The Breath of Life - Dr. Krishna Raman

Pranayama, the science of breath

control, stabilizes body and mind.

The word pranayama can be split into prana and ayama. It is difficult to describe prana. It is physical, mental, spiritual and cosmic energy. All forms of energy are prana.

Prana is usually translated as breath, which moves in the thoracic region and absorbs vital energy; yet, this is only one of its many manifestations in the body. Ayama means control. So pranayama is the science of breath control.

It is a deliberate technique of inhalation, retention of breath, exhalation and the suspension of breath in exhalation. The movements of the thoracic organs include vertical ascension, horizontal expansion and a circumferential movement.

Pranayama is, apart from the physiological connotation of harmony of breath, a psychosomatic science. It is well known that the psyche affects the soma and vice versa – the classical example being that of stress induced peptic ulcers. Judicious use of the psyche produces a healthy soma. In pranayama, the mind and consciousness is withdrawn deep inside to the core of the being. This stabilizes and optimizes all functions of the body.

Only in this quietude can energy levels of the body be harmonized. The five elements, the organs of perception, and the organs of action are coordinated. This actually means prevention and removal of disease.

Tenable Logic. Pranayama must be practiced only after a certain mastery in asanas, the science of posture, has been achieved. This ensures healthy elasticity of all the organs and respiratory muscles which make pranayamic breathing easier and more precise. Medically, this logic is tenable.

Patanjali has stated that "pranayama is the regulation of the incoming and outgoing flow of breath with retention. It is to be practiced only after perfection in asanas is attained." Nowadays it is common to see many yogic schools imparting pranayamic training to beginners. This should be avoided.

© "Tattvaloka" (December, 2001) published by Sri Abhinava Vidyatheertha Mahaswamigal Education Trust, Abhinav Centre, # 4 (Old # 19), Co-operative Colony, Chennai 600 018. Website: www.tattvaloka.com. Reprinted with permission.

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