To change something we must alter the energy which creates it. This fact is true in the practice of Yoga. To bring about positive changes in the body and mind we must understand the energy through which they work. This is called ‘Prana’ in Sanskrit, meaning primary energy. It is sometimes translated as breath or vital force though it’s much more than that.
In Yoga the concept of ‘prana’ is very scientific. When we speak of prana we do not mean breath, air or oxygen. Precisely and scientifically speaking prana means the original life force.
Prana is constructed of the syllables ‘pra’ and ‘an’. ‘An’, means movement and ‘pra’ is a prefix meaning constant. Therefore prana means constant motion. This constant motion commences in the human body as soon as he is conceived in the mother’s womb. It is therefore a type of energy responsible for the body’s life, heat and maintenance.
Prana energy is the very essence that keeps us alive. Strong, free flowing, prana is vital for our good health. The quality of everything we do including breathing, eating, moving, feeling, thinking, playing, working, communicating etc. –all depends on how we manage our lives and our energy.
The importance of prana cannot be emphasized enough. It is essential in helping us maintain a healthy mind, body and spirit.
Thus we need to ensure that this life force is correctly channelized so that it flows effortlessly and smoothly through the thousands of energy channels in our body called ‘nadis’ and energy centres called ‘chakras’. The quality and quantity of Prana and the way it flows through the nadis and chakras determines one’s state of mind.
‘Pranayama’ is the control of prana through the breath!
So, when you see people sitting cross legged and practicing slow mindful breathing, remember that they are adding quality and years to their life, sometimes even more than the practice of asanas or physical postures! It’s almost like charging oneself so much that one stays in a constant healthy state of joy !
How to practice Pranayama?
Let’s find out next week!
Namaste!
