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 an art of living. It is more of a lifestyle than a mere physical activity. this presentation takes you through the meaning and types of yoga and also sheds light on various asanas and meditation techniques.
This study sheet by Ammaji Yogacharini Meenakshi Devi Bhavanani, reminds us of the main aspects of the traditional Eight Classical Pranayamas mentioned in time honored classical texts like the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and the Gherandha Samhita. However these Pranayamas are considered by the Rishi Culture Ashtanga Yoga Tradition of Dr. Swami Gitananda to be relatively advanced practices, which should be taught only after basic training in proper breathing is given. Yoga practitioners outside the traditional tutelage of the Gurukula often ignore the step by step practice of Pranayama as its import is little understood or appreciated. Swami Gitananda Guru Maharaja said, “God breathed the Breath of Life into man and he became a living soul.” He went on to say, “We must deepen it, lengthen it, control it, expand it and become conscious of it and its potentiality to link us with our Highest Nature.” In addition to over 375 Asanas, Kriyas, Mudras, Bandhas and cleansing practices more than 120 Pranayamas are taught in this tradition, designed to cleanse, purify, strengthen and sensitize the body, emotions and mind, making the human being a fit vehicle of the Divine Spirit.
Notes for Principles and Methods of Yoga Practices compiled from various sources by Reena and Dayanidy under guidance of Dr. Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani for DYEd, PGDY and PGDYT students.
YOGA: STEP-BY-STEP
By: Dr. Swami Gitananda Giri
This correspondence course is the best basic training in Classical Yoga through the written word now available. The Yoga: Step-By-Step Correspondence Course study is one of the requirements for those desiring to participate in the Six Month International Yoga Teacher’s Training Course held each year at ICYER from October 2 through March 25th.
Yogamaharishi Dr. Swami Gitananda developed this course in 1971 and the fifty-two weekly lessons are well illustrated with photographs and line drawings. It contains a practical, systematic step-by-step instruction in the integral practice of Rishiculture Ashtanga Yoga. Students answer the weekly lesson-questionnaire and submit their papers to ICYER - Ananda Ashram for evaluation.
Correspondence with the Guide Yogacharini Meenakshi Devi Bhavanani is encouraged. The Guru carefully goes through all papers and establishes a personal rapport with the students, through regular correspondence guiding each one through problems and difficulties.
A Certificate of proficiency is awarded upon successful completion of the course. Included, as a bonus is a free three-year subscription to the monthly journal Yoga Life.
Practice of Yoga helps in getting better focus of mind. Meditation, being part of Yoga, teaches you how to focus better and achieve more from any activity. Dharana, which means narrowed focus on a subject by restricting Chitta (mind) is one of the 8 limbs of Ashtangayoga. It teaches you to get rid of all other thoughts from the mind and focus on the target. People have benefited enormously in terms of focus of mind by doing meditation (Dhyana) and Dharana throughout all ages.
yoga is an art of living. It is more of a lifestyle than a mere physical activity. this presentation takes you through the meaning and types of yoga and also sheds light on various asanas and meditation techniques.
This study sheet by Ammaji Yogacharini Meenakshi Devi Bhavanani, reminds us of the main aspects of the traditional Eight Classical Pranayamas mentioned in time honored classical texts like the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and the Gherandha Samhita. However these Pranayamas are considered by the Rishi Culture Ashtanga Yoga Tradition of Dr. Swami Gitananda to be relatively advanced practices, which should be taught only after basic training in proper breathing is given. Yoga practitioners outside the traditional tutelage of the Gurukula often ignore the step by step practice of Pranayama as its import is little understood or appreciated. Swami Gitananda Guru Maharaja said, “God breathed the Breath of Life into man and he became a living soul.” He went on to say, “We must deepen it, lengthen it, control it, expand it and become conscious of it and its potentiality to link us with our Highest Nature.” In addition to over 375 Asanas, Kriyas, Mudras, Bandhas and cleansing practices more than 120 Pranayamas are taught in this tradition, designed to cleanse, purify, strengthen and sensitize the body, emotions and mind, making the human being a fit vehicle of the Divine Spirit.
