This document provides an overview of 99 yoga pranayama techniques described by Yogamaharishi Dr. Swami Gitananda Giri Guru Maharaj. It begins by establishing pranayama as a science of controlling the vital life force (prana). The techniques are divided into 3 categories - yoga pranayamas for physical health, samayana pranayamas for introspection/meditation, and shakti pranayamas for powerful prana arousal. Many specific techniques are then briefly described, ranging from basic breathing exercises to more advanced practices for controlling inner energies. The document aims to present the full scope of known pranayama techniques while acknowledging debates around interpretations.
This document provides an overview and summary of the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, a classic yoga text written by Yogi Svatmarama.
1) It begins with an introduction to Hatha yoga, discussing its origins and concepts like the mind, knowledge, aims of life, health, and afflictions. It describes Hatha yoga as a science revealed by Shiva to help overcome suffering.
2) The document then summarizes the contents and structure of the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, which contains 390 verses divided into four chapters covering topics like asanas, pranayama, mudras, bandhas, and samadhi.
3) It emphasizes that H
Yogacharya Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani's talk on "Power of Pranayama" for SBV Yoga Fest 2016 organised by CYTER at Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, Pondicherry, India.
www.sbvu.ac.in/ahs/yoga
This practice is a one pointed concentration on the form and Nada or sound of the sacred Pranava AUM, known as the Mantra of all Mantras. This can be done from any of the sitting postures but make sure that your back is erect. It is best to do this after performing a few rounds of conscious deep breathing so that the mind is in a calm state.
Pranava Dhyana harmonizes the body, emotions and mind. It is an important part of the Rishiculture Ashtanga Yoga tradition as taught by Yogamaharishi Dr Swami Gitananda Giri. In this practice emphasis is first placed on making the sounds AAA, UUU and MMM separately and then in combination. This is followed by the performance of the practice mentally without the audible sound.
Sit in Vajrasana and place the Chin Mudra on your thighs. Breathe in deeply into your lower chest area 2-3-4-5-6. Breathe out with the sound Aaaaa…….
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Now concentrate on the sound Aaaaa mentally and perform the same practice three times without the audible sound.
Curl your fingers inward to form the Chinmaya Mudra and place it on your thighs. Breathe deeply into your mid chest region 2-3-4-5-6. Breathe out with the sound Ooooo …….
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Now concentrate on the sound Ooooo… mentally and perform the same practice three times without the audible sound.
Perform the Adhi Mudra by clenching your fists with your thumb in the centre and place the Mudra on your thighs. Breathe deeply into your upper chest and clavicular regions 2-3-4-5-6. Now, exhale with the sound Mmmm…….
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Now concentrate on the sound mentally and perform the same practice three times without the audible sound.
To perform the fourth part of the practice that unites the three earlier parts perform Adhi Mudra and then place it with the knuckles of both hands touching in front of the navel. This is now known as the Brahma Mudra.
Take a deep breath into the low ……..mid ……..and upper chest ……..regions. Now let the breath out with the sounds of Aaaaa…Ooo… Mmmm ….
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----------
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----------------
Now concentrate on the sound Aaaaa------Ooooo------Mmmm and perform the same practice three times without the audible sound.
A performance of three to nine rounds of the Pranava Dharana when done daily helps to relax the Body-Emotion-Mind complex and provides complete healing through the production of healing vibrations at all levels of our existence. This is the cornerstone of Yogic breath therapy and can produce health and wellbeing for all.
When the concentrative aspect of the practice is taken to its peak, a state of mediation or Pranava Dhyana can ensue.
The document discusses concepts from Patanjali Yoga Sutra related to yoga and meditation. It defines yoga as the annihilation of modifications of the mind. It describes the five modifications of the mind as right knowledge, wrong knowledge, fancy, sleep, and memory. It explains various techniques for controlling the mind, including constant practice and detachment, controlling the breath, meditation, and cultivating virtues like friendliness. The ultimate goal is gaining mastery over all objects of meditation.
The document discusses the muscular system and its correlation with yoga. It begins by describing the different types of muscles in the body - skeletal, smooth, and cardiac muscles - and their characteristics and functions. It then explains how yoga practices like asanas, pranayama, mudras, and bandhas impact the muscular system. Regular yoga practice improves muscle tone, flexibility, strength and endurance. It also discusses how emotions can influence muscle tone and the importance of muscle tone for yoga. Overall, the document outlines how yoga is beneficial for conditioning, relaxing, and rejuvenating the various muscle groups in the body.
This document provides an overview of pranayama, or conscious breathing techniques. It defines pranayama as the conscious regulation of breath and discusses how it can increase vital energy in the body. The document then describes different breathing techniques like abdominal breathing, diaphragmatic breathing, and alternate nostril breathing. It explains how to perform each technique and discusses benefits like improved health, focus, and connection to inner wisdom. Tools for practice like bandhas and drishtis are also outlined to enhance the breathing exercises.
Yogacharya Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani's presentation on Yoga Chikitsa at the Rishikesh International Yoga festival 2018 organised by Govt of Uttarakhand.
Classical Hatha Yoga is an ancient system that utilizes asanas, pranayama, bandhas, mudras, and other techniques to purify the physical body and awaken kundalini energy. It aims to achieve spiritual enlightenment through practices that work from the gross physical body to the subtle energetic body. Some of the core components of Classical Hatha Yoga include the six cleansing techniques known as shatkarmas, important asanas like siddhasana and padmasana, pranayama or breath control techniques, the three main bandhas or energy locks, hand gestures known as mudras, and awakening the psychic energy channels called nadis and chakras to realize the
This document provides an overview and summary of the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, a classic yoga text written by Yogi Svatmarama.
1) It begins with an introduction to Hatha yoga, discussing its origins and concepts like the mind, knowledge, aims of life, health, and afflictions. It describes Hatha yoga as a science revealed by Shiva to help overcome suffering.
2) The document then summarizes the contents and structure of the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, which contains 390 verses divided into four chapters covering topics like asanas, pranayama, mudras, bandhas, and samadhi.
3) It emphasizes that H
Yogacharya Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani's talk on "Power of Pranayama" for SBV Yoga Fest 2016 organised by CYTER at Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, Pondicherry, India.
www.sbvu.ac.in/ahs/yoga
This practice is a one pointed concentration on the form and Nada or sound of the sacred Pranava AUM, known as the Mantra of all Mantras. This can be done from any of the sitting postures but make sure that your back is erect. It is best to do this after performing a few rounds of conscious deep breathing so that the mind is in a calm state.
Pranava Dhyana harmonizes the body, emotions and mind. It is an important part of the Rishiculture Ashtanga Yoga tradition as taught by Yogamaharishi Dr Swami Gitananda Giri. In this practice emphasis is first placed on making the sounds AAA, UUU and MMM separately and then in combination. This is followed by the performance of the practice mentally without the audible sound.
Sit in Vajrasana and place the Chin Mudra on your thighs. Breathe in deeply into your lower chest area 2-3-4-5-6. Breathe out with the sound Aaaaa…….
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Now concentrate on the sound Aaaaa mentally and perform the same practice three times without the audible sound.
Curl your fingers inward to form the Chinmaya Mudra and place it on your thighs. Breathe deeply into your mid chest region 2-3-4-5-6. Breathe out with the sound Ooooo …….
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Now concentrate on the sound Ooooo… mentally and perform the same practice three times without the audible sound.
Perform the Adhi Mudra by clenching your fists with your thumb in the centre and place the Mudra on your thighs. Breathe deeply into your upper chest and clavicular regions 2-3-4-5-6. Now, exhale with the sound Mmmm…….
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----
Now concentrate on the sound mentally and perform the same practice three times without the audible sound.
To perform the fourth part of the practice that unites the three earlier parts perform Adhi Mudra and then place it with the knuckles of both hands touching in front of the navel. This is now known as the Brahma Mudra.
