Pranayama (Breathing Techniques) Glossary

I. What is Kundalini Pranayama? Kundalini Pranayama is a powerful breathing technique that is part of the ancient practice of Kundalini yoga. Pranayama, which translates to “control of breath,” is a fundamental aspect of yoga that focuses on regulating the breath to promote physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Kundalini Pranayama specifically targets the activation of … Read more

I. What is Vyana Vayu Pranayama? Vyana Vayu Pranayama is a breathing technique that falls under the broader category of pranayama, or yogic breathing exercises. In Ayurveda and yoga philosophy, prana is the life force that flows through the body, and pranayama practices aim to control and manipulate this vital energy for physical, mental, and … Read more

I. What is Anahata Pranayama (Heart Chakra Breath)? Anahata Pranayama, also known as Heart Chakra Breath, is a breathing technique that focuses on activating and balancing the heart chakra. The heart chakra, or Anahata chakra in Sanskrit, is located in the center of the chest and is associated with love, compassion, and emotional healing. By … Read more

I. What is Yoni Mudra Pranayama? Yoni Mudra Pranayama is a powerful breathing technique that is used in yoga and meditation practices. The word “yoni” in Sanskrit refers to the womb or the source of creation, while “mudra” means a symbolic gesture or seal. When combined, Yoni Mudra Pranayama is a practice that involves using … Read more

I. What is Anuloma Ujjayi? Anuloma Ujjayi is a breathing technique used in the practice of yoga. It is a combination of two different pranayama techniques – Anuloma Viloma and Ujjayi. Anuloma Viloma is a type of alternate nostril breathing where one inhales through one nostril and exhales through the other, alternating between the two. … Read more

I. What is Svara Pranayama? Svara Pranayama is a breathing technique that is part of the ancient practice of yoga. It involves controlling the flow of breath through one nostril at a time, alternating between the left and right nostrils. The word “svara” means “sound” or “note” in Sanskrit, and “pranayama” means “breath control.” This … Read more

I. What is Samana Vayu Pranayama? Samana Vayu Pranayama is a breathing technique in yoga that focuses on balancing the Samana Vayu, one of the five Vayus or vital energies in the body according to Ayurveda. Samana Vayu is responsible for digestion and assimilation of food, as well as the overall balance of the body. … Read more

I. What is Maha Pranayama? Maha Pranayama is a powerful breathing technique that is a part of the ancient practice of yoga. In Sanskrit, “Maha” means great or supreme, and “Pranayama” refers to the control and regulation of the breath. Maha Pranayama involves deep, slow, and controlled breathing exercises that help to increase the flow … Read more

I. What is Jihva Bandha Pranayama? Jihva Bandha Pranayama is a powerful breathing technique that is part of the ancient practice of yoga. In Sanskrit, “Jihva” means tongue, and “Bandha” means lock or seal. Therefore, Jihva Bandha Pranayama involves the locking or sealing of the tongue to control the flow of breath and energy in … Read more

I. What is Citra Pranayama (Splendid Breath)? Citra Pranayama, also known as Splendid Breath, is a breathing technique that is commonly practiced in the ancient tradition of yoga. This pranayama involves the manipulation of the breath through various patterns and rhythms to achieve specific benefits for the mind and body. The word “citra” in Sanskrit … Read more