Notes for Principles and Methods of Yoga Practices compiled from various sources by Reena and Dayanidy under guidance of Dr. Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani for DYEd, PGDY and PGDYT students.
YOGA: STEP-BY-STEP
By: Dr. Swami Gitananda Giri
This correspondence course is the best basic training in Classical Yoga through the written word now available. The Yoga: Step-By-Step Correspondence Course study is one of the requirements for those desiring to participate in the Six Month International Yoga Teacher’s Training Course held each year at ICYER from October 2 through March 25th.
Yogamaharishi Dr. Swami Gitananda developed this course in 1971 and the fifty-two weekly lessons are well illustrated with photographs and line drawings. It contains a practical, systematic step-by-step instruction in the integral practice of Rishiculture Ashtanga Yoga. Students answer the weekly lesson-questionnaire and submit their papers to ICYER - Ananda Ashram for evaluation.
Correspondence with the Guide Yogacharini Meenakshi Devi Bhavanani is encouraged. The Guru carefully goes through all papers and establishes a personal rapport with the students, through regular correspondence guiding each one through problems and difficulties.
A Certificate of proficiency is awarded upon successful completion of the course. Included, as a bonus is a free three-year subscription to the monthly journal Yoga Life.
Practice of Yoga helps in getting better focus of mind. Meditation, being part of Yoga, teaches you how to focus better and achieve more from any activity. Dharana, which means narrowed focus on a subject by restricting Chitta (mind) is one of the 8 limbs of Ashtangayoga. It teaches you to get rid of all other thoughts from the mind and focus on the target. People have benefited enormously in terms of focus of mind by doing meditation (Dhyana) and Dharana throughout all ages.
We reap only by first sowing and constructive and conscious effort is required every moment as nothing in life is obtained without effort. We must remember to lay the foundations well and “leave no stone unturned” if we truly wish to fulfill our ambitions. Nature goes through phases of seeding, nurturing much before the fruition occurs. We must never forget ancient wisdom that says, “As you sow so shall you reap” (Galatians 6:7).
The evolutionary Yogic process of culturing ourselves in order to attain the highest state of “universal perfection” deals with both the external as well the internal aspects of our individuality that are cultured in a step-by-step manner to integrate all levels thus producing completeness of our whole being.
Acknowledgement: - These are teachings i received from my Guru - Kulguru - Vishwas M Mandlik, Yog Vidya Dham, Nashik, Maharashtra, India - www.yogapoint.com
Five elements of yoga - Yoga in India Amresh Kumar
Get here five elements of yoga, Yoga in India is different from other because when you are in india you learn not only yoga techniques also learn meditation, cultural, diversity and most interesting thing is to learn yoga in group, the students came from across the world to learn yoga and meditation in India. visit our website its http://yoga-in-india.com and book your seat in advance.
INTRODUCING INTEGRAL YOGA EDUCATION IN THE TEACHER EDUCATION CURRICULUMYogacharya AB Bhavanani
Bhavanani AB. Introducing integral Yoga psychology in the teacher education curriculum. Journal of the Indian Academy of Applied Psychology 2006; 32 (No.2) Special Issue: 204-13.
GURU - MEANING
"Gu" means dark and "Ru" means light. So, "Guru" can be roughly translated as darkness to light, or possibly one who leads from darkness to light. The Guru is a teacher who guides the
Shishya's (student’s) life or a spiritual mentor who leads the shishya from blindness or ignorance to bliss, wisdom, and enlightenment.
We reap only by first sowing and constructive and conscious effort is required every moment as nothing in life is obtained without effort. We must remember to lay the foundations well and “leave no stone unturned” if we truly wish to fulfill our ambitions. Nature goes through phases of seeding, nurturing much before the fruition occurs. We must never forget ancient wisdom that says, “As you sow so shall you reap” (Galatians 6:7).
The evolutionary Yogic process of culturing ourselves in order to attain the highest state of “universal perfection” deals with both the external as well the internal aspects of our individuality that are cultured in a step-by-step manner to integrate all levels thus producing completeness of our whole being.