Take a deep breath into the low ……..mid ……..and upper chest ……..regions. Now let the breath out with the sounds of Aaaaa…Ooo… Mmmm ….
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----------
Breathe in 2-3-4-5-6.
Breathe out ----------------
Now concentrate on the sound Aaaaa------Ooooo------Mmmm and perform the same practice three times without the audible sound.
A performance of three to nine rounds of the Pranava Dharana when done daily helps to relax the Body-Emotion-Mind complex and provides complete healing through the production of healing vibrations at all levels of our existence. This is the cornerstone of Yogic breath therapy and can produce health and wellbeing for all.
When the concentrative aspect of the practice is taken to its peak, a state of mediation or Pranava Dhyana can ensue.
The document discusses concepts from Patanjali Yoga Sutra related to yoga and meditation. It defines yoga as the annihilation of modifications of the mind. It describes the five modifications of the mind as right knowledge, wrong knowledge, fancy, sleep, and memory. It explains various techniques for controlling the mind, including constant practice and detachment, controlling the breath, meditation, and cultivating virtues like friendliness. The ultimate goal is gaining mastery over all objects of meditation.
The document discusses the muscular system and its correlation with yoga. It begins by describing the different types of muscles in the body - skeletal, smooth, and cardiac muscles - and their characteristics and functions. It then explains how yoga practices like asanas, pranayama, mudras, and bandhas impact the muscular system. Regular yoga practice improves muscle tone, flexibility, strength and endurance. It also discusses how emotions can influence muscle tone and the importance of muscle tone for yoga. Overall, the document outlines how yoga is beneficial for conditioning, relaxing, and rejuvenating the various muscle groups in the body.
This document provides an overview of pranayama, or conscious breathing techniques. It defines pranayama as the conscious regulation of breath and discusses how it can increase vital energy in the body. The document then describes different breathing techniques like abdominal breathing, diaphragmatic breathing, and alternate nostril breathing. It explains how to perform each technique and discusses benefits like improved health, focus, and connection to inner wisdom. Tools for practice like bandhas and drishtis are also outlined to enhance the breathing exercises.
Yogacharya Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani's presentation on Yoga Chikitsa at the Rishikesh International Yoga festival 2018 organised by Govt of Uttarakhand.
Classical Hatha Yoga is an ancient system that utilizes asanas, pranayama, bandhas, mudras, and other techniques to purify the physical body and awaken kundalini energy. It aims to achieve spiritual enlightenment through practices that work from the gross physical body to the subtle energetic body. Some of the core components of Classical Hatha Yoga include the six cleansing techniques known as shatkarmas, important asanas like siddhasana and padmasana, pranayama or breath control techniques, the three main bandhas or energy locks, hand gestures known as mudras, and awakening the psychic energy channels called nadis and chakras to realize the
This document discusses the nasal cycle, where one nostril is more open than the other on a cyclical basis due to autonomic nervous system activity. It also discusses how yoga teachings relate the nasal cycle to energy flows through the body and how breathing through each nostril impacts different brain hemispheres and functions. Forced breathing techniques can be used to study and influence the nasal cycle. More research is needed to understand how the nasal cycle relates to the health benefits of certain yoga breathing exercises.
PRANAYAMA: ITS THERAPEUTIC AND SPIRITUAL POTENTIALYeruvaBrothers
This document discusses the therapeutic and spiritual potential of pranayama, or yoga breathing techniques. It describes how pranayama is emphasized in ancient Indian texts as a way to control the life force energy. Several yoga masters throughout history teach that pranayama calms the mind and awakens hidden spiritual energies. When practiced correctly, pranayama can improve overall health, brain function, and emotional well-being by balancing the nervous system and reducing stress and anxiety.
Hatha yoga is a system that integrates physical, mental, emotional and spiritual practices. It aims to bring balance through asanas, pranayama, mudras, bandhas and meditation. Regular practice leads to benefits like optimum health, mental clarity, willpower and inner peace. Key texts include Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Gheranda Samhita, Hatharatnavali and Siva Samhita, which describe practices like asanas, purification techniques, pranayama, mudras and meditation. The goal of Hatha yoga is preparation of the body and mind for higher states of consciousness.
Vibhaga and pranava pranayama of Gitananda Rishictulure Yoga by Dr AnandaYogacharya AB Bhavanani
A presentation on Vibhaga and pranava pranayama of Gitananda Rishiculture Yoga by Yogacharya Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani, Ashram Acharya ICYER at Ananda Ashram, Pondicherry, India.
The document provides an outline for an introduction to yoga workshop including:
- A disclaimer noting participants participate at their own risk.
- An overview of the program including prayers, breathing exercises, warm ups, loosening exercises, and Suryanamaskar (sun salutations).
- Detailed descriptions and benefits of the various breathing exercises, warm ups, and loosening exercises to be taught.
Yogacharya Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani's special session on Yoga and the digestive system for members of the Rishiculture Gitananda Yoga Family.
Disclaimer: Copyrights of images used in the presentation belong to the respective owners and Dr Ananda doesn't claim any IPR on them and has used them only for educational purposes with no malafide intentions.
It is well established that stress weakens our immune system. Scientific research in recent times has showed that the physiological, psychological and biochemical effects of Yoga are of an anti-stress nature. Mechanisms postulated included the restoration of autonomic balance as well as an improvement in restorative, regenerative and rehabilitative capacities of the individual. A healthy inner sense of well being produced by a life of Yoga percolates down through the different levels of our existence from the higher to the lower producing health and wellbeing of a holistic nature.
The document discusses the integrated approach of yoga therapy according to Dr. Shamanthakamani Narendran. It discusses the concepts of health, disease, and the body according to modern science and ancient yogic texts. It explains that stress born illnesses originate from imbalances in the subtle sheaths (kosas) of the body starting from the mental sheath (manomaya kosa) and can manifest physically. Yoga helps reduce stress and bring balance to the kosas through techniques like asanas, pranayama, meditation and kriyas.
The document summarizes the eight classical pranayamas as described in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and other ancient yoga texts. It provides brief descriptions of each of the eight pranayamas - Sitkari, Sitali, Bhastrika, Brahmari, Ujjayi, Surya Bhedana, Murccha, and Plavini. It also discusses classifications of pranayama, the four functions of breath, and the importance of practicing pranayama under the guidance of a guru according to ancient yoga traditions.
The 6th Foundation Day of CYTER, the Centre for Yoga Therapy, Education & Research in Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, Pondicherry was celebrated at Mahatma Gandhi Medical College & Research Institute on Tuesday, 2nd November 2016.
The theme of this year's celebration was "Introducing Yoga in Nursing Education" and was presided over by the Vice Chancellor of SBV, Prof KR Sethuraman in the presence of Prof N Ananthakrishnan, Dean Allied Health Sciences and Prof AR Srinivasan, Registrar SBV.
Prof KR Sethuraman reminded nursing students of their vital role in healthcare as the primary caregivers for patients and stressed the importance of Yoga in their personal and professional life. Prof N Ananthakrishnan, Prof AR Srinivasan, Yogacharini Vijaya from Gitananda Yoga Society of Berlin, Germany and Prof VN Mahalakshmi Vice Principal MGMC&RI offered felicitations.
CYTER's Director Prof Madanmohan welcomed the guests for the celebrations that were coordinated by Dr Meena Ramanathan and the CYTER Team led by Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani who proposed the vote of thanks. Staff and students of KGNC and CYTER gave a special performance that included poetry, singing, dancing and demonstrations of advanced Yogasana to mark the occasion.
A book on "Yoga Practical Notes " compiled and edited by Sri G Dayanidy, Lecturer at CYTER was released on the occasion that was graced by attendees from MGMC&RI, KGNC, CMTER, ICYER at Ananda Ashram, Yoganjali Natyalayam and Pondicherry Yogasana Association.
