Sanskrit Word of the Week : Pranayama

This is a Sanskrit word that you'll often hear at the beginning or end of a yoga class.  It translates as breath control or breath extension.  Prana is your life-force energy and yama means 'to control'.  Some teachings say, however, that this word is a combination of the words prana and ayama, which means 'to lengthen'. Either way, it's the name given to the breathing exercises that we do that help to regulate the nervous system, reduce stress, strengthen the body's breathing apparatus and improve lung function. Pranayama also has a meditative element to it as you're concentrating on the rhythm of the breath rather than all the other things going on in your mind.

There are various pranayama techniques ranging from simple, suitable-for-all Sama Vrtti Pranayama (Equal Breath) where you breathe in for a slow count and then breathe out for the same length of time, to Bhastrika (Bellows Breath) where you forcibly exhale, breathe in and repeat rapidly which is not recommended for beginners or those with blood pressure problems. 

Try this simple Pranayama practice now - it's short and sweet, slow and gentle and suitable everyone. The counting and the lengthened exhalation helps to relax the nervous system bringing a feeling of peace and calm.

Sit how you feel most comfortable and where you can have a straight back.

Rest your hands on your thighs.

Close your eyes.

Breathe in for a count of 4.

Hold for a count of 2 at the top of the inhalation.

Breathe out for a count of 6.

Hold for a count of 2 at the bottom of the exhalation.

Repeat as many times as you like. 

Pause to notice how you feel afterwards.