Acknowledgement: - These are teachings i received from my Guru - Kulguru - Vishwas M Mandlik, Yog Vidya Dham, Nashik, Maharashtra, India - www.yogapoint.com
Five elements of yoga - Yoga in India Amresh Kumar
Get here five elements of yoga, Yoga in India is different from other because when you are in india you learn not only yoga techniques also learn meditation, cultural, diversity and most interesting thing is to learn yoga in group, the students came from across the world to learn yoga and meditation in India. visit our website its http://yoga-in-india.com and book your seat in advance.
INTRODUCING INTEGRAL YOGA EDUCATION IN THE TEACHER EDUCATION CURRICULUMYogacharya AB Bhavanani
Bhavanani AB. Introducing integral Yoga psychology in the teacher education curriculum. Journal of the Indian Academy of Applied Psychology 2006; 32 (No.2) Special Issue: 204-13.
GURU - MEANING
"Gu" means dark and "Ru" means light. So, "Guru" can be roughly translated as darkness to light, or possibly one who leads from darkness to light. The Guru is a teacher who guides the
Shishya's (student’s) life or a spiritual mentor who leads the shishya from blindness or ignorance to bliss, wisdom, and enlightenment.
With the dizzying array of yoga styles being practiced the world over, it can often seem a little overwhelming when trying to understand the differences between them. While many of these varying disciplines may share similar characteristics, each type is unique and not all styles are suitable for every person wanting to practice yoga.
What is the most important thing in yoga.pdfJohnsonRose2
Yoga is a discipline that combines physical, mental, and spiritual exercises. It has its roots in ancient India. The word "yoga" comes from the Sanskrit verb "yuj," which meaning "to unite" or "to join." It denotes the coming together of the body, mind, and spirit.
Although asanas, or physical postures, are a common misconception about yoga, it is much more than that. It uses a variety of methods, like as breathing exercises (pranayama), meditation, ethical guidelines (yamas and niyamas),
The Benefits of Hatha Yoga_ A Beginner's Guide.pdflifelivability
The Benefits of Hatha Yoga: A Beginner's Guide, embarking on the enchanting journey of yoga, especially with a focus on Hatha Yoga, unfolds a myriad of transformative benefits for beginners. The Benefits of Hatha Yoga: A Beginner's Guide encompasses not only the physical aspects of this ancient practice but also delves into the profound impact it can have on mental and emotional well-being. At the heart of Hatha Yoga lies a holistic approach, a gentle yet potent exploration that invites beginners to discover the intricate dance between body, breath, and mind. In this guide, we navigate the rich tapestry of advantages that Hatha Yoga weaves, providing newcomers with a roadmap to physical resilience, mental clarity, and a balanced way of living. Join us as we unravel the unique gifts that Hatha Yoga brings to those taking their first steps into this transformative world. The Benefits of Hatha Yoga: A Beginner's Guide is more than a collection of poses; it's an invitation to embrace a practice that transcends the mat, enriching every facet of life.
Yoga is a form of exercise that has numerous health benefits. There are different types of yoga, each with its own unique approach and focus. Some of the health benefits of practicing yoga include improved flexibility, increased strength, reduced stress and anxiety, and improved mental clarity. Additionally, yoga can be used as a therapy to address specific health issues.
Know the principles of hatha yoga and its benefits. Hatha yoga is a slow-paced yoga asana that focuses on physical postures and breathing techniques. Hatha yoga is designed to achieve many benefits for our body and mind. It takes regular practice of controlled movements and stretching.
What's Yoga?
Patanjali in his Patanjalayogadarshana described the whole concept asanas in just 1 aphorism,
Sthirasukhamasanama to be perfected with Prayatnashaithilyananta Samapattibhayama. That is, simple and satisfying body posture to be achieved with minimal physical and mental efforts.
Patanjali formed the system of Ashtanga yoga and elaborated this particular system in Patanjalayogadarshana that's considered to be the oldest text. Yoga is the actual science of personality. It considers the entire field of personality including it's various facets such as aspects. Patanjali's Framework on Asanas: The 3rd and 4th limb of Patanjali's yoga includes a very efficient system of yogic postural and controlled and supervised yogic breathing methods which boosts health and vigour of their skeletal as well as deep seated smooth muscles and the organs in the thoracic cavity as well as the abdominal cavities. The yogic methods practiced while performing asanas have a relaxation, curative, restorative and preventive value. Breathing can be observed to have remarkable effects on several systems of the body, including the nervous system affecting the entire physic. When we hear the word yoga, most is a set of lively asanas appearing as if demonstrating supernatural happenings, turning and twisting postures that are complex.