For more details: www.sbvu.ac.in/ahs/yoga
The document provides an overview of the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, a 15th century text that is a foundational scripture of Hatha yoga. It describes the text as illuminating physical, mental and spiritual problems for yoga practitioners. It outlines the four chapters of the text, which cover asanas, pranayama, mudras and bandhas, and samadhi. The summary highlights some of the key practices taught, including various asanas, pranayamas like nadi shodhana, and mudras and bandhas that channel energy and arouse particular states of mind.
The document discusses the importance of breathing at three levels - external respiration which is the exchange of gases between the atmosphere and blood, internal respiration which is the exchange between blood and cells, and cellular respiration which uses oxygen to break down glucose in cells. It describes the anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system, including how it transports gases to and from the circulatory system. It also discusses pranayama, the science of controlling the life force known as prana through controlling the breath.
This document provides an overview of the origin and development of yoga throughout history. It discusses yoga practices in ancient civilizations like the Indus Valley and their influence on religions including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Christianity, and Islam. It then outlines the major periods of yoga - pre-classical, classical, and post-classical - and influential yoga texts and practitioners within each period. The document seeks to dispel common misconceptions about yoga and establish it as a universal science of holistic health rather than a religious practice.
Patanjali Yoga Sutra Overview by Praveen Praveen Gupta
The document provides an overview and summary of Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, which are 196 aphorisms compiled into four chapters that provide step-by-step guidance to achieve samadhi or liberation. The four chapters are: 1) Aims of Yoga, 2) Practice of Yoga, 3) Power Through Yoga, and 4) Liberation Through Yoga. Each chapter addresses questions that were likely asked by Patanjali's students and provides answers by citing the relevant sutras. The overview highlights key concepts from each chapter such as the eight limbs of yoga, samadhi, separating the seer from the seen, and powers that can be gained through yoga practice.
The document provides an overview of pranayam (yogic breathing techniques) including:
1) It defines key terms like puraka (inhalation), kumbhaka (retention), and rechaka (exhalation) and explains how the breath is visualized as filling and emptying the body like a pot.
2) It describes the benefits of pranayam such as activating the life force energy (prana), improving oxygen flow, reducing stress, and quieting the mind.
3) It discusses the nadis (energy channels) and chakras (energy centers) that pranayam influences, and how freely flowing prana leads to
Patanjali's 8-fold path provides guidelines for a meaningful and purposeful life through moral and ethical conduct. It consists of yama (restraints), niyama (observances), asana (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), pratyahara (sense withdrawal), dharna (concentration), dhyana (meditation), and samadhi (absorptive contemplation). The first four stages focus on refining one's personality and gaining control over the body to prepare for the higher states of consciousness addressed in the later stages.
The document discusses the physiological effects of breathing and pranayama. It begins by defining pranayama as breath control in yoga and how it regulates the life force energy (prana) in the body. It then describes how different yoga traditions approach teaching pranayama in relation to asana practice. The main part of the document discusses the physiology of breathing, how muscles like the diaphragm cause inhalation and exhalation by changing pressure in the lungs. It explains how breathing impacts oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood and tissues, and how different breathing patterns can affect the body and mind.
Pranayama is the fourth limb of yoga that focuses on breath control. It has three phases - inhalation, retention, and exhalation. Some common types are Bhastrika to boost energy, Kapal Bhati for detoxification, Nadi Shodhan to balance the brain, and Bhramari to calm the mind. Pranayama is believed to help control the mind through regulating breath. Regular practice provides cognitive, lung, and stress-reducing benefits and can help with anxiety, psychosomatic disorders, and quitting smoking.
This document discusses the relationship between pranayama (yogic breathing techniques), energy, and meditation. It explains that pranayama can be used to increase and channel prana (life force energy), which is intricately linked to the mind. Stabilizing prana through practices like pranayama can help still the mind and lead to transcendent states. The document recommends using pranayama techniques like dirgha, ujjayi, kapalabhati and bhastrika before meditation to raise one's energy levels and enhance the meditation experience. It emphasizes bringing awareness to the subtle sensations of energy movement during pranayama practice in order to deepen its effects
This document discusses the nasal cycle, where one nostril is more open than the other on a cyclical basis due to autonomic nervous system activity. It also discusses how yoga teachings relate the nasal cycle to energy flows through the body and how breathing through each nostril impacts different brain hemispheres and functions. Forced breathing techniques can be used to study and influence the nasal cycle. More research is needed to understand how the nasal cycle relates to the health benefits of certain yoga breathing exercises.
PRANAYAMA: ITS THERAPEUTIC AND SPIRITUAL POTENTIALYeruvaBrothers
This document discusses the therapeutic and spiritual potential of pranayama, or yoga breathing techniques. It describes how pranayama is emphasized in ancient Indian texts as a way to control the life force energy. Several yoga masters throughout history teach that pranayama calms the mind and awakens hidden spiritual energies. When practiced correctly, pranayama can improve overall health, brain function, and emotional well-being by balancing the nervous system and reducing stress and anxiety.
Hatha yoga is a system that integrates physical, mental, emotional and spiritual practices. It aims to bring balance through asanas, pranayama, mudras, bandhas and meditation. Regular practice leads to benefits like optimum health, mental clarity, willpower and inner peace. Key texts include Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Gheranda Samhita, Hatharatnavali and Siva Samhita, which describe practices like asanas, purification techniques, pranayama, mudras and meditation. The goal of Hatha yoga is preparation of the body and mind for higher states of consciousness.
Vibhaga and pranava pranayama of Gitananda Rishictulure Yoga by Dr AnandaYogacharya AB Bhavanani
A presentation on Vibhaga and pranava pranayama of Gitananda Rishiculture Yoga by Yogacharya Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani, Ashram Acharya ICYER at Ananda Ashram, Pondicherry, India.
The document provides an outline for an introduction to yoga workshop including:
- A disclaimer noting participants participate at their own risk.
- An overview of the program including prayers, breathing exercises, warm ups, loosening exercises, and Suryanamaskar (sun salutations).
- Detailed descriptions and benefits of the various breathing exercises, warm ups, and loosening exercises to be taught.
Yogacharya Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani's special session on Yoga and the digestive system for members of the Rishiculture Gitananda Yoga Family.
Disclaimer: Copyrights of images used in the presentation belong to the respective owners and Dr Ananda doesn't claim any IPR on them and has used them only for educational purposes with no malafide intentions.
It is well established that stress weakens our immune system. Scientific research in recent times has showed that the physiological, psychological and biochemical effects of Yoga are of an anti-stress nature. Mechanisms postulated included the restoration of autonomic balance as well as an improvement in restorative, regenerative and rehabilitative capacities of the individual. A healthy inner sense of well being produced by a life of Yoga percolates down through the different levels of our existence from the higher to the lower producing health and wellbeing of a holistic nature.
The document discusses the integrated approach of yoga therapy according to Dr. Shamanthakamani Narendran. It discusses the concepts of health, disease, and the body according to modern science and ancient yogic texts. It explains that stress born illnesses originate from imbalances in the subtle sheaths (kosas) of the body starting from the mental sheath (manomaya kosa) and can manifest physically. Yoga helps reduce stress and bring balance to the kosas through techniques like asanas, pranayama, meditation and kriyas.
The document summarizes the eight classical pranayamas as described in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and other ancient yoga texts. It provides brief descriptions of each of the eight pranayamas - Sitkari, Sitali, Bhastrika, Brahmari, Ujjayi, Surya Bhedana, Murccha, and Plavini. It also discusses classifications of pranayama, the four functions of breath, and the importance of practicing pranayama under the guidance of a guru according to ancient yoga traditions.
The 6th Foundation Day of CYTER, the Centre for Yoga Therapy, Education & Research in Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, Pondicherry was celebrated at Mahatma Gandhi Medical College & Research Institute on Tuesday, 2nd November 2016.
The theme of this year's celebration was "Introducing Yoga in Nursing Education" and was presided over by the Vice Chancellor of SBV, Prof KR Sethuraman in the presence of Prof N Ananthakrishnan, Dean Allied Health Sciences and Prof AR Srinivasan, Registrar SBV.
