an ancient form of breathing that can have many modern day health benefits. Multiple pranayama techniques exist that may help.
Breath is the tool we use to work with the life force within us. When you work on breath, you are working with life force itself, whether you practice yoga or not.