Yoga is a mind and body practice. Various styles of yoga combine physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation or relaxation. Yoga is an ancient practice that may have originated in India. It involves movement, meditation, and breathing techniques to promote mental and physical well-being.
Discovering Inner Balance_ A Guide to Pranayama Yoga.pdfKnowing Overt
Unlock inner harmony with Pranayama Yoga's conscious breath control. Experience transformation, balance, and self-discovery through mindful breathing. Begin your journey now.
This presentation is based on yoga and its benefits. It tells how well you can control your life with yoga. There are many yoga practice in the world. Here, the name and the proper posture are detailed illustrated. I hope my presentation help.
Baby ganesha sitting on the lap of lord shiva and mother parvathi vintage baz...Dokka Srinivasu
These are 2 different Baby Ganesha sitting on the Lap of Lord Shiva and Mother Parvathi vintage bazaar post cards of 19th Century in my collection.
I am sharing these in my Heritage of India blog.
http://indian-heritage-and-culture.blogspot.in/2015/09/baby-ganesha-sitting-on-lap-of-lord.html
Every person want to fulfill something in his or her life. But success is coming to those people who are moving forward to implement some action instead of just thinking. Success is coming to those who think properly with proper and dedicated planning.
Every person has infinite potential within him/her. These 18 principles are useful as how a person use his infinite potential to succeed in life.
I prepared this power point presentation and i hope many people will benefited with this presentation to succeed in their Goals and Life. All the best to the readers those who study and implement these principles.
Maithreem Bhajatha song by smt. m.s. subbulakshmi at united nationsDokka Srinivasu
Maithree Bhajatha Song by Srimati M.S. Subbulakshmi at United Nations
http://srimati-ms-subbulakshmi.blogspot.in/2012/04/maithree-bhajatha-song-by-srimati-ms.html
Lord shiva with young ganesh mythological post cardDokka Srinivasu
This is my mythological post card. i share this in my heritage of india blog.
http://indian-heritage-and-culture.blogspot.in/2012/04/lord-shiva-with-young-ganesha.html
Heritage of India, Taj Mahal Post Card
I shared this in my heritage of India blog.
http://indian-heritage-and-culture.blogspot.in/2012/04/taj-mahal-post-card.html
The Chakra System in our body - A Portal to Interdimensional Consciousness.pptxBharat Technology
each chakra is studied in greater detail, several steps have been included to
strengthen your personal intention to open each chakra more fully. These are designed
to draw forth the highest benefit for your spiritual growth.
The Book of Joshua is the sixth book in the Hebrew Bible and the Old Testament, and is the first book of the Deuteronomistic history, the story of Israel from the conquest of Canaan to the Babylonian exile.
What Should be the Christian View of Anime?Joe Muraguri
We will learn what Anime is and see what a Christian should consider before watching anime movies? We will also learn a little bit of Shintoism religion and hentai (the craze of internet pornography today).
The PBHP DYC ~ Reflections on The Dhamma (English).pptxOH TEIK BIN
A PowerPoint Presentation based on the Dhamma Reflections for the PBHP DYC for the years 1993 – 2012. To motivate and inspire DYC members to keep on practicing the Dhamma and to do the meritorious deed of Dhammaduta work.
The texts are in English.
For the Video with audio narration, comments and texts in English, please check out the Link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zF2g_43NEa0
The Good News, newsletter for June 2024 is hereNoHo FUMC
Our monthly newsletter is available to read online. We hope you will join us each Sunday in person for our worship service. Make sure to subscribe and follow us on YouTube and social media.
In Jude 17-23 Jude shifts from piling up examples of false teachers from the Old Testament to a series of practical exhortations that flow from apostolic instruction. He preserves for us what may well have been part of the apostolic catechism for the first generation of Christ-followers. In these instructions Jude exhorts the believer to deal with 3 different groups of people: scoffers who are "devoid of the Spirit", believers who have come under the influence of scoffers and believers who are so entrenched in false teaching that they need rescue and pose some real spiritual risk for the rescuer. In all of this Jude emphasizes Jesus' call to rescue straying sheep, leaving the 99 safely behind and pursuing the 1.