Prof KR Sethuraman reminded nursing students of their vital role in healthcare as the primary caregivers for patients and stressed the importance of Yoga in their personal and professional life. Prof N Ananthakrishnan, Prof AR Srinivasan, Yogacharini Vijaya from Gitananda Yoga Society of Berlin, Germany and Prof VN Mahalakshmi Vice Principal MGMC&RI offered felicitations.
CYTER's Director Prof Madanmohan welcomed the guests for the celebrations that were coordinated by Dr Meena Ramanathan and the CYTER Team led by Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani who proposed the vote of thanks. Staff and students of KGNC and CYTER gave a special performance that included poetry, singing, dancing and demonstrations of advanced Yogasana to mark the occasion.
A book on "Yoga Practical Notes " compiled and edited by Sri G Dayanidy, Lecturer at CYTER was released on the occasion that was graced by attendees from MGMC&RI, KGNC, CMTER, ICYER at Ananda Ashram, Yoganjali Natyalayam and Pondicherry Yogasana Association.
For more details: www.sbvu.ac.in/ahs/yoga
The document provides an overview of the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, a 15th century text that is a foundational scripture of Hatha yoga. It describes the text as illuminating physical, mental and spiritual problems for yoga practitioners. It outlines the four chapters of the text, which cover asanas, pranayama, mudras and bandhas, and samadhi. The summary highlights some of the key practices taught, including various asanas, pranayamas like nadi shodhana, and mudras and bandhas that channel energy and arouse particular states of mind.
The document discusses the importance of breathing at three levels - external respiration which is the exchange of gases between the atmosphere and blood, internal respiration which is the exchange between blood and cells, and cellular respiration which uses oxygen to break down glucose in cells. It describes the anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system, including how it transports gases to and from the circulatory system. It also discusses pranayama, the science of controlling the life force known as prana through controlling the breath.
This document provides an overview of the origin and development of yoga throughout history. It discusses yoga practices in ancient civilizations like the Indus Valley and their influence on religions including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Christianity, and Islam. It then outlines the major periods of yoga - pre-classical, classical, and post-classical - and influential yoga texts and practitioners within each period. The document seeks to dispel common misconceptions about yoga and establish it as a universal science of holistic health rather than a religious practice.
Patanjali Yoga Sutra Overview by Praveen Praveen Gupta
The document provides an overview and summary of Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, which are 196 aphorisms compiled into four chapters that provide step-by-step guidance to achieve samadhi or liberation. The four chapters are: 1) Aims of Yoga, 2) Practice of Yoga, 3) Power Through Yoga, and 4) Liberation Through Yoga. Each chapter addresses questions that were likely asked by Patanjali's students and provides answers by citing the relevant sutras. The overview highlights key concepts from each chapter such as the eight limbs of yoga, samadhi, separating the seer from the seen, and powers that can be gained through yoga practice.
The document provides an overview of pranayam (yogic breathing techniques) including:
1) It defines key terms like puraka (inhalation), kumbhaka (retention), and rechaka (exhalation) and explains how the breath is visualized as filling and emptying the body like a pot.
2) It describes the benefits of pranayam such as activating the life force energy (prana), improving oxygen flow, reducing stress, and quieting the mind.
3) It discusses the nadis (energy channels) and chakras (energy centers) that pranayam influences, and how freely flowing prana leads to
Patanjali's 8-fold path provides guidelines for a meaningful and purposeful life through moral and ethical conduct. It consists of yama (restraints), niyama (observances), asana (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), pratyahara (sense withdrawal), dharna (concentration), dhyana (meditation), and samadhi (absorptive contemplation). The first four stages focus on refining one's personality and gaining control over the body to prepare for the higher states of consciousness addressed in the later stages.
The document discusses the physiological effects of breathing and pranayama. It begins by defining pranayama as breath control in yoga and how it regulates the life force energy (prana) in the body. It then describes how different yoga traditions approach teaching pranayama in relation to asana practice. The main part of the document discusses the physiology of breathing, how muscles like the diaphragm cause inhalation and exhalation by changing pressure in the lungs. It explains how breathing impacts oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood and tissues, and how different breathing patterns can affect the body and mind.
Pranayama is the fourth limb of yoga that focuses on breath control. It has three phases - inhalation, retention, and exhalation. Some common types are Bhastrika to boost energy, Kapal Bhati for detoxification, Nadi Shodhan to balance the brain, and Bhramari to calm the mind. Pranayama is believed to help control the mind through regulating breath. Regular practice provides cognitive, lung, and stress-reducing benefits and can help with anxiety, psychosomatic disorders, and quitting smoking.
This document discusses the relationship between pranayama (yogic breathing techniques), energy, and meditation. It explains that pranayama can be used to increase and channel prana (life force energy), which is intricately linked to the mind. Stabilizing prana through practices like pranayama can help still the mind and lead to transcendent states. The document recommends using pranayama techniques like dirgha, ujjayi, kapalabhati and bhastrika before meditation to raise one's energy levels and enhance the meditation experience. It emphasizes bringing awareness to the subtle sensations of energy movement during pranayama practice in order to deepen its effects
Yoga is an ancient Indian practice that combines physical, mental, and spiritual disciplines to achieve harmony of the body and mind. There are four main streams of yoga: karma yoga focuses on selfless service, bhakti yoga emphasizes devotion, raja yoga concentrates on meditation, and jnana yoga centers around wisdom. Key components of yoga include asanas (physical postures), pranayama (breathing techniques), and meditation. Common asanas described in the document include uttanasana, ardha chakrasana, and simhasana. Pranayama techniques like anuloma viloma, sheethali, and bhramari are beneficial for relaxation, cooling the body, and improving memory
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This document provides an overview of prana and pranayama from classical yoga texts. It defines prana as the vital life force that sustains all of creation. Pranayama practices were developed by yogis to access the pranic field for balancing the body and controlling the mind to attain higher states of consciousness. The three stages of pranayama - inhalation, retention and exhalation - are used in different permutations and directions to produce various pranayama techniques. Pranayama aims to clear blockages in the nadis (energy channels) and awaken the chakras to utilize our full energy, mind and consciousness potential.
Pranayama is more than just breath control - it is the conscious and mindful flow of prana (life force energy) through the vehicle of breathing. The focus is not just on inhaling oxygen and exhaling carbon dioxide, but on coordinating the four parts of pranayama - puraka (inhalation), antara kumbhaka (retention after inhalation), rechaka (exhalation), and shunyaka or bahira kumbhaka (retention after exhalation) - to enhance the flow of pranic energy. Through this practice, the individual prana is transformed into universal prana in exhalation, allowing space
Pranayama is the control of vital energy through breath discipline and restraint. It involves gaining awareness of breathing mechanics and becoming a master of the breath. Pranayama is an essential yoga technique that can be developed through dedicated practice in intensive pranayama courses. These courses teach students to gain control over their subtle astral body and inner vital energies by controlling their breath.
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This document provides an overview of pranayama, the yoga practice of controlling the life force energy known as prana through breath control. It explains that prana is a subtle energy that sustains all life beyond just the physical breath. Pranayama was discovered to have powerful effects on the mind and is practiced in hatha yoga to internalize consciousness and cure illnesses. It became a chief practice for calming the ever-fickle mind. The document outlines the different phases of inhalation, exhalation, and retention of breath and notes that greatest focus of the mind is achieved in suspended breathing.
This document discusses the importance of breathing and respiration from both a scientific and yogic perspective. It covers:
1) The role of the respiratory system in exchanging gases between the atmosphere, blood, and cells. Respiration occurs at the cellular and organism levels.
2) Yogic concepts of prana as the universal life force and different levels of pranic manifestation from minerals to humans. Pranayama involves controlling prana through breath control techniques.
3) Details of respiratory anatomy and the mechanics of breathing. It also discusses how pranayama techniques can balance the breath and expand awareness.
