Yoga minded and holistic healers sat calmly listening to a prominent yoga mentor talk to us about pranayama, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. We have all heard of pranayama, however, many of us do not practice it or do not understand how beneficial it is. Simple resting poses started the group in motion and then some very basic breath-awareness exercises followed. Stretching and breathing ruled the room. It can be difficult to be drawn to deep breathing, or pranayama, right away as it remains unseen, mysterious and perhaps intimidating for a novice yogi. However, using the breath in a rhythmic way, becomes quite relevant and therefore useful.
Lie down on your back all were told. It is easier to breathe and to learn in this position. Raising the top of one's sternum toward the chin, tucking the hinge or the jaw toward one's inner ear, and softly lowering the chin toward the sternum begins the process of breathing in and out. Pranayama is meant to nurture a high level of bodily health and mental clarity, both of which are necessary steps on the path to self awareness and a wholesome life.
Pranayama, traditionally, releases and channels the body's stores of internal pranic energy. One strives to distribue the breath evenly throughout the entire lungs, the top and the bottom, left and right, front and back. At first this may be difficult and you may sense that part of your lungs are not open. Don't get discouraged. Breathe gently with a steadiness to increase your awareness and allow yourself to learn to breathe fully and calmly. Mental and emotional storms are quieted by deep breathing.
The Philly yogis were quietly breathing throughout the room. The rhythm of the breath to the internal body-mind process made anxiety, fear, and nervousness disappear. The nervous system is prepared to handle the increased energy that deep breathing brings. Some of the group used props, such as bolsters and pillows, to stay calm as the breath is sometimes quick and sometimes slow, sometimes smooth, and sometimes harsh. Sometimes it stops temporarily. Inhale and exhale. Notice the quality of your breath but do not judge yourself or interfere with the process. The depth of breathing was heard like a quiet humming throughout the loft and all were in a better state of mind.
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