Exploring the Mindfulness Understanding Its Benefits.pptxMartaLoveguard
Slide 1: Title: Exploring the Mindfulness: Understanding Its Benefits
Slide 2: Introduction to Mindfulness
Mindfulness, defined as the conscious, non-judgmental observation of the present moment, has deep roots in Buddhist meditation practice but has gained significant popularity in the Western world in recent years. In today's society, filled with distractions and constant stimuli, mindfulness offers a valuable tool for regaining inner peace and reconnecting with our true selves. By cultivating mindfulness, we can develop a heightened awareness of our thoughts, feelings, and surroundings, leading to a greater sense of clarity and presence in our daily lives.
Slide 3: Benefits of Mindfulness for Mental Well-being
Practicing mindfulness can help reduce stress and anxiety levels, improving overall quality of life.
Mindfulness increases awareness of our emotions and teaches us to manage them better, leading to improved mood.
Regular mindfulness practice can improve our ability to concentrate and focus our attention on the present moment.
Slide 4: Benefits of Mindfulness for Physical Health
Research has shown that practicing mindfulness can contribute to lowering blood pressure, which is beneficial for heart health.
Regular meditation and mindfulness practice can strengthen the immune system, aiding the body in fighting infections.
Mindfulness may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and obesity by reducing stress and improving overall lifestyle habits.
Slide 5: Impact of Mindfulness on Relationships
Mindfulness can help us better understand others and improve communication, leading to healthier relationships.
By focusing on the present moment and being fully attentive, mindfulness helps build stronger and more authentic connections with others.
Mindfulness teaches us how to be present for others in difficult times, leading to increased compassion and understanding.
Slide 6: Mindfulness Techniques and Practices
Focusing on the breath and mindful breathing can be a simple way to enter a state of mindfulness.
Body scan meditation involves focusing on different parts of the body, paying attention to any sensations and feelings.
Practicing mindful walking and eating involves consciously focusing on each step or bite, with full attention to sensory experiences.
Slide 7: Incorporating Mindfulness into Daily Life
You can practice mindfulness in everyday activities such as washing dishes or taking a walk in the park.
Adding mindfulness practice to daily routines can help increase awareness and presence.
Mindfulness helps us become more aware of our needs and better manage our time, leading to balance and harmony in life.
Slide 8: Summary: Embracing Mindfulness for Full Living
Mindfulness can bring numerous benefits for physical and mental health.
Regular mindfulness practice can help achieve a fuller and more satisfying life.
Mindfulness has the power to change our perspective and way of perceiving the world, leading to deeper se
HANUMAN STORIES: TIMELESS TEACHINGS FOR TODAY’S WORLDLearnyoga
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Lesson 9 - Resisting Temptation Along the Way
SBs – Sunday Bible School
Adult Bible Lessons 2nd quarter 2024 CPAD
MAGAZINE: THE CAREER THAT IS PROPOSED TO US: The Path of Salvation, Holiness and Perseverance to Reach Heaven
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Art of pranayama
1. The art
of pranayama
By Pixie Lillas
P ranayama is the art of breathing according to yoga principles and techniques. It is the beginning of the more inward journey on the path
of yoga, and a more subtle and refined form of self-awareness and exploration is both developed, and required, for its practice.
Often ignored by those western adaptations of yoga which only emphasise asana (posture) practice, pranayama is one of yoga’s most ancient
arts, probably dating back more than four thousand years to yoga’s very origins. Yoga’s most important historical text, Patanjali’s Yoga
Sutras written two thousand years ago, describes the practice of asana in such a manner as to suggest that at that time asanas were seen as a
necessary preparation for pranayama, but not widely practised for their own sake.
P ranayama is both outwardly quiet and abstract and inwardly precise and powerful. It is a long and challenging voyage which involves a
different approach from asana (posture) practice. Whereas the postures can initially make use of willpower and determination,
pranayama cannot be done with strength or force.
It is a practice even more subjective and personal than that of asana. In some ways, no one can really teach pranayama; as teachers we serve
as guides, giving reference points and techniques for the pupil to use as they experience the breath and its effects when channeled according
to yogic techniques.
