The link between mind and breath is significant. The Yogic sutras encourage practice of pranayama to calm the mind, especially before practicing meditation. The first step is to create breath awareness. Here, awareness of the breath means keeping the mind alert, still and free of clutter. This discipline allows the mind to interiorize and develop focus and concentration.
Meditation is described as “the steady continuous flow of concentration.” Pranayama, or breath awareness, is a means to get to that state.
During the practice, the mind concentrates on inhalation, exhalation or retention of the breath. Different pranayamas emphasize different techniques.
Inhalation supplies abundance of oxygen to the entire body.
Exhalation expels waste products and toxins from the body.
Retention is holding of the breath to gain control and prevent dissipation of energy.
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Pranayamas cause rhythmic expansion of the lungs, creating better circulation within the kidneys, liver, stomach, spleen, intestines, skin and other organs in the body.
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Oxygen is provided for efficient functioning of every body cell. It purifies the blood stream and therefore there is improvement in the quality of blood.
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The mind is calm and able to concentrate better. There is greater clarity of thought.
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Deep, slow breathing results in a stronger and more efficient working of the heart and lungs. This also means that correct breathing practices can lower blood pressure and reduce the likelihood of heart disease.
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The movement of the diaphragm during deep breathing exercises massages the abdominal organs and aids the digestion and elimination process.
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The skin becomes smoother and there is reduction of facial wrinkles because of better circulation and release of tension in the body and mind.
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Find a quiet place where you won't be distracted. The room should be well ventilated.
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Sit straight. Breathe slowly and deeply.
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You should do the exercises on an empty stomach. Practicing pranayama after a heavy meal reduces concentration; also, the food in your stomach causes some of your blood and oxygen supply to be diverted into the stomach for digestion.
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Breathing should be smooth, steady and continuous, performed with utmost concentration.
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Know your limits. Don't strain your breath so that breathing becomes uncomfortable.