Pranayama is the practice of controlling the life force through rhythmic breathing exercises. It is an important next step after asana practice, as it further internalizes consciousness, making the practitioner less impacted by external factors like heat, cold, noise. Pranayama should not be seen as merely controlling breath, but as controlling prana, the all-pervading energy sustaining life. Rhythmic breathing and breath retention have been found to powerfully affect the mind. Pranayama is used in Hatha yoga both as a means to internalize consciousness and as a medical practice to cure illnesses. It became a chief practice for controlling the ever-fickle mind. The mind is best controlled
Pranayama refers to the extension or augmentation of prana, the vital life force energy, through breathing techniques. It aims to impact the flow of prana in the nadis or energy channels of the pranamaya kosa, or energy body. Lifestyle factors like exercise, diet, stress, and emotions can influence the distribution and flow of prana in the body. Pranayama practices are meant to energize and balance the different pranas within the pranamaya kosa to counteract energy depletion and prevent illness. Correct breathing through pranayama enhances lung capacity and prepares one for more advanced pranayama techniques.
Pranayama is the ancient yoga practice of breath control that dates back over 4,000 years. It is considered a more advanced practice that requires mastery of asanas first before undertaking. Pranayama involves consciously regulating the breath through prolonged inhalations, exhalations, and retentions. It helps steady the mind and brings focus. The document outlines that asanas must be consistently practiced for months to years to properly prepare the body for pranayama through improved flexibility, strength, and mindfulness. Only then can one safely begin exploring pranayama under expert guidance.
Yoga is a spiritual practice that originated in ancient India. It involves eight limbs including physical postures, breathing exercises, meditation, and achieving union between the body, mind and spirit. The core of yoga practice is an eight-limbed path consisting of yamas (universal ethics), niyamas (personal observances), asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing), pratyahara (sense withdrawal), dharana (concentration), dhyana (meditation), and samadhi (blissful absorption in the divine). Surya namaskar (sun salutation) is a sequence of 12 yoga postures that provide cardiovascular benefits and can be done as a complete workout.
faulty lifestyle has increased the percentage of lifestyle disorders. pranayama can be a better solution to treat and control these disorders like anxiety, hormonal imbalance, PCOS, DM, HTN, thyroid dysfunction etc
Yoga is an ancient practice that aims to unite the individual consciousness with the cosmic consciousness through various techniques. These techniques work to integrate the body, mind, and spirit for total health, which the WHO defines as physical, mental, and social well-being. Yoga views the human being as having five layers or koshas - from the innermost spiritual essence to the outer physical body. Practices like asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), and meditation are taught in yoga classes to create harmony between these layers and maintain health by facilitating the balanced flow of prana (life force energy) through the nadis (energy channels).
Set within the framework and against the background authority and context of the Yoga canon - ancient and modern - this is an exposition of the seminal significance of prana (vital life force), its conscious control and expansion within the energy sheath (pranayama kosha) for the benefit of the human condition. The classical kumbhakas (pranayamas), their health benefits; physical, mental and emotional upon the various body systems are elucidated enabling a clear understanding of the application of these practices across the age range. Gender specific advice and guidance for the alleviation of stress and its related issues is given. Time honoured views on Swara Yoga are touched upon. Pranayama’s spiritual dimension completes the health benefits for the sadhak.
Yoga has been practiced for thousands of years and teaches techniques like pranayama for controlling the life force. Pranayama involves controlling the breath through techniques of inhaling, retaining, and exhaling. It has various health benefits and types including Nadi Shodhana for balancing the nervous system. Pranayama is best practiced in the morning on an empty stomach for relaxation and focus.
Yoga philosophy in yaga part yo philosophyhpsmart99
This document provides an overview of yoga, including its introduction, classification, types, stages, and philosophy. It begins with defining yoga and noting its origins in ancient Sanskrit texts. Yoga is then classified into four historical periods: pre-classical, classical, post-classical, and modern. The types of yoga are outlined, such as Hatha, Ashtanga, Vinyasa, and others. The eight limbs or stages of yoga are described. Finally, the key philosophies of yoga are summarized, such as the concepts of karma and reincarnation.
The document discusses mindfulness and breathing based healing (MBH) as part of Dr. Sahdev's "Breathe and Heal" therapy. It explains that pranayama (yogic breathing exercises) and dhyana (meditation) are powerful healing tools from yoga. Mindfulness is inherent in pranayama and the two concepts are inseparable. MBH introduces a logical sequence of techniques combining breathing and meditation to promote health of body, mind and spirit. It is presented as a safe and complete program drawing from principles of ashtanga yoga and tailored for health benefits. The document also discusses the roots of mindfulness and meditation in ancient Indian spiritual traditions as well as scientific evidence for physical benefits of controlled
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Pranayama full details as brief
1. 1
PRANAYAMA:
The Science of Vital Control
and
DESCRIPTION OF 99 YOGA PRANAYAMA TECHNIQUES
BY
Yogamaharishi Dr. Swami Gitananda Giri Guru Maharaj
Ancient Sanskrit sources proclaim that Pranayama is a “holy science” leading to inner spiritual
development. “Prana is the fundamental basis of whatever is, was, and will be.” (Atharvaveda)
“Pranayama is a technique bringing under control all that is connected with Prana the Vital
Force. (Vishnu Purana) Whatever our source, the ancient Rishis all agree that there is a vital
energy called Prana, and that it can be controlled, Ayama. The science of this control is
Pranayama.
In Yoga it is understood that man has at least five bodies (sheaths) the Pancha Kosha, of which
the second one is the Pranamaya Kosha. This Pranamaya Kosha is the vital body, the dynamis, or
the sheath composed of breath/life. Pranayama must be understood as a science of more than
breath control. This science may begin with techniques regulating the breath, but later it leads to
much more subtle Prakriyas than simple regulation of air.
Ordinary day-to-day breathing while embodied in the Annamaya Kosha, the physical body, is
largely an autonomic or automatic process governed by the lower brain. In Yoga Pranayama the
whole breathing function is taken over by the higher brain which is used by the conscious mind.
Both autonomic and conscious breath have two distinct aspects: one, which is termed as outer
respiration and the other, as inner respiration. The terms Bahya for outer, and Antara for inner
respiration are used by Yogis to explain the difference between autonomic and conscious breath.
In this sense they take on an additional esoteric meaning and value.
For the neophyte, the practice of Yoga begins with the control of the breathing mechanism and
the cruder aspects of respiration, while the inner aspects of Pranayama become a concern only
for the advanced Yogi.
In this lesson an attempt has been made to present a compendium of all of the known
Pranayamas and to give a brief description of their purpose and function. Some criticism may be
offered at the brevity or some arguments arise as to the explanation of the technique, but this is
inevitable, as great confusion exists even in our ancient texts and amongst modern exponents of
Pranayama. My only qualification to present this compendium is the scope of knowledge
extended to me through my Guru and to state that I have practised every single Pranayama
named here to see if the benefits are as stated. Many of the Pranayama have been subjected to
rigorous scientific research.
2. 2
Pranayamas can be divided into three general classifications which indicate their aim or purpose
and the scope of development available to the classes. These three categories are:
THREE CLASSIFICATIONS OF PRANAYAMA
1. YOGA PRANAYAMAS, the ADHAMAS. These Pranayamas are basically physical
breath exercises or controls for correcting breathing difficulties which may interfere with
normal good health and the development to higher phases of Yoga. These techniques are
also essential for cleansing and purifying the respiratory tract, the lungs, the blood stream
and the various organs of the body, for toning up the nervous system and for
strengthening the mind. Therefore, they cover a range which could be considered one of
general health of both a physical and psychological nature, as well as a form of internal
hygiene.
2. SAMAYANA PRANAYAMAS, the MADHYAMAS. These Pranayamas are used as a
form of introspective means to attain to sensory control, sensory withdrawal,
concentration and meditation. Samayana represents the whole scope of the Antaranga of
Raja Yoga, so the use of Pranayama cannot be minimized for those who wish to attain to
the middle or higher stages of Yogic development.