If this sounds a little daunting, and perhaps excessively mystifying, remember that most classical yoga texts suggest that the practice of
pranayama is only to be undertaken when the yoga postures have been mastered, and under the guidance of an experienced teacher. In turn,
sustained practice of pranayama over many years is an element of, and a preparation for, the art of dhyana or yogic meditation.
This runs somewhat contrary to the modern Western concept that everything should be available to everybody at all times. Most yoga schools
receive frequent phone calls from people with no previous yoga experience asking if they offer lessons in pranayama and meditation, and if
not, why not.
The Path to Pranayama
T he Iyengar tradition takes a classical view of yoga breathing and meditation. According to Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, these aspects of yoga
come as later stages in the eight steps, or limbs, of yoga. First an understanding of the yoga postures must be achieved through keen and
conscious practice in order to refine the senses and hone the body and mind to become more perceptive instruments of self-observation.
Asanas help explore concepts of stillness and inner action, focus and reflection, firmness of body and alertness and steadiness of mind,
essential prerequisites for the practice of pranayama. If we were learning to play a musical instrument, we would start with the foundational
skills and progressively learn more difficult techniques; some more complex pieces would be unavailable to us until we had reached a degree
of accomplishment in the basic forms. Some music teachers will not allow their students, however gifted, to play certain passages until they
are mature in age and/or mental and emotional development. A good yoga teacher will exercise similar restraint with their pupils and teach
first a foundation of posture, body awareness and stability before introducing work with the breath.
I n earlier, more rigorous times in India, aspiring yoga practitioners had first to demonstrate their worthiness as a pupil before being taken
into apprenticeship with a teacher. The Hatha Yoga Pradipika (1.16) discusses certain habits that undermine yoga practice: over-eating,
over-exertion, useless talk, undisciplined conduct, bad company and restless inconstancy. The Yoga Upanisads mention other obstacles such
as bad physical posture and self-destroying emotions such as lust and anger, fear, greed, hatred and jealousy.
How then does one begin to overcome these most common of habits to make our way along the path of yoga?
Today, many yoga schools, and certainly those teaching the Iyengar tradition, understand that mindful practice of asana becomes a major
factor in creating the discipline, personal ethics, energy and firmness of intention required to move further along the path of pranayama to
inner awareness. In Light on Pranayama, BKS Iyengar writes that “as an earthen pot is baked in a furnace, so should the body be baked by
the fire of asanas to experience the true effulgence (efficacy) of pranayama.”
To begin pranayama, he says, we must first learn how to move the intercostal muscles (rib-cage muscles) correctly, and also the pelvic and
thoracic diaphragm, by practising the relevant asanas that bring elasticity to the lungs. Consistent performance of the asanas in all their
variations and for extended lengths of time keeps the nervous system clean and clear, thus aiding an uninterrupted flow of energy (prana)
while doing pranayama. If health is a balance between mind, body and spirit, then the practice of yoga postures can help to eradicate
physical ailments and mental distractions, thus clearing the way for the spirit.
2. The Challenge of Pranayama
Y oga as a system is perhaps unusual, if not unique, in that its practice both highlights the problems, mental and physical, that are
hindrances to our progress, at the same time as providing us with the very tools we need to overcome them. The second chapter of the
Yoga Sutras is a practical outline of how, with all of our human frailties and imbalances, we can use yoga to refine our intelligence and move
beyond the self-limiting, habitual illusions and tendencies of everyday life to embrace a more unified understanding of ourselves and our
relationship to the world around us.
But do we actually need to add such a subtle and complex subject as pranayama to our daily routine? Is asana perhaps enough?
The postures in yoga are indeed a means of using our body to discover our inner self. They provide us with the outer frame, the tangible and
visible form, a structure to work with. The mind is more elusive and harder to know. It can deceive us so that we believe what we want to
believe, such as convincing ourselves that this is the best we can or should do.
The body, on the other hand, is like a canvas on which we can express ourselves as we are right now, and on which we can see the results of
our actions. A leg is straight or bent, no question of confusion there; we are balancing or not; we are on our mats or off having coffee. Asana
practice is relatively straight forward and an uncomplicated method for helping us to see who and how we are. Only then is change possible.
