Exhaling results in death, whereas inhaling gives life
Exhalation is Samadhi, or emancipation, whereas inhalation is attachment.
Stress is exhaled while relaxation is inhaled.
When we die, we exhale, and when we are born, we begin by inhaling.
Exhaling is Shiva, and inhaling is Shakti
Exhaling is freedom; inhaling is servitude.
Male energy is exhalation while Female energy is inhalation You become aware of your body and spiritual things when you inhale, and you become conscious of your awareness when you exhale.
Inhalation and exhalation are like the two sides of the same coin. We require both. But which is more crucial—inhaling or exhaling—for a mediator, an interior traveler, or a person who is making constant efforts for release and everlasting peace? Definitely exhalation.
Exhale, then become a master of yoga and meditation.
Don't forget to pay attention to your exhale going forward
Exhalation is the key to effective meditation.
To enter a deep level of meditation, extend your exhalation. Ensure sure your exhale is smooth, with no pauses, noise, or jerks. Put in the work. Sacrifice your life for it and take the Guru's teachings at face value. You will undoubtedly achieve Samadhi, a state of effortlessness.
We welcome you to RISHIKUL YOGSHALA where we embrace the ancient practice of yoga and the rich culture that surrounds it. Step into our yoga sanctuary and immerse yourself in a journey of self-discovery and inner peace. we invite you to join our Yoga Teacher training, where you can learn from experienced teachers, connect with like-minded individuals, and explore the beauty of this ancient practice. At RISHIKUL YOGSHALA, we believe that the practice of yoga extends beyond the mat and into our daily lives. We look forward to sharing this transformative experience with you Come and Experience the magic of yoga and the vibrant culture that surrounds RISHIKUL YOGSHALA. Leave feeling rejuvenated and inspired.
Breathing with diaphragmatic breathing, also known as "belly breathing" or "deep
breathing," is essential while practicing yoga asanas for several important reasons:
Remember that diaphragmatic breathing is a skill that may take time to develop. With practice, it becomes a natural and integral part of your yoga asana practice, enhancing your overall experience and benefitting both your physical and mental well-being.
Breathing with diaphragmatic breathing, also known as "belly breathing" or "deep breathing," is essential while practicing yoga asanas for several important reasons:
To incorporate diaphragmatic breathing into your yoga asana practice, follow these steps:
Remember that diaphragmatic breathing is a skill that may take time to develop. With practice, it becomes a natural and integral part of your yoga asana practice, enhancing your overall experience and benefitting both your physical and mental well-being.
Breath, the very essence of life, plays a vital role in yoga practices. Among the many facets of yogic breathing, one stands out for its transformative power - Kumbhaka. This ancient technique involves the suspension of breath, and it has been a cornerstone of pranayama (breath control) practices for centuries. In this blog, we will explore Kumbhaka, who can benefit from it, its advantages and disadvantages, and the profound transformation it can bring to your life.
Kumbhaka, also known as breath retention or breath suspension, is a pranayama technique where one intentionally pauses the breath after inhalation (Antar Kumbhaka) or after exhalation (Bahya Kumbhaka). The word "Kumbhaka" originates from the Sanskrit words "kumbha" (pot) and "aka" (filled), symbolizing the holding of the breath within the body, much like a pot filled with water.
Practicing Kumbhaka is not recommended for absolute beginners in yoga or pranayama. To embark on the journey of breath retention, one should have a solid foundation in the following areas:
Like any yogic practice, Kumbhaka has its advantages and potential challenges Let's explore both sides:
Kumbhaka holds the potential to catalyze a deep transformation in various aspects of your life. Here's how:
If you're inspired to explore Kumbhaka, it's essential to proceed mindfully and safely. Here are some guidelines:
Kumbhaka is a potent yogic technique that offers profound physical, mental, and spiritual transformation. While it holds immense potential for growth and self-discovery, it should be approached with care, awareness, and respect for your body's limitations. By cultivating the necessary foundations, seeking guidance from experienced teachers, and practicing mindfully, you can harness the power of Kumbhaka to deepen your yoga journey and experience the breath of transformation in your life.
