What is Pranayama?

• ​"Prana" is life force energy. "Yama" is to restrain or control.
• Pranayama is the Sanskrit word for the control or regulation of the breath.
• Pranayama is incredibly powerful but can be harmful when improperly executed.
• Different types of pranayama balance different things in our physical, mental and emotional bodies.​​ For example, some pranayama practices create a cooling effect on the body, others a warming or heating effect.

​When our breath flows smoothly in, out and through our body, we experience balanced energy and health.

​Prana is life force energy.
Pranayama is the Sanskrit word for the control or regulation of the breath.

Pranayama is incredibly powerful. Some pranayama practices create a cooling effect on the body, others a warming or heating effect. Different types of pranayama balance different things in our physical, mental and emotional bodies.

When improperly executed, pranayama can cause harm so, as powerful and therapeutic as it is, it's important to learn how to properly perform it.

Breathing Exercises
​(Pranayama)

There are many types of Pranayama, or yogic breathing practices, all with a myriad of benefits. Here are three of the most popular:  

• Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing) creates balance and calmness in your mind and body and is one of the most popular breathing practices.
• Bhastrika (Bellows Breath) helps to energize your body and clear your mind.
• Kapalabhati (Skull Shining Breath) will help to purify, rejuvenate and invigorate your mind and body.

Here's a 5 minute video of Dr. Andrew Weil demonstrating the classic 4-7-8 Breathing Exercise.