Pranayama yoga, the science of controlling breath is directly related to the effective functioning of body organs. Pranayama induces vertical breathing, which is naturally seen in infants. Pranayama is of four different stages and its benefits can only be attained by regular and proper practice.

Pranayama Yoga – The Art of Controlled Breathing

Pranayama means the control of the vital force, oxygen, which is required for all the metabolic processes. Body gestures is the basic of pranayama yoga. Body gestures include pranava mudra for both the left and the right hand. Generally adults use their chest for horizontal breathing, but when pranayama yoga is practiced, diaphragm is used for vertical breathing. Vertical breathing naturally occurs in infants which eventually changes. Pranayama can be practiced during pregnancy as it relaxes the mind and supplies more oxygen to all the organs. Mukha dhauti is a type of breathing that releases tension and softens the delivery process. Breath control starts at the day of our birth, which only has to be practiced in adulthood.

Pranayama Breathing – Consists of Four Different Stages

There are four stages of pranayama breathing that includes inhalation (Puraka), full pause (Abhyantara kumbhaka), exhalation (Rechaka) and empty pause (Bahya kumbhaka). Inhalation is the process where one draws in air in a smooth and a continuous way through either or the left nostril. Full pause is the process where one holds the breath in the lungs without any incipient moves for a stipulated time. This stage may be a little difficult for the beginners. Exhalation involves the relaxation of tensed muscles that was caused during inhaltion. In exhalation also, the air should be let out smoothly and continously similar to inhaltion. Empty pause is the last stage of pranayama breathing, which completes that particular breathing cycle and then the new cycle begins.

Pranayama Benefits – Attained by Regular Practice

Adults unknowingly breathe from their chest using only a part of the lungs, this unhealthy practice do not supply the much required oxygen for the system. Pranayama benefits these adults by increasing the lung capacity to bring in more oxygen for the body. Toxins in the body can be easily eliminated by pranayama. All the meatabolic process improves with increased supply of oxygen. It de-stresses and improves our concentration and focus. As it de-stresses, it relaxes the body and offers us a better self control. It improves our decision making skills and decreases our anger as our mind is relaxed and controlled. All these benefits can be acquired only by proper guidance and regular practice.