In the rhythmic tapestry of life, breath is the thread that connects us to the universe. This thread, when consciously woven through the practice of pranayama, becomes a bridge to inner harmony and vitality. Join us on a journey of breath exploration as we delve into the art of pranayama, understanding its essence from the breath of a baby to that of a yogi. Discover how pranayama can transform your existence and open the doors to a more profound connection with yourself and the world around you.
In the dance of life's first moments, the breath of a baby is a symphony of purity. Uninhibited, unadulterated, each inhalation and exhalation is an expression of innocence and connection. As we evolve, we often lose touch with this natural rhythm. Yet, the yogi, through pranayama, seeks to rekindle this innate connection, to experience the breath as a bridge between the physical and spiritual realms.
Breath is not just a mechanical function; it's a sacred dance between life and the cosmos. It's a silent storyteller of our emotions, the rhythm of our thoughts, and the conductor of our energy. Through pranayama, we learn to listen to this whisper of life, to attune ourselves to its subtleties, and to wield it as a tool for holistic well-being.
In the symposium of breath, two distinct players emerge: chest breathing and diaphragmatic breathing. Chest breathing, shallow and confined to the upper chest, often accompanies stress and anxiety. Diaphragmatic breathing, on the other hand, engages the diaphragm, allowing the belly to expand and contract, inviting a calm and grounded state. Pranayama introduces us to the art of transitioning from erratic chest breaths to the profound rhythm of diaphragmatic breathing.
Imagine a bird confined within a cage – such is the analogy of chest breathing. In this restricted mode, the breath becomes a mere transaction of air, and the energy within is stifled. Pranayama awakens us to the consequences of this shallow breath, urging us to break free from the cage and embrace the expansiveness of diaphragmatic breathing. As the chest opens, so does the heart, allowing the breath to dance freely through every fiber of our being.
Diaphragmatic breathing is a portal to presence. It's a reminder to be here, now, fully immersed in the moment. As we learn to engage the diaphragm, we encourage the release of physical tension and emotional baggage. The belly becomes a canvas that captures the ebb and flow of life's currents. With each inhale, we invite vitality; with each exhale, we release that which no longer serves us. Through pranayama, we learn that life is a series of inhales and exhales, beginnings and endings, and that in this rhythm, we find equilibrium.
As we conclude this journey into the profound realm of pranayama, we extend a heartfelt invitation to experience its magic at Rishikul Yogshala. Nestled in the tranquil embrace of Rishikesh, our Yogshala offers a sanctuary to those seeking to deepen their connection with breath and life. With experienced teachers as your guides, you'll traverse the realms of pranayama, unlocking the secrets of breath control and inviting transformative energy into your existence.
In a world that often propels us into a whirlwind of responsibilities and distractions, pranayama is an anchor that tethers us to the present moment. It's an invitation to inhale the beauty of life and exhale that which weighs us down. As you stand on the cusp of your own journey into the world of pranayama, we invite you to join us at Rishikul Yogshala. Let the gentle guidance of pranayama lead you towards a life brimming with vitality, peace, and a profound connection with the universe. The adventure awaits – take the first breath and step onto the path of self-discovery and transformation.
Building on the foundation of a genuine interest in exploring breath from within, we can then begin to work with the irregularities of the breath. Mind-related anomalies: The connection between the body, breath, and mind. The mind is the source of any jerks, pauses, shallowness, or noisiness in the breath. The body and breath cannot function without guidance from the mind. Therefore, if the breath is erratic, the mind's erratic states are to blame.
"To be aware of and eliminate jerks, pauses, shallowness, and noise is a most important practice."
Nevertheless, you may intentionally control your breathing to eliminate these abnormalities. The major irregularities of breath are:
Working with the breath has a positive impact on the mind:The wonderful thing is that if you get rid of the abnormalities in the physical breath, it also has a really positive impact on the mind. The mind follows suit and follows along with the breath, becoming smooth, continuous (without stops), leisurely, and quiet. The body follows along and unwinds much more effortlessly.
The ancient practice of pranayama, a core component of yoga, involves the conscious control of breath to enhance physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. While pranayama offers a multitude of benefits, one of its remarkable aspects is its profound influence on the digestive and immune systems. In this blog, we'll explore how pranayama practices establish a vital connection to these two systems, ultimately contributing to overall health and vitality.
