The Power of Breath: Exploring the Wisdom of Hindu Yogis
Breathing is the source of life, the crucible of existence. Seeking to uncover its mysteries and exploit its secrets, Yogis have pursued the art of breathing for millennia. Almost all the esoteric philosophies contained in Hindu Yogic texts and stories focus disproportionately on breathing methods as a means of achieving mental tranquility, bodily wellness, and spiritual enlightenment.
Understanding the Importance of Breath in Hindu Philosophy
The Hindus call the breath ‘Prana’; but this is not just about oxygen coming into the body. Rather, Prana is the direct force of life-energy in all the subtle realms of the body. In Yogic terms, the breath is the key to liberating the mind and the body from disease. When we change the rate, volume and quality of our breathing, we change the chemistry of the body, blood and brain, which directly affects our sense of wellness and inner calm.
The Science of Breath: Exploring Pranayama
At the core of the Hindu Yogic tradition sits Pranayama – the conscious control of the breath. One of its most central practices is a style of breathing known as Ujjayi. This is characterised by a subtle contraction of the throat, producing a gentle yet rolling noise with each inhalation and exhalation, rather like the sound of the ocean.
Benefits of Ujjayi Breathing
Benefits of Ujjayi breathing include calming the nervous system, relieving stress, and relaxing the mind. It is a great coping mechanism for stress. With practice, ujjayi breathing can be utilised to calm the nervous system, relieve anxiety, help people relax, and feel more centred.
In addition, it helps to improve respiratory function as it strengthens the respiratory muscles and helps to improve lung function, which makes it good for those who suffer from asthma or other breathing disorders or conditions.
Also, Ujjayi breathing helps the diligent practitioner to specifically cultivate concentration of the mind. This is because of two complimentary aspects of the breath that become obvious when practising in this way. First, the sound of the breath becomes like a metronome or anchor against which the ups and downs of the mind can be measured, and even be tampered, as they arise. Second, the act of watching and following the breath is in itself associated with a high level of concentration. The sinus sounds of Ujjayi breathing subtly hold that state of concentration in place.
Incorporating Ujjayi Breathing into Your Routine
Whether you’re an avid Yogi or new to the practice, incorporating Ujjayi breathing into your daily routine can provide significant rewards. Find a comfortable seated position, whether you’re on the floor or in a chair, and close your eyes. Spend a few moments connecting with the natural rhythm of your breath.
Now, sealing the glottis, begin to gently and mildly constrict the back of your throat on the inhalation, and, still sealing the glottis, slightly constrict it again on the exhalation. Allow the air to flow in a smooth, undulating even rhythm, similar to the slow waves of the ocean. With each prolonged breath through Ujjayi, let go of any effort and any strain, and let yourself fall into the flow of the moment.
Conclusion: Embracing the Wisdom of Hindu Yogis
In modern day, with instantaneous stimuli and stressors surrounding us on all sides, what we can learn from Hindu Yogis, who pioneered modern day Pranayama, is how we too can access the infinite fountain of peace and vitality that resides deep within.
Let the saints of old speak to you as you embark on your own quest of self-realisation and inner-discovery: As the breath moves, so moves the mind; as the mind moves, so-moves the breath. Breathe well and live well!
