The fourth level of Patanjali’s Eightfold Path is pranayama, working with the life force. Yogis recognize the importance of prana (life force) — that which gives us life itself and the ability to be active physically, mentally and emotionally. Explore various types of pranayams which can bring more vital energy into your life.
Pranayama means controlling or working with the life force. A common misunderstanding is that pranayamas are only breathing practices. The yoga focus is on the life force, often using breath techniques as an aid.
One breath practice is the alternate breath. The technique is to focus the attention in the spine while breathing first through one nostril and then the other. The goal is to bring the prana on the left and right sides of the spine into greater harmony, improving respiration and opening the central spine — the corridor of enlightenment. This breath practice also stimulates activity in the spinal chakras (energy centers). At first you may only imagine it. Gradually you begin to notice the actual movement of energy in the spine. Ultimately, yogis discover that bliss lives in the spine.
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You’re invited to explore Yoga World’s meditation talks where you can try many different meditation practices. When you find the technique that best suits you, you’ll more easily experience the peace, courage and compassion of your inner self.
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