Before we delve into the impact of pranayama on the digestive system, let's briefly review its primary functions:
A healthy digestive system is essential for nutrient absorption, energy production, and overall vitality.
The Role of Pranayama in Digestive Health Pranayama, often referred to as "breath control" in yoga, encompasses various techniques that regulate and optimize the breath. When practiced mindfully, pranayama can significantly impact the digestive system:
The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend the body against harmful pathogens, such as viruses, bacteria, and toxins. A strong immune system is essential for preventing illnesses and maintaining overall health.
Pranayama practices have a profound impact on the immune system, primarily through the following mechanisms:
Now that we understand how pranayama impacts the digestive and immune systems, let's explore some specific techniques that can be incorporated into your practice:
To harness the benefits of pranayama for your digestive and immune systems, consider these practical tips:
In our fast-paced world, where stress and distractions abound, we often forget to focus on the most fundamental aspect of our existence: our breath. Breathing is not just an automatic bodily function; it's a powerful tool that can influence our physical and mental well-being. In the ancient practice of yoga, there's a discipline known as Pranayama, which involves harnessing the breath to regulate the subtle life currents within our bodies. In this blog, we'll explore the art of Pranayama in simple terms, demystifying this practice and shedding light on how it can bring balance and vitality to your life.
Before we dive into the world of Pranayama, let's grasp the concept of "Prana." In
Sanskrit, "Prana" translates to vital life force or energy. It's the invisible force that
animates our bodies and keeps us alive. Think of Prana as the hidden engine that
powers all life processes, from our physical functions to our mental and emotional
states.
Pranayama is a Sanskrit term that consists of two words: "Prana" (life force) and "Ayama" (control or regulation). Therefore, Pranayama is the art of controlling and regulating your breath to influence the flow of Prana within your body. It's like tapping into the power source that fuels your being.
Your breath serves as the bridge between your physical body and the subtle energy of Prana. When you breathe mindfully and with intention, you're not just inhaling oxygen; you're also drawing in Prana. Conversely, when you're stressed or anxious, your breath becomes shallow and erratic, disrupting the flow of Prana and leading to physical and mental imbalances.
Pranayama offers a multitude of benefits, and you don't need to be a seasoned yogi to experience them. Here's a breakdown of how this ancient practice can positively impact your life:
Pranayama is a potent stress-buster. When you engage in deep, controlled breathing, it triggers your body's relaxation response. This leads to a reduction in the production of stress hormones, a drop in blood pressure, and a profound sense of calm and well-being.
Many Pranayama exercises involve deep, intentional breaths. This helps enhance your lung capacity, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with respiratory issues like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Consistent Pranayama practice oxygenates your brain, promoting mental focus and clarity. It's like giving your brain a refreshing boost of energy, sharpening your cognitive functions.
Pranayama serves as a powerful tool for regulating emotions. By controlling your breath, you can calm your mind, reduce anxiety, and manage emotional fluctuations. It's an effective way to achieve emotional stability.
Pranayama revitalizes your body by infusing it with Prana. As a result, you may experience increased vitality and higher energy levels. It's like a natural energy booster that doesn't involve caffeine or sugar.
Certain Pranayama practices, especially those designed for relaxation, can significantly improve the quality of your sleep. Engaging in deep, rhythmic breathing before bedtime calms your nervous system, setting the stage for a restful night's sleep.
You don't need to carve out hours of your day for Pranayama practice. Here are some practical tips for integrating it into your daily routine:
If you're new to Pranayama, begin with simple techniques like deep abdominal breathing. As you become more comfortable, you can explore other practices.
Designate a specific time each day for your Pranayama practice. It could be in the morning to energize your day or in the evening to wind down and relax.
Even just a few minutes of daily practice can yield significant benefits over time. Make Pranayama a consistent part of your routine.
During your Pranayama practice, focus your attention on your breath. If your mind wanders, gently bring it back to your breath. This mindfulness enhances the calming effects of Pranayama.
