Anuloma Pranayama

There are several definitions for Pranayama, the 4th of eight limbs of Raja Yoga, but the simplest and most useful for our purpose here is "control of the life force." To control this life force, we first control the breath, which in turn controls the mind. It is in part common sense for us, as when someone is overwhelmed by stress and can not think clearly we tell them take deep breaths to help them focus. There is also a science behind this, both in modern western and yogic terms.

For years now I've enjoyed Pranayama on a mostly daily basis. It once helped me to quit smoking, possibly forming a new neural imprint upon what was an oral fixation. It has at times been my preparation for meditation, and at others, it has been the meditation itself. If you can find the right method, you may feel a sense of harmony reaching down to the subtlest vibrations of being, and in time you cultivate balance and peace of all faculties. There are many methods, but here I will share only my favorite, which you will find in a link at the end of this blog.

"Expansion of individual energy into cosmic energy is called prāṇāyāma (prāṇa, energy + ayām, expansion)." -Ramamurti Mishra

"Prana is a subtle invisible force. It is the life-force that pervades the body. It is the factor that connects the body and the mind, because it is connected on one side with the body and on the other side with the mind. It is the connecting link between the body and the mind. The body and the mind have no direct connection. They are connected through Prana only and this Prana is different from the breathing you have in your physical body." -Swami Chidananda Saraswati

"Yoga works primarily with the energy in the body, through the science of pranayama, or energy-control. Prana means also ‘breath.’ Yoga teaches how, through breath-control, to still the mind and attain higher states of awareness. The higher teachings of yoga take one beyond techniques, and show the yogi, or yoga practitioner, how to direct his concentration in such a way as not only to harmonize human with divine consciousness, but to merge his consciousness in the Infinite." -Paramahansa Yogananda

Medical claims, according to Wikipedia:

"Several researchers have reported that pranayama techniques are beneficial in treating a range of stress related disorders, improving autonomic functions, relieving symptoms of asthma, and reducing signs of oxidative stress. Practitioners report that the practice of pranayama develops a steady mind, strong will-power, and sound judgement, and also claim that sustained pranayama practice extends life and enhances perception."

Further Explanation and instructions found here: http://www.abc-of-yoga.com/pranayama/basic/viloma.asp

Love,
Rev. MoonPie