Pranayama allows you to embark on a journey within as you embrace the power of breath. Elevate your well-being through the ancient practice of pranayama.
We move our body in the asana practice, the third limb of yoga and we move our breath with pranayama, which is the fourth limb of yoga. Together these two actions help steady the mind and relax our body and prepare us for the last four limbs of yoga.
Prana is the vital life force that runs through our body and keeps us alive. It is in all living beings. When we practice pranayama it can be as simple as taking a moment to take one deep clarifying breath and exhaling fully, or it can be a series of breaths for a few minutes that helps us still our mind and our body.
This article offers a beautiful insight into the practice of pranayama and highlights the benefits of focused breathing, which includes reducing anxiety and calming the nervous system.
I have created a short video (below) that takes you through one simple breath practice, Sama Vritti or Box Breathing. In the video you will inhale for a count of 3, 4 or 5 – then pause, you can pause for the same count or shorter, what ever is most comfortable for you, then exhale for the same count as your inhale and then pause again.
For additional pranayama techniques, check out this article.
By centering the body, the mind and the breath we can bring stillness and relaxation into our lives. As we prepare for the end of the year and a busy holiday season, practicing pranayama can be an amazing centering tool and a beautiful gift you can give yourself.
KathyGorohoff.com 