If you're unsure about which Pranayama techniques are suitable for you or how to get started, consider seeking guidance from a qualified yoga instructor or practitioner
In conclusion, Pranayama is a simple yet profound practice that can positively impact your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. By harnessing the power of your breath to regulate the flow of Prana within your body, you can reduce stress, improve lung capacity, enhance mental clarity, balance your emotions, increase your energy levels, and enjoy better sleep. Pranayama is a universal tool available to everyone, regardless of age or fitness level, and it can be seamlessly integrated into your daily routine. So, take a deep breath, explore the world of Pranayama, and let it become a source of balance and vitality in your life.
In the art of yoga, the breath is not just an involuntary action; it's a pathway to transformation. The practice of pranayama – the science of breath control – opens the door to a world where the rhythm of inhalation and exhalation becomes a symphony of equilibrium. Join us as we embark on a journey to explore the diverse panorama of pranayama techniques, uncovering their unique melodies and the profound impact they have on body, mind, and soul. Discover the transformative power of pranayama and find your center amidst life's tumultuous rhythms.
As we venture into the realm of pranayama, Kapalbhati takes the spotlight. Known as the "skull shining" breath, Kapalbhati is a fiery technique that ignites the internal furnace. With each forceful exhalation, stagnant energy is expelled, paving the way for clarity and vitality. Just as a spark ignites a bonfire, Kapalbhati enkindles the inner flame, infusing practitioners with renewed energy and invigorated focus.
Imagine a blacksmith's bellows – the inhales and exhales of Bhastrika mirror this rhythmic process of stoking the fire. This dynamic pranayama technique floods the body with oxygen, invigorating every cell and awakening the life force within. As the breath balances and vital energy harmonizes, practitioners experience a newfound sense of balance and vitality, akin to a harmonious dance of the elements within
In the scorching heat of existence, Shitali pranayama emerges as a refreshing oasis. Through the act of drawing air across the tongue, this technique cools both body and mind, invoking a sense of tranquility. Just as a gentle breeze sweeps away the heat of the day, Shitali breath soothes the senses, restoring a sense of calm amidst life's fervor
Sheetkari pranayama is a reminder that peace resides within even in the midst of chaos. As the breath is drawn in through the teeth, a gentle hissing sound emerges. This auditory element serves as a focal point, drawing the mind away from distractions and into the present moment. Like the lullaby of nature, Sheetkari lulls the mind into a state of serenity, allowing practitioners to rediscover their center
Imagine the gentle whisper of waves caressing the shore – Ujjayi pranayama echoes this rhythm. As the breath is channeled through the back of the throat, a soothing sound reminiscent of the ocean emerges. Ujjayi breath anchors practitioners in the present, inviting a meditative state that embraces both tranquility and focus. Just as the tides are eternal, Ujjayi breath becomes a constant companion on the voyage within.
In the heart of pranayama lies Bhramari – the "bee breath." As the breath is exhaled while producing a humming sound, a deep resonance reverberates within. This vibrational technique echoes the hum of the universe itself, reminding practitioners of their interconnectedness with all life. Bhramari pranayama is a song of surrender, guiding individuals towards stillness, self-awareness, and unity.
As we conclude this exploration of pranayama's symphony, we extend an invitation to experience its harmonious melodies at Rishikul Yogshala. Nestled in the serene embrace of Rishikesh, our Yogshala provides a sanctuary for those seeking to deepen their pranayama practice. With experienced instructors as your guides, you'll embark on a journey that harmonizes body, breath, and spirit, unlocking the transformative potential of pranayama.
In a world that often pulls us into dissonance, pranayama is the conductor that orchestrates harmony within. It's an invitation to breathe consciously, to infuse each breath with intention, and to reconnect with the rhythm of life. As you stand on the threshold of your own pranayama journey, we invite you to join us at Rishikul Yogshala. Let the gentle guidance of pranayama lead you toward a life filled with balance, vitality, and a profound connection to the universe. The melody of transformation awaits – inhale, exhale, and step into a world of inner symphony.
In our hectic lives, it's easy to overlook the importance of something as fundamental as our breath. Yet, in the ancient practice of yoga, the breath is considered the bridge between body and mind, a powerful tool for enhancing physical and mental well-being. Pranayama, the regulation of breath or life force (prana), is a key aspect of yoga that can have profound benefits for those who practice it regularly. In this blog, we will explore Pranayama in simple language and understand how it can help us lead healthier and more balanced lives.
