Pranayama Practice: Apana Pranayama (Audio Recording)

/
Five-Prana-Ayurveda_Pranayama-Practice_Apana-Pranayama

Pranayama

According to Ayurveda, prana is considered the energy and breath of the universe and all living things. Prana roughly translates to “life force” and ayama translates to “expansion”. Therefore, pranayama means “expansion of the life force”. When we practice pranayama we are working to expand the lungs by filling them with prana or breath.

There are many forms of pranayama in Ayurveda. Some increase lunar energy like Adham Pranayama or Shitali Pranayama. While others increase solar energy like Kapalabhati Pranayama or Bhastrika Pranayama. Finally there are pranayama practices that balance both the lunar and solar energies like Nadi Shodana Pranayama, Bhramari Pranayama, or Ujjayi Pranayama.

In Ayurveda, there are five pranas also called vayus or subdoshas of vata. Vayu is another word for prana. It is also the cosmic force of the element of air, which is the main element associated with vata dosha. These five vayus control all the movement in our body; from the movement of digestion, respiration, circulation, elimination, reproduction, speech and communication plus so much more. The five vayus or five pranas are: Apana, Udana, Samana, Vyana and Prana. Each one of the five pranas has a corresponding pranayama practice to help bring balance into the powers of the air element.

Apana Pranayama

In this Ayurveda pranayama audio recording, you will be led through a 15 minute Apana Pranayama breathing practice. Apana Pranayama or the descending breath is associated with the vital energy of the lower abdomen which governs elimination and reproduction; and is the basis of our immune function. Apana breathing is used in Ayurveda to strengthen and detoxify the urinary, excretory and reproductive systems. Traditionally it has been used for constipation and diarrhea, as well as menstrual and sexual difficulties. Apana Breath is related to reproduction, excretion, urination, menstruation, and elimination. This is not only elimination in the body but also in the mind. Apana Pranayama helps to rid the mind of negative emotions, thoughts, experiences, and sensations. Now follow along as you are led through the Ayurveda breathing technique of apana pranayama or descending breath.

Music by Fried Coffee.