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Pranayama is the fourth limb of the eight limbs (or stages) of Yoga, It is the rhythmic control of the breath. It is the science of the breath, the wheel around which life revolves. When we break the word Pranayama down, we can interpret it as
prana which means breath, life, energy, and strength
and
ayama which means length, expansion, stretching, restraint
Our state of mind is closely linked to our prana. With this realization, it allows us to practice pranayama to make the connection between our mind and breath, therefore letting the prana flow freely throughout ourselves.
Putting it all together, what we are doing when practicing pranayama is extending the breath and expanding our life vitality and life force energy. There are three parts that any of the pranayama techniques have in common. On the inhalation (inspiration), also called puraka, we are filling up or taking in. On the exhalation (expiration), also called recaka, we are emptying. The point between the inhalation and exhalation is called the kumbaka. It is the resting point between the breath, the gateway to the inner soul. The kumbaka is the point where we hold or stop the breath. It can be used following the puraka and recaka to increase the effect or length of inhalation or exhalation.
The practice of pranayama brings a calmness and centerness to ourselves and our practice. The great thing about doing pranayama is that we can do it anywhere, not just in our yoga practice. This could be when sitting in traffic, at a meeting in the office, riding the train, walking. Anytime or place that you are breathing you can practice it and reap the benefits!
When first starting a pranayama practice, the natural breath-flow will guide you to find the appropriate length of time the breath should be experienced on the inhale, kumbaka, and exhale. If you have heart problems or irregularities consult your physician before doing pranayama. It is quite common to experience a slight dizziness when starting pranayama practice. This is normal, but if it continues stop immediately and rest.
