Pranayama Philosophy
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Yoga Techniques and Fitness
Overview
In this lesson, we examine the fourth limb of the Eight Limbs of Yoga, pranayama (breath practices).
Objective
Become familiar with the meaning and deeper philosophical perspectives on the purpose and effects of pranayama (breath practices).
What You'll Get
Describe how pranayama is presented in The Yoga Sutras. Describe the context from which pranayama is best understood. Define the Sanskrit word, pranayama. Provide a succinct and practical description of the philosophy behind pranayama. Describe ways that life force energy is received and ways that it’s expended, and how pranayama relates to life force energy. Describe, from a philosophical perspective, the result of successful pranayama practice.
Energy & Subtle Body Anatomy
Pranayama is best understood in the context of Energy & Subtle Body Anatomy so please be sure you’re familiar with the teachings in that lesson:
Objective
Gain an understanding of the yogic perspective on how life force energy moves and functions within the physical, mental and emotional bodies.
Description
Define and describe prana, prana vayus and nadis. Name the three primary nadis and explain how they relate to chakras. Describe the ida nadi, the pingala nadi and the sushumna nadi. and how they are relevant to Hatha Yoga. Explain how Hatha Yoga and prana relate. Describe the primary techniques for working with subtle energy and explain some of the ways in which yoga practices liberate energy.
The Fourth Limb
Pranayama is presented as the fourth limb in the Eight Limbs of Yoga. It refers to breath practices designed to enhance one’s life force energy.
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