3. SHAKTI PRANAYAMAS, the UTTANAS. These higher Pranayamas are for powerful
Prana/Shakti arousal and its control, and represent the most potent form of Yogic
stimulation. The actual techniques to arouse Kundalini Shakti are jealously guarded by
the Masters of Laya Yoga or those who follow the path of Dakshina Marga, the right
hand, evolutionary Tantra.
NOTE: In adhering to this triune grouping, Pranayama follows all of the other phases of Yoga. In
these three phases we find the cleansing, the leveling, and the rejuvenation, and the same theme
could be applied to the concept of the Trigunic nature of Tamas, Rajas and Satvas.
THE FOUR FUNCTIONS OF BREATH
At least four distinct functions are seen to be associated with breathing. These are the in-taking
of atmospheric air, the suspension of the taken breath, the expiration of body gases on the out-
going breath and in some cases, a hiatus of the breath, which can be controlled as a suspension of
breathing. In Srimad Bhagavad Gita these four phases are referred to as: Prana (in); Vidharana
(held in Pracch’hardana (out), and Apana (held out). The usual terms in Yoga for this four-fold
function are: Puraka (in); Kumbhaka (held in); Rechaka (out); and Shunyaka (held out). Further
subdivisions of this breathing cycle are a natural suspension of the held-in breath, the Kumbhaka
or Abhyantara and the natural Shunyaka or the held-out breath as Bahya. Sahaja is also used to
3. 3
suggest a natural suspension of the held-out breath. Kevala Kumbhaka also suggests the natural
Shunya or Sahaja state of the breath. Sahita Kumbhaka and Shunya Kumbhaka are terms which
are used to explain a controlled, held-out breath as opposed to the Sahaja or Kevala Kumbhaka.
PRINCIPLE PRANAYAMAS:
A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THEIR PURPOSE AND SCOPE
I. YOGA PRANAYAMAS: a group of breathing disciplines, corrective breaths, cleansers,
purifiers and rejuvenators.
DISCIPLINES
1. Adham Pranayama is Abdominal or Lower Lobular Breathing where breath is restricted
and controlled into the inferior lobes. Autonomic breathing is of this type only.
2. Madhyam Pranayama is Intra-costal, or Between-the-ribs, Mid-breathing, where breath is
restricted and controlled into the middle lobes or mid-lobular area of the lungs.
3. Adhyam Pranayama is Clavicular or High Lobe Breathing where the breath is controlled
and regulated into the superior lobes of the lungs.
4. Vibhaga Pranayama is Sectional or Lobular Breathing which involves the conscious
control of the three Pranayamas described above. Advanced practice involves learning to
control a single lobe at a time. All phases of the Vibhaga are to correct dyspnoea or faulty
breathing or as a preliminary step to correct Yogic breathing.
5. Dhirgha Pranayama is Controlled Deep Breathing in any sectional area or in all areas in
general.
6. Sukshma Pranayama is Shallow Breathing of a controlled nature. In the advanced stage,
this subtle breath is to “breathe like a butterfly.”
7. Visama Vritta Pranayama is to move the breath in and out in a long, yet controlled
pattern. Sama Vritta Pranayama is another name by which the Visama is known.
8. Loma-Viloma Pranayama is similar to the Visama Vritta but the patterns are cultured
according to a desired end of Yogic development. The breath is taken “in and out”
through the same nostril then, the opposite nostril is used.
9. MahatYoga Pranayama, the Grand Yoga Breath, is a form of complete breathing in
which all three major lobular areas are filled consecutively to the fullest possible capacity
for each area.
10. Sukha Pranayama is the Pleasant or Easy Breath, moving the breath in and out without
suspension, but adhering to the principles of the Mahatyoga Pranayama.
11. Swasa-Praswasa Pranayama is similar to Sukha Pranayama but the breathing is more
disciplined.
12. Sukha Purvaka Pranayama. This form of Pranayama is sometimes also called the
Samana Vritta and is a three-part breathing technique where:
i. Puraka, Kumbhaka and Rechaka are all done to the same time sequence.
ii. Where the held-in Kumbhaka, is double the time of the incoming Puraka and the
out-going Rechaka.
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iii. Where the in-coming and the out-going breath are double the time of the held-in
breath.
iv. Where the held-in breath replaced by the Shunyaka, or the held-out breath, and the
same patterns as A, B, and C, are mastered.
13. Kumbhaka Pranayama. The restraint of the held-in breath is to begin a discipline where
the breath is held-in for a short period of time and extended daily until lengthy retention
is attained.
WARNING: All Kumbhakas from No. 13 to No.22 are dangerous to practise by a beginner and
only under a Guru should they be perfected.
14. Abhyantara Pranayama is a lengthy Kumbhaka that is mastered by constant practise so
the breath can be held for a stipulated period of time “without any conscious restraint”.
Its parallel is Sahaja Pranayama, No. 20.
15. Purna Pranayama is the Completed or Extended Breath, sometimes called the Packing
Breath, and is done by taking short inspirations while otherwise maintaining the
Kumbhaka or held-in breath.
16. Shunyaka Pranayama. Shunyaka is a vacuum breath where the breath is held out for a
short period of time.
17. Bahya Pranamaya is to hold out the breath for a lengthy period of time.
18. Pratiloma Pranayama is to hold out the breath consciously for a designated period of
time “without tension or restraint”.
19. Apana-Pranayama is a Buddhist technique similar to the Yogic Pratiloma. (see also No.
79.)
20. Sahaja Pranayama is a natural suspension of breath after doing a controlled pattern of
Pranayama. It is usually produced by a form of Pratyahara.
21. Kevala Kumbhaka is an automatic suspension of breath produced by certain Pranayama
routines. It signifies the beginning of the higher controls which are called Prana Jnana
Kriyas.
CORRECTIVE PRANAYAMAS
22. Parshuka Pranayama is an isometric technique to set or re-set the rib cage in relationship
to the spine.
23. Srayuvristri Pranayama is a chest and back muscle stretching isometric to condition the
muscles associated with breathing.
24. Vyagraha Pranayama, the Tiger Breath, is breathing in such a manner as to learn how to
control the diaphragm and its nerve association with the spine.
PRANA DHAUTIS, SAUCHAS OR CLEANSERS
25. Bhastrika Pranayama. Bhastrika means to breathe out like a Bhasta or a blacksmith’s
bellows. In the simplest form the breath is blasted out in a single “whoosh”.
26. Pancha Bhastrika. A group of five Bhastrikas or Bellows Breaths commonly done
consecutively, such as: Mukha, Anunasika, Karnamalla Dhauti, Nadi Shoddhana and
Kapalabhati (q.v.).
27. Nau Bhastrika. A group of nine Bhastrikas or Bellows Breaths adding four extra Prana
Dhautis to the Pancha Bhastrika (q.v.). These four are forms of the “quiet Bhastrikas”, the
Nadi Shuddhi, Ujjai, Gada, and Surya Bhedana (q.v.)
5. 5
28. Bhastrika Saucha Pranayama. A group of Sauchas or cleansers which also includes
Mukha, Anunasika, Karnamalla, Netra, Mula and Nabhi (q.v.).
29. Pracch’hardana is a Pranayama very much like Kapalabhati, but used for cleansing of
the lungs. Attention is given to the sharp blasting out of the air. It is sometimes
mistakenly taught as Kapalabhati (q.v.).
30. Anunasika Bhastrika. The bellows-like discharge of the breath, is sent out through the
nostrils. Both the right and the left nostrils are exercised independently after the double
nostril cleansing. This is sometimes referred to as the Atomic Breath.
31. Mukha Bhastrika is a breath cleanser through the mouth. The lips are pursed into kaka
Mudra (like a crow’s beak) and the breath ejected with short, diaphragmic blasts until the
lungs are emptied of carbon-dioxide-laden air. This is a lung and blood purifier.
