Pranayama is the regulation of our life force i.e. the energy that flows as breath in all human beings.
WHAT IS PRANAYAMA?
Pranayama is the fourth anga or limb of Yoga, more of a way of lifestyle rather than just a simple exercise. Pranayama refers to the expansion/extension ( aayama) of the life giving breath force i.e. prana.
WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF PRANAYAMA?
There are several different types of pranayama. Certain pranayamas like Bhastrika are energy boosting that fire up the nervous system. Pranayamas like Bhramari calm down the nerves & produce relaxation. Certain other pranayamas like Kapalbhati create a detoxifying effect on the body. Pranayama affects different layers of the body.
WHAT EFFECTS DOES PRANAYAMA HAVE ON BODY?
Pranayama affects different organs & their functions, regulating the energy flow in our body
It has a strong beneficial effect on cognitive functions, mood imbalances
Pranayama is proven to reduce hypertension
It improves digestive functions, boost immunity
Reduces anxiety, stress & depression, improves sleep quality, reduces insomnia
Improves the functioning of the heart, regulate the work of the kidneys
WHAT EFFECT DOES PRANAYAMA HAVE ON THE LUNGS?
Pranayama consists of certain breathing manoeuvres which improve lung functions
In asthmatics it boosts immunity against allergens, reduces hyper responsiveness
In Obstructive diseases like COPD, it improves controlled exhalation which helps reduce air trapping, improving volume, lung capacity & reducing breathlessness
In Restrictive diseases like ILD, it helps lessen the inflammation in the lungs, thereby reducing scarring. Gentle breathing improves lung capacity, volumes, reducing breathlessness
In case of mucus in lungs, certain vibratory pranayamas can help in mucus clearance
Pranayamas with humming have a vibration effect on the sinuses in the skull, thereby protecting them from getting inflamed
Practising pranayama helps control the muscles of respiration more effectively, enhancing their functions