20/06/2021
Pranayama is a Sanskrit word which consists of prana and ayama. Prana means self-energizing life forces and ayama means extension. Pranayama may be defined as the expansion and control of prana through various yogic techniques. In a simple way, we can say that pranayama is a combination of systematic exhalation and inhalation.Pranayama is not a simple breathing exercise yet it is a scientific breathing process where control over prana is achieved. Pranayama is the connecting link between physical (asanas) and mental (meditation) yogic practicesPranayama is one of the important vital components of Yoga that directly or indirectly affects the proper functioning of different systems of the body. If you practice pranayama regularly, it shows beneficial impacts upon respiratory system, circulatory system, digestive system, and endocrine system. Pranayama ensures more oxygen to the lungs and good for hearts too. Pranayama tones up kidney and controls the functions of the nervous system. Kumbhaka or retention of breath helps the supply of oxygen or exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide thus facilitates better work of lungs and helps the brain to work more efficiently. Pranayama affects the autonomic nervous system which controls heart rate, glandular secretions, respiration, digestion, and blood pressure.