32. Karnamala Dhauti. This Dhauti or Saucha is to cleanse toxins from the ear passage. The
breath is suppressed by the fingers in the Nasarga Mudra so that it passes into the sinus
and ear passages. Barometric pressure is balanced by forcing air into the ears with the
cupped palms of the hands.
33. Netra Bhastrika is to cleanse the catarrh from behind the eyes. The eyes are suppressed
with the fingers in Chakshu Mudra and the air blasted out through the eye sockets.
34. Nabhi Bhastrika is another name for Nauli Kriya, although there is a breath technique
which can force a distension of the navel as in a hiatus hernia.
35. Mula Bhastrika is to cleanse the colon and the rectum by a discharge of gas. After doing
Plavini, the Pavana Mukta Asana is usually employed while doing this Pranayama.
36. Kapalabhati is the Skull Brightener and possibly the oldest of all Pranayamas. It is
classified as a Shat Karma, one of the classical six cleansing acts. The breath is rapidly
moved in a Bhastrika, while concentration is maintained along the floor of the brain.
COOLING BREATHS
37. Sheeta Pranayama is a form of mouth breathing to produce a cooling sensation in the
nerves of the body. The mouth is twisted into Gomukha Mudra and air sipped through the
orafice created. Expel through the nose.
38. Sheetali Pranayama. Fold the tongue like a tube into Kaka Chandra, a crow’s break, and
“sip” air through this tube until the lungs are filled. Expel through the nose.
39. Sitkari Pranayama. Fold the tongue like a tube into Kaka Chandra, but hold this tube
within the mouth so that the tip of the tongue touches the upper teeth. “Sip” in the air
with the sound of “si” until the lungs are filled and a “t” sound is made at the end of the
“si-t”. Expel through the nose.
HEATHING BREATHS
40. Agni or Tejas Pranayama, the Fire Breath. All Pranayama in the secondary stage produce
heat, even copious perspiration, but a group of techniques called the Pancha Sara (q.v.)
are used to create Pranic heat in specific body areas. Agni Sara is done like the Nauli
Kriya amongst Hatha Yogis, but a Laya Yogi knows this as higher Pranic control.
SOUND BREATHS
41. Swara Pranayama, the Sound Breath. In this group of breaths, sounds are produced to
tone up certain parts of the body or the nervous system. They are actually corrective
Pranayamas.
6. 6
42. Bhramara is to make a palatal sound like a male bee on the quick forced inspiration of
the breath.
43. Bhramari is to make the nasal sound of a female bee on the quick forced expiration of the
breath.
44. Kaki Pranayama, the Female Crow Breath, is to explode the breath from the back of the
throat while the entire mouth structure is puckered up in the Kaka Mudra, like a crow’s
beak.
45. Kaka Pranayama is the same as Kaki, but the breath is blasted out with a loud “hah” like
the sound of a crow. This breath strengthens vocal power.
46. Kukriya Pranayama, the Dog Pant, is to strengthen the solar plexus. With the tongue
lolled out in Jihva Mudra, breathe rapidly in and out through the mouth like a canine.
47. Bhujangini Mudra is a Pranayama done from Bhujanga Asana. The posture is attained
while hissing out the breath like a snake. It cures neurasthenia.
48. Singha Nada Pranayama, the Lion Growl Breath. While lying face prone raise the head
just off the floor while breathing in through the nostrils in such a fashion as to create a
lion’s snort or growl. It prevents or cures tonsillitis, adenoiditis and conditions affecting
the uvula.
49. Marjariya Pranayama, the Cat Yawning Stretch Breath. From a face prone position take
the breath in through the lungs in a deep yawn while doing a high back-arch stretch.
Adjusts glandular disorders.
50. Thaan Kriya, a series of fourteen sounds done while doing Pranayama to tone up the
entire vocal apparatus for Nada Yoga. Many of the Swara Pranayama above are included
in the section on Thaan. The others use a group of sounds based on the sound “Ha”.
Sometimes, this breath is called Hathaan Pranayama.
51. Ha-Thaan Panayama. While doing various Hatha Yoga Asanas and Kriyas, the sound
“hah” is exploded on the out breath and the head lowed against the body part, or the
ground, as indicated by the Kriya.
PRANA KRIYA OR PRANA KARMAS
52. Ghatashtha Pranayama. The Training Breaths are a group of body movements where
Pranayama is used to support the movement. Ghatavashtha means constant practice, the
shorter form of Ghatashtha means to discipline or train the breath.
53. Uddiyana Pranayama, more correctly. Uddiyana Bandha, is to draw back and up the
abdominal organs after the breath has been “whooshed” out in a Bhastrika. The “flying-
up” restraint is a part of the Bandha Trayam.
54. Nauli Pranayama, more correctly, the Nauli Kriya or Naulika Kriya. While holding
Uddiyana Bandha, the abdominal recti are relaxed and then raised again in a sea-wave-
like action. Vamanauli is to churn the abdominal muscles to the left, while Dakshinanauli
is to churn the abdominal muscles to the right.
PURIFIERS
55. Nadi Shoddhana. A Nerve Cleanser where the breath is moved rapidly through the
nostrils. With the incoming breath on the right nostril and out-going breath on the left
nostril, there is no suspension of breath. Vishnu Hasta Mudra is used to control the flow
of breath.
56. Nadi Shuddhi, the Nerve Purifier. The breath is moved slowly through the right nostril
on the in-coming breath and let out through the left nostril. A Hasta Mudra or hand
control called Vishnu Mudra is used to control the ow of breath.
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57. Sagarbha Pranayama is to do Japa with “lipped” breath while doing any form of quiet
breathing or Nadi Shuddhi. See also Samanu Pranayama No. 60.
58. Nigarbha Pranayama is to do silent Japa while using any form of quiet breathing, or the
Nadi Shuddhi. See also Nirmanu Pranayama No. 61.
59. Agarbha Pranayama is to do any quiet Pranayama after Mantra or Japa chanting. The
Mantra may be Gayatri and the Japa on “AUM” or a Chakra Bija.
60. Samanu Pranayama is to concentrate on the symbol of the Pranava “AUM” while doing
Nadi Shuddhi. Chakra Bijas are also used (See Laya Pranayama).
61. Nirmanu Pranayama is to concentrate on the Pranava “AUM” or a Chakra Bija in the
“mind’s eye” while doing Nadi Shuddhi.
62. Bhuta Shuddhi Pranayama is a technique like Nauli Kriya, but is also a technique used
with Kushala Pranayama (q.v.).
HEALING BREATHS
63. Kushala Pranayama is a form of Pranic or magnetic healing. While holding in the
breath, a body part is tapped with the finger tips, exuding Prana into the appropriate
organ. This is also known as Bhuta Shuddhi. The technique is usually applied to the
lungs as a Pranayama.
64. Mastitashkautrija Pranayama, the Brain Stimulator, is a technique of tapping the skull
over the brain, one hand at a time, to stimulate brain activity with the Prana exuded
from the fingertips as in Kushala Pranayama.
65. Brahmapura Pranayama is a brain purifier done by concentration of Prana into specific
brain areas while doing any form of Rhythmic Breath, like the Savitri Pranayama (q.v.).
66. Naga Pranayama, the Serpent Breath. While doing Kumbhaka, imagine Prana to be
escaping through the pores of the skin. Inspire more air without releasing the breath
every nine seconds until nearly fatigued. Naga Pranayama opens the pores of the skin,
creating immense cosmetic benefits.
REJUVENATORS
67. Pancha Sahita Pranayama is a five-part ratio or mathematical breath, with each part
having a distinct effect upon the Prana flowing into a specific body organ. In the first
four Sahitas the breath is a four-part control of in, held in, out, and held-out whle in the
fifth, the held out breath is discarded.
