Pranayama is the art of breath control. It is a Sanskrit word that means the lengthening of one’s breath. The word prana translates into life force (breath) and yama means the elongating of something. Pranayama is used in yoga and meditation practices. There are four stages of breathing in Pranayama: inhalation, pause before exhalation, exhalation, and lastly, a pause before inhaling again. Many people develop a habit of shallow breathing. Pranayama is deep, focused breathing.
It has been reported that pranayama techniques are beneficial in treating a range of
stress related disorders, improving circulation, autonomic and organ function, as well as increasing mental clarity.
~ Kristen Kancler
