Question
explain the process of pranayama.

Answer

  • Meaning of Pranayama: Pranayama literally means 'the dimension of life means to expand'.
  • Maharshi Patanjali has defined pranayama in the Patanjali Yogasutra as, "Pranayama means to stop the prana by disrupting the motion of breathing."
  • The inhalation of the external air is ‘breathing’ and the exhalation of the internal air is the ‘exhalation’.
  • ‘Pranayama’ literally means prana $+$ ayam $=$ regulation of prana means pranayama.
  • The purpose of pranayama in this way is to stimulate, transmit, regulate and balance the life force in the body.
  • Pranayama is needed for purification of the mind. The life$-$giving prana connects the body and the mind.
  • Therefore the condom of the soul is necessary for the condom of the mind.
  • Pranayama is the regulation of prana in a way that is useful in controlling the mood.
  • By attaining restraint of breath through pranayama, the seeker attains restraint of prana.
  • So that the contraception of the mood becomes easier.
  • In terms of yoga, pranayama is the life force flowing in the breath and the inhibition of prana.
  • Process of Pranayama: Pranayama consists of three processes: $(1)$ Complementary: The process of inhaling outside air through the nose. $(2)$ Intraocular and extrinsic: The process of holding the breath inside or outside the body. And $(3)$ Laxatives: The process of expelling air from the body.
  • Considering these processes, the definition of pranayama is as follows:
  • "Pranayama is the process of supplementing the breath, Kumbhak $($erection$)$ and laxative, which is done specifically to control the instincts of the mind."
  • Pranayama is useful for yoga practice as well as for maintaining physical and mental health.
  • Pranayama calms the restless, melancholy, sad mind and brings a special kind of peace of mind.
  • Pranayama promotes mental and physical well-being by increasing the efficiency of the nervous system and respiratory system.
  • The practice of pranayama destroys the calamities like raga and dwesha that hinder one's conscience and the intellect becomes sattva.
  • There is no penance superior to pranayama.
  • The aptitude of the mind for perception is achieved through pranayama.

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