I find the breath fascinating. I find it fascinating that our bodies have the capacity to inhale oxygen into our lungs, where specific gas exchanges take place, and then release carbon dioxide as we exhale. I find it fascinating that out bodies know exactly where and how oxygen needs to be transported in order to keep each cell alive and functioning. I think it’s really important to understand the basic biology of our breath, to develop a deeper understanding of the importance of pranayama.

Pranayama is one of the eight limbs of yoga. It is equally important as an asana practise, along with the other limbs of yoga. Unfortunately, in the West we have a tendency to focus mainly on asana. As a result, sacred practises such as pranayama do not always receive the attention they deserve. The truth is, breath is everything. It is our vital force. It gives us clear signals about every aspect of life. It has the ability to not only keep us alive but to guide us through all our endeavours. Rarely do we allow our breath to flow and be explored to its full capacity. Rarely do we stop to observe the depths of our breath.

Under the term pranayama, there are many variations of breath control and awareness to be explored. Each of these bring different qualities to our minds and bodies. The following writing draws on how I imagine simple, controlled breathing. Perhaps this will help you to bring more awareness to your breath and body also…

As I allow the breath to move through me, I notice the quality of it. I notice the energy move through different areas of my spine. Spreading across the sacral region, through the lumbar, broadening across the thoracic, and finally reaching the cervical, where I release my shoulders, drawing them back down towards the spine.

I notice my breath in more detail now. As I inhale, I envision my diaphragm contracting and moving downward, creating more space in the thoracic cavity for oxygen to flow in. I notice the rate at which I allow air to flow in, causing my chest to expand even further. After my inhalation, I pause and observe the expansion which has been created in my rib cage and chest. During exhalation, I envision my diaphragm moving back to its natural position. My abdominal muscles relax and I envision my lungs recoiling back to their relaxed state. The space in the thoracic cavity decreases as I release my breath with control and awareness. I notice the natural pause after exhalation and am now ready for the next cycle to take place. 

By Lilly Slater