68. Sahita Pranayama is the last part of the Pancha Sahita Pranayama as above. (See
previous page) It is an excellent technique to rejuvenate the heart muscles. This same
technique is sometimes called Sama Vritta, but incorrectly so.
II. SAMAYANA PRANAYAMAS, THE INTROSPECTIONAL BREATHS
69. Aloma-Viloma Pranayama, the Force and Aft Breath, is a form of deep conscious
Rhythmic Breathing with no suspension or retention either in or out, but with the mental
sensation of Prana sweeping from the head to the feet on the in-coming breath and
Apana sweeping from the foot to head on the out-going breath.
70. Savitri Pranayama, the Rhythmic Breath. The breath is taken in and let out to the same
time cycle and head in and out for half of that time. If the in/out cycle is a six count,
then the held-in/held-out time is a three count. The conventional ratio is eight by four
(8X4X8X4). This breath is used as the basis of all the Prana Jnana Kriyas, Pratyahara
and the Dharana of Raja Yoga.
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71. Anuloma-Viloma Pranayama, the Polarizing Breath, is a more subtle form of Aloma-
Viloma Pranayama (No. 69). A retention or suspension of the breath is practised after
the in-coming and the out-going breath. The Savitri Pranayama, the Rhythmic Breath
above, is recommended for the basic pattern. On the in-coming breath warm, golden
solar Prana is visualized as moving from head to foot. On the out-going breath Apana or
planetary, magnetic energy of a cool, silver-blue or silver colour is envisioned as
passing from the feet to the head. The technique is practised until deep relaxation or
Pratyahara is attained. A natural suspension of the breath, the Sahaja or Kevala
Kumbhaka, often times spontaneously occurs with this Pranayama.
72. Murccha Pranayama, the Faint or Shallow Breath, is accomplished by locking in the
breath with Jalandhara Bandha, a throat lock, while retaining the breath until a light
stupor ensues. The inhalation of the breath is to be very long and deep. (Note No. 73
and 74).
73. Gada Pranayama is the Club Breath where a stupor or euphoric state is produced by the
technique to aid a student who has an overly active mind. It can produce fainting, even
lengthy coma, and must be taught only under the guidance of a competent Guru.
74. Stambhavritti Pranayama is the Stupefying Breath with a similar result as the Gada
Pranayama above. It must be taught only by a competent Guru.
75. Plavini Pranayama, the Rising or Floating Breath, is a technique where atmospheric air
is swallowed into the stomach and the deep in and out breaths practised: then, the air is
belched out. A Yogi is able to float on water for lengthy periods of time if the air is kept
in the stomach.
76. Plavini Mudra is the Rising or Floating Gesture using the previous Plavini Pranayama.
Numerous body parts are raised while the stomach is distended by air and it is reported
that gravitational attraction of the earth can be broken and levitation achieved. The
“actions” of the Mudra are safely guarded by Gurus who know the technique.
77. Shanmukha Pranayama or Shanmukha Mudra uses a finger Mudra to close the six
orifices of the face. The actual fact, seven orifices are closed by using the ten nerve
pressure points. The breath is suspended both in and out while listening for the Dasa
Dhun, the ten inner Celestial sounds.
78. Yoni Pranayama or Yoni Mudra, the Womb Gesture, is the same as the Shanmukha
Pranayama, only that the breath is moved in and out with the control of the finger
Mudra on the nose. The in-coming breath is always through the right nostril.
79. Anna-Apana-Sati is a Pranayama practised by Buddhist Bhikkus where the Anna
(Prana) is sacrificed to the Apana, creating a Sahajic state of breath suspension. (See
No. 80)
80. Swasha Praswashai is the technique suggested in the Bhagavad Gita as “the sacrificing
of one form of breath to the other”. Its result is Kevala Kumbhaka or natural breath
suspension.
81. Pirana-Apana Pranayama is the same technique as the Anna-Apana-Sati or the
Swasha-Praswasha Pranayama of No. 79 and No. 80.
III. SHAKTI OR POWER PRANAYAMAS
82. Nado-Dolyati Pranayama are two nerve stimulating breaths and must be taught by a
competent Guru.
83. Chandra Pranayama, the Moon Breath, is a technique to move Prana only in the Ida
Nadi, or the left peripheral nerves of the body by a finger control of the breath through
the left nostril only.
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84. Surya Pranayama, the Sun Breath, is a technique to move Prana only in the Pingala
Nadi, or the right peripheral nerves of the body by a finger control of the breath through
the right nostril only.
85. Ida-Shakti Pranayama is a Nadi Dolyati to stimulate energy through the Ida Nadi, the
left peripheral nerves of the body. It must be taught by a competent Guru.
86. Pingala-Shakti Pranayama is a Nadi Dolyati to stimulate energy through the Pingala
Nadi, the right peripheral nerves of the body. It must be taught by a competent Guru.
87. Paryayanasarandhra Pranayama is the Alternate Nostril Breath. The breath is let out,
and then taken in through the same nostril while doing the rhythmic Savitri Pranayama
(No. 70). Tremendous power is built into the nervous system through this practice.
88. Surya / Chandra Pranayama, the Sun / Moon Breath, is the same technique as the
Paryayanasarandhra above, but concentration onto the Sun and Moon Centres is added.
89. Ida/Pingala Pranayama is the same technique as No. 87 and No. 88, but concentration
upon the nerve flow in the appropriate Nadis is added.
90. Sushumna Pranayama, the Royal Road Breath, is to concentrate upon the lifting of
Kundalini Shakti from the base of the spine into the core of the brain on the in-coming
breath and returning via the same Royal Path to the Kanda or the base of the spine on
the out-going breath. It is an inferior form of the Laya Pranayama Kriya.
91. Ujjayi Pranayama, the Victorious Breath. After a deep breath, apply the Bandha
Trayam, the Triple Breath Restraints, then, let out the breath while maintaining these
restraints through the left nostril only, while making the sound of “Hang” in the throat.
Take in the breath through both nostrils while creating the sound “Sah” in the throat.
The breath cycle should be as for the Sahita Pranayama (No. 68).
92. Surya Bhedana Pranayama is the Sun-Splitter Breath to force Shakti to move through
Surya Nadi. It is the same technique as Ujjayi, but the breath is taken in through the
right nostril and let out through the left nostril, while doing Sahita Pranayama and the
Hang-Sah Mantra.
93. Pancha Prana Japa, the Five Force Homage Breath, is to garner control of the Pranadis
or Panch Vayus, the Five Major Pranas or Vital Airs which control various areas of
body. Uddhana controls the head, Prana Reflex controls heart and chest, Samana
controls the digestive organs, Apana controls the eliminative system, and Vyana
controls the motor activity of the body.
94. Pancha Vayu Pranayama is the same as No. 93, but concentration is held onto the
source of the Pranadis controlling the Prana.
95. Upa – Pranavayu Pranayama, the minor Prana Breath, is a technique to control the
lesser or minor vital airs of: Naga, which controls eructation, belching and vomiting;
Kurma, which controls hiccoughing and eye blinking: Krikalla or Krikkara which
controls sneezing, and all associations of gastric secretion; Devadatta, which controls
yawning and the three hungers for food, thirst and sex; Dhananjaya, which controls all
types of fatigue and fatty metabolism of the body. Bell’s Palsy, often seen with a
drooping of the eyelids, is controlled by this minor Prana.
96. Nagadi Pranayama, the Minor Vital Air Breaths, is the same as No. 95, but
concentration points differ.
97. Pancha Sara Pranayama, the Five Inner Breaths, are a secret technique used before
doing the Laya Yoga Kundalini-arousing Kriyas.
98. Pancha Bhuta Pranayama is the same as the Pancha Sara Pranayama, but with
concentration upon the Mandalas or symbols for the five elements of earth, water, fire,
air and ether.
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99. Laya Pranayama are Absorptive Breaths practised in conjunction with the Laya Yoga
Kriyas of Yoga and Tantra. They are the most prized technique of Yoga.