Pranayama is a Sanskrit term that can be broken down into two parts: "prana,"
which means life force or vital energy, and "ayama," which means control or
regulation. Therefore, Pranayama refers to the practice of controlling and
regulating the breath to harness and optimize our life energy.
In yoga philosophy, prana is believed to flow through subtle energy channels
(nadis) in the body. By working with the breath, we can influence this life force
and promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
The practice of Pranayama offers a range of benefits that extend well beyond improving your lung capacity. Here's how incorporating Pranayama into your daily life can enhance your overall well-being:
Now that we understand the benefits, let's explore some straightforward Pranayama techniques that you can incorporate into your daily routine:
To make Pranayama a part of your daily life, consider the following tips:
Pranayama, the regulation of breath and life force, offers a simple yet powerful way to enhance your physical and mental well-being. By incorporating Pranayama techniques into your daily routine, you can reduce stress, improve respiratory health, enhance mental clarity, and cultivate emotional balance. In a world filled with distractions and demands, Pranayama offers a path to better health and greater inner harmony, one breath at a time.
Diaphragmatic breathing is pranayama preparation for the yogic breathing, which is the highest form of breathing pattern. It is said that the yogis and newly born babies they do naturally diaphragmatic breathing.
Due to this quality, babies are very happy,
energetic, and observant; experience good deep
sleep, good digestion, the power of attraction and
the power of let go.
In the modern age people are ignorant and
have forgotten the correct way of breathing and
have adopted the wrong pattern of breathing -
Called “The Chest Breathing” (Detail
description is given below in the book). It has a
huge negative impact on our health. Oxygen
does not reach properly to the lungs which
results into low lung capacity. Due to this chest
breathing the natural process of respiration is
being affected and this causes many physical
diseases such as Circulatory problem,
Digestion problem, Asthma, Low/High Blood
pressure, tiredness and stiffness etc.
Your breath is like a barometer that registers both your mental conditions and physical conditions. Breath is the bridge between the body and your thinking process called mind. What is your body? That something which you can touch, grab, understand is called your body. Who connects you with your thinking being? How do the thinking self and physical self function together? There is a link between the two and that is called prana in Sanskrit. In English we call it breath.
This breath of ours creates a bridge between our thinking process and body.
Inhalation and exhalation are constantly guarding the city of life. Inhalation will become impossible if you do not exhale. Exhalation will become impossible if you do not inhale.
Your mind and your breath are two great friends, inseparable friends, they work together. Therefore, when you train your breath, your mind is being trained.
To bring the mind under your conscious control means to train your breath which you can easily do. You can easily control that mind which is called roving mind, and once you are able to do that, you’ll have faith in your practices, you’ll have confidence and then you’ll go beyond. For that, a little bit more effort is required, but nothing is impossible.
Building on the foundation of a genuine interest in exploring breath from within, we can then begin to work with the irregularities of the breath.
The biggest single problem in learning proper diaphragmatic breathing is inknowing where the diaphragm is located.
Improves the efficiency of transfer of oxygen and carbon dioxide between blood and the inspired air in the lungs
Reduces heart rate and load on the heart
Diaphragmatic breathing increases the suction pressure in the chest cavity, thus improving the venous flow returning to the heart. This reduces the load on the heart and improves thecirculation.
Improves coronary circulation
Lowers blood pressure
Increases volume inhaled with each breath and reduces thebreaths/minute (respiration rate)
Massages abdominal organs
Stimulates lymphatic circulation
Reduces sympathetic tone and increases parasympathetic tone
Body becomes relaxed, mind becomes calm and fatigue is reduced
Diaphragmatic breathing is very therapeutic for anxiety states and restoring emotional balance. Chest breathing is a part of the fight – flight syndrome which is evinced when danger is perceived or when there is stress. As there is reciprocity between breath and mind, chest breathing is associated with increase of sympathetic tone and anxiety. With diaphragmatic breathing, parasympathetic tone isincreased producing a relaxed body and calm mind
Prana is the sum total of all energy that is manifest in the universe. It is thesum total of all the forces in nature. It is force on every plane of being, from the highest to the lowest. Whatever moves or works or has life, is but an expression or manifestation of Prana. Akasa or ether also is an expression of Prana.
