Pranayama (Breathing Techniques) Glossary

I. What is Pancha Dharana Pranayama? Pancha Dharana Pranayama is a powerful breathing technique that combines the benefits of pranayama (breath control) with the practice of concentration. In Sanskrit, “Pancha” means five, and “Dharana” means concentration. Therefore, Pancha Dharana Pranayama involves focusing on five specific points while controlling the breath. This practice helps to calm … Read more

I. What is Padadhirasana Pranayama? Padadhirasana Pranayama is a breathing exercise that is part of the ancient practice of yoga. It involves sitting in a specific posture and focusing on the breath to calm the mind and body. The word “Padadhirasana” comes from the Sanskrit words “pada” meaning foot, “dhirasana” meaning steady posture, and “pranayama” … Read more

I. What is Aadi Pranayama? Aadi Pranayama is a breathing technique that is rooted in the ancient practice of yoga. The word “Aadi” means “first” or “original” in Sanskrit, and this pranayama technique is believed to be one of the oldest forms of breathing exercises in the yogic tradition. Aadi Pranayama focuses on controlling the … Read more

I. What is Sama Vritti Pranayama? Sama Vritti Pranayama is a breathing technique in yoga that involves equalizing the length of the inhalation and exhalation. In Sanskrit, “sama” means equal, “vritti” means fluctuations, and “pranayama” means breath control. This practice helps to balance the body and mind by calming the nervous system and reducing stress. … Read more

I. What are the Dasa Vayus in Pranayama? In the practice of Pranayama, the ancient yogic tradition of controlling the breath, there are ten vital energy channels known as the Dasa Vayus. These Vayus are responsible for the flow of prana, or life force, throughout the body. Each Vayu governs specific functions and areas of … Read more

I. What is Ajna Chakra Pranayama (Third Eye Breath)? Ajna Chakra Pranayama, also known as Third Eye Breath, is a breathing technique that focuses on activating and balancing the Ajna Chakra, which is located between the eyebrows. The Ajna Chakra is associated with intuition, perception, and insight, and practicing this pranayama can help to enhance … Read more

I. What is Apana Pranayama? Apana Pranayama is a breathing technique that falls under the umbrella of pranayama, or yogic breathing exercises. In Sanskrit, “Apana” refers to the downward energy in the body, specifically related to elimination and cleansing processes. This pranayama practice focuses on regulating and controlling the Apana Vayu, or the energy associated … Read more

I. What is Akasha Pranayama (Ether or Space Breath)? Akasha Pranayama, also known as Ether or Space Breath, is a breathing technique that is rooted in the ancient practice of yoga. In Sanskrit, “Akasha” means ether or space, and “Pranayama” refers to the control and regulation of breath. This particular pranayama technique focuses on connecting … Read more

I. What is Prana Vayu Pranayama? Prana Vayu Pranayama is a specific breathing technique in the practice of yoga that focuses on directing and controlling the flow of prana, or life force energy, within the body. Prana Vayu is one of the five Vayus, or energetic pathways, that govern different functions within the body according … Read more

I. What is Sheetkari Pranayama? Sheetkari Pranayama is a breathing technique in yoga that involves inhaling through the mouth with the tongue rolled up and exhaling through the nose. The word “Sheetkari” is derived from the Sanskrit words “Sheet” meaning cold or soothing and “Kari” meaning creator. This pranayama is known for its cooling and … Read more