What is Pranayama?

The term Pranayama has been coined from two Sanskrit words Prana means life
force and Ayama means control. Hence, in its broadest description, Prananyama
would mean the control of the flow of life force. It is both the science and art of
breath control and nadi purification. There are different breathing techniques that
essentially work on three main things: regulation of breath, control of vital force and
chanalisation of the Pranas (vital body force) in the right directions. Pranayama
purifies the channels along which the life stream of prana flows and helps to prevent
and even cure a variety of physical and mental ailments. It also increases ones
overall immunity and resistance to disease.

General cautions and contra-indications for Pranayama

The breathing techniques of Pranayama essentially be first learned under the

supervision of an experienced teacher.
2. If you feel any kind of discomfort or symptom such as dizziness or nausea
arising as you practicing breathing, lie down and relax in Savasana or the
Child Pose for a few recovery breaths. If discomfort persists, do not continue
your practice until you get advice regarding your symptoms.

Simple breathing techniques can be used at he start of a session to help calm

and focus the mind and body. The practice of Pranayama is highly
recommended before relaxation and meditation at the end or a session