Prana is the universal sea of energy that infuses and vitalizes all matter. This sea of energy coalesces into sub-atomic particles and atoms, which become thebasic building blocks of all matter manifesting the physical world. So, every atom, molecule, and cell is an extension of prana, just as waves are extensions of the sea that lies beneath them
Prana is also the power that flows in all living forms and performs vital functions. We have a subtle or astral body made up of prana that underlies the physical body. Oriental healing techniques, such as Ayurveda and acupuncture, work to harmonize and strengthen the flow of life-force, calling it variously prana, chi, or ki. When the life-force flows properly, the result willbe a natural state of health and vitality
Prana is also used to refer to the breath. When we take a physical breath, there is a corresponding movement of prana in the subtle or astral spine. Prana flowsup in the subtle spine in conjunction with the inhalation, and down with the exhalation.
This link between breath and the flow of prana is central to many of the techniques of meditation.
There is an exercise through which we can very clearly feel Prana in the hands:
<Prana is distributed throughout the whole body, through the network of the Nadis (nerves). There are 72,000 Nadis in the human body. Of these, there are three Nadis of particular importance
Kosha Means “Dimensions, Sheaths or Layers” and Maya means “Filled With”.
We are filled with 5 Koshas or dimensions within us. We always live in any ofthe 5 Koshas every day.
Example: While driving a vehicle, we need a coordinated effort. Applying thebrake, clutch and managing the gear along with the acceleration or deceleration needs the functions of multiple Koshas in tandem.
There are five types of Koshas or dimensions which we oscillate within everyday:
(For detail information on Panch Kosha, Please refer the Philosophybook)
Pranamaya Kosha (the life force) is the Pranic sheath composed of Prana, thevital principle or the force that holds together the body and the mind.
Its physical manifestation is the breath. As long as this vital principle exists in the organisms, life continues.
This Prana is a part of cosmic life. Each and every creature, each and every thing in this world is a part of cosmic life. Prana is the force or energy for all kinds of motion. It is not only in human beings, animals, herbs or trees, not only in oceans and mountains, minerals and bacteria. The tiniest part of an atom has Prana. This Prana is both visible and invisible.
The collection of five Pranas is like the working of a machine. The key to health and well- being is to keep our Pranas in harmony.
Generally Prana and Udana, which are the forces of energization, work opposite to Apana, the force of elimination. Similarly Vyana as expansion actsopposite to Samana in contraction.
As we practice Yoga, the subtle aspects of these Pranas begin to awaken.
Physical Prana is life-energy acting in support of the physical body in variousfunctions such as digestion, assimilation, etc
Psychic Prana is the life-energy acting in support of the mind. Every fiber ofmentality is pervaded by psychic Prana
The Sanskrit word kapal means 'cranium' or 'forehead' and bhati means 'light' or 'splendor' and also 'perception or 'knowledge'. Hence Kapalbhatiis the practice which brings a state of light or clarity to the frontal region of thebrain.
Kapalbhati should be practiced after asanas or neti and immediately before any meditation techniques. It may be performed at any time of day but should only be practiced on an empty stomach, 3 to 4 hours after meals.
If pain or dizziness is experienced, stop the practice and sit quietly for some time. When the sensation has passed, recommence the practice with more awareness and less force. If the problem continues, consult a yoga teacher.
Kapalbhati should not be practiced by those suffering from heart disease, high blood pressure, vertigo, epilepsy, stroke, hernia or gastric ulcer.
Kapalbhati is similar to Bhastrika, there are important differences. Bhastrika uses force on both inhalation and exhalation, expanding and contracting the lungs above and below their resting or basic volume. Kapalbhati, on the other hand, actively reduces the volume of air in the lungs below this level through forced exhalation. In this practice, inhalation remains a passive process which brings the level of air in the lungs back to the basic volume only. This way of breathing reverses the normal breathing process which involves active inhalation and passive exhalation.
The Science Behind Asanas: Understanding the Mechanism of Yoga Postures