Pranayama is a practice that involves the management or control of the breath. The word pranayama is a combination of prana and ayama, which translates as “to extend, expand or draw out.” Some also say that the word is the combination of prana and yama, or “control.” With either translation, you arrive at the same concept: pranayama is a practice that involves the management or control of the breath ¹.
Pranayama is a collection of breathing exercises developed by the ancient yogis for purification, mental focus rejuvenation, and healing. Prana translates into “life force energy,” and Yama translates into “control or mastery of.” Thus, pranayama is a breathing technique used to control, cultivate, and modify the amount, quality, flow, and direction of vital energy in the body ².
According to research, pranayama can promote relaxation and mindfulness ³.
Source: Conversation with Bing, 7/3/2023
(1) Pranayama for Beginners: Learn About the Practice + How to Start. https://www.yogajournal.com/practice/beginners/how-to/pranayama/.
(2) Pranayama Breathing Techniques and Tips - Yoga Basics. https://www.yogabasics.com/practice/pranayama/.
(3) Pranayama Benefits for Physical and Emotional Health. https://www.healthline.com/health/pranayama-benefits.
(4) Pranayama - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pranayama.