Pranayama is harder to grasp and requires another approach. By using the skills of focus, reflection, stillness and refinement that we have
begun to acquire through posture work, pranayama begins the journey inwards, when our minds and emotions can be seen more clearly. It
can never be approached with force or with physical strength. If we use hardness, it slips further away.
It is like a story I once heard of a method used by a teacher of bioenergetics many years ago. He organised a sort of competition between two
business men by connecting them with wires to two model electric trains. The trains were set up in such a way that the more relaxed their
drivers became, the faster their alpha waves would make the carriages go. The more they tried to win in the traditional way, the more the
trains slowed down. The breath is very similar.
Foundations of Pranayama Practice
T he simple essence of pranayama is described in the Yoga Sutras (2.49) as the controlled intake and outflow of breath in a firmly
established posture. Breath regulation is important because when the breath is irregular the mind wavers; when the breath is steady so is
the mind. But the practice of pranayama must be undertaken with caution and respect. The classical text, Hatha Yoga Pradipika says that as
the lion, the elephant and the tiger are tamed gradually, so also the breath has to be tamed, otherwise it can be harmful to the sadhaka
(practitioner).
Normal breathing in our everyday activities is irregular, sometimes described by BKS Iyengar as a zig-zag breath. It moves in different parts
of the lungs at various rhythms according to what we are doing, what position we are in, our mental state, the condition of our lungs and
diaphragm and so on.
But pranayama is more than just deep breathing; a pranayama breath must be regulated, steady, evenly prolonged, channelled and conscious.
Pranayama consists of an intentional, long, sustained and guided inhalation, exhalation and retention (holding of the breath). It not only
enables the body to receive an abundant supply of oxygen, but prolongs and channels this air and energy
throughout, so that the body may savour and fully benefit from the breath in every possible cell. The conscious regulation and expansion of
the breath brings discipline and focus to the mind.
To even begin to observe and know our own normal breath and its patterns takes time and continued practice. Our breathing patterns are
deeply habitual and strongly connected to our emotions. To be able to adjust that breath and transform its rhythm, length and path at will
without tension or struggle and with our bodies tuned and open to cooperate and synchronise with it is an intricate, delicate and challenging
task. BKS Iyengar once said that anyone with less than 12 years of regular pranayama practice was still at the raw beginner stage.
Benefits of Pranayama
I used the word daunting at the beginning of this article. Yet the rewards are great and changes do occur, a long time before the 12-year mark.
Like pranayama itself, the results are subtle, not as obvious as the transformations that can be observed in our bodies through the postures. It
is something that occurs on an almost organic level, outside of our desire for instant gratification.
When I first started pranayama, I just did a very simple form based on becoming aware of the breath and trying to coax the inhalation and
exhalation to be more even in length and quality. I perhaps did 15 minutes a day for about a year. I was not aware of any great difference, but
I practised because the people I was living with all did. At the end of that year I traveled for a few days and didn’t do any pranayama for that
time. Only then did I notice how different I felt without it. It was its absence after a longish period of consistent basic practice that made me
aware of many of its benefits; so simple and quiet were the changes that I had at first not noticed them, yet these initial small
modifications also laid the foundation for other, deeper transformations in the way I felt and thought. In my experience the most profound
benefits of yoga take us by surprise, with time. They are often not the ones we set out to achieve.
The breath connects our inner world with the outer, it brings our core in contact with the universe outside. It is an inbuilt form of giving and
receiving which has an ancient, primordial quality, like the rhythm of the sea. Something always there, something rarely felt or noticed. It is
worth spending some time with, and it is worth preparing ourselves for.
3. If you are beginning to practise in the Iyengar tradition, expect to spend some many months on foundational asanas for the body before you
hear your teacher mention pranayama. However in each class and in every practice you will be learning something useful to prepare for it.
In a subsequent article I will describe some of the more specific postures and techniques we use in our classes for students with a minimum
of one years yoga experience to prepare for pranayama proper.
Pixie Lillas holds a Junior Advanced teaching certificate, is a senior assessor with the Association and is the Director of the Balmain Yoga Studio in
Sydney.