PRANAYAMA - YOGA BREATH

Pranayama, or breathing, is a basic principle of yoga. Yogic breathing brings more oxygen to the blood and the brain, which improves health, relaxes the body and concentrates the mind.

There are two main reasons that breathing plays such a key role in yoga. Firstly, breathing is essential for life, it is how we keep our organs functioning. Secondly, breathing aids the removal of toxins and waste products from our bodies, promoting good health.

While those who don’t practice yoga tend to place emphasis on inhalation, yogic breathing begins with a slow and complete exhalation, clearing the lungs ready for a slow and complete inhalation. Just as a cup must be emptied before it can be filled again, so the respiratory system has to be emptied before it can be re-filled with clean, fresh oxygen.

Generally people’s breathing is too fast and shallow. As a result, bodies and minds can have too little oxygen, leading to, amongst other things, reduced vitality, a poor immune system, and premature ageing. In yoga, Pranayama – the science of breath control – is more important than yoga postures (Asana).

Pranayama has numerous health benefits, here are just a few:

• Improved nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves
• More oxygen to the brain reduces the chance of depression and mental tiredness
• Rejuvenation of the skin
• Stimulation of blood circulation to the vital organs
• Less strain put on the heart, leading to reduced blood pressure and healthier heart
• Aids weight control by burning up fat more efficiently, or providing extra oxygen to starving tissues and glands
• Relaxation of the mind and body, reducing stress and anxiety