Pranayama Philosophy

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.