BREATH OF LIFE

                                BREATH OF LIFE   Pranayama is a Sanskrit word comprising two words — prana, meaning breath of life (energy), and ayama, meaning expansion (regulation and control). It is a crucial part of yogic practice that consists of deliberate modifications of the breathing process, this includes rapid diaphragmatic breathing, manipulation of speed (slow and rapid), alternating nostrils, and breath-holding (retention), which is usually performed in various seated positions. Pranayama practice consists of three important aspects of breathing, namely puraka (inhalation), rechaka (exhalation) and kumbhaka (breath retention). Over the years, researchers have found scientific evidence on the health effects of pranayama such as stress relief, cardiovascular and respiratory improvement and enhanced cognition. However, there are a lot of myths regarding the effects of pranayama practice and...