Pranayama and types and Effect: Bcom NEP vac subject

• Pranayama is the practice of interrupting the movement of breathe and controlling it according to one's wishes.

• Pranayama prana+ ayam

• Prana means life force ayam means growth or expansion

• Pranayama is the process of increasing and expanding the flow of oxygen in the body.

• Three process of Pranayama

• Purak: Process of pulling the outside air inside

• Kumbhak: The state of trapping air inside

• Rechak: The process of expelling the inside trapped air outside.

1. Paschatya Pranayama
2. Sahaj Pranayama
3. Bhraman Pranayam
4. Vedic Pranayama
5. Hatha Yoga Pranayama



Paschatya Pranayama

It is a technique of regulating breathing in proportion to the movement of body's organ. Breathing along with movement of limbs causes a lot of oxygen to flow in the blood and purifies the blood which results in the relief of diseases in the body.



Sahaj Pranayama

Sahaj Pranayam is a yogic action performed through long breathing without resorting to Kumbhak. When practicing this pranayama, the level of Rechak should be higher than Purak, which helps to remove unwanted substances accumulated in the body. All ages can practice this pranayama.



Bhramana Pranayama

Bhramana pranayama, also sometimes referred to as bhraman pranayama, is a simple breath exercise to incorporate into a walking practice. It is a great technique that can be used as a standalone walking meditation, or combined with a mindfulness exercise to increase the focus and attention to your surroundings



Hathayoga Pranayama

Hatha Yoga Pranayama is a series of breathing exercises that form a core part of Hatha Yoga practice. These exercises aim to control the breath to increase the flow of ‘prana’ or life force energy throughout the body. The practice of pranayama is believed to improve physical and mental well-being, aiding in stress reduction, improved focus, and enhanced vitality.


The eight classical pranayamas in Hatha Yoga, as outlined in ancient texts, include:

Surya Bhedi: Activates the sympathetic nervous system and increases body heat.

Sitkari: Cools the body and calms the mind.

Sheetali: Similar to Sitkari, it cools the body and affects the endocrine system.

Bhramari: Relieves stress and cerebral tension, promoting calmness.

Bhastrika: Increases oxygen levels in the blood and purifies the nadis.

Murccha: Induces a state of faintness or swoon, promoting mental tranquility.

Plavini: Allows one to float in water and improves digestive power.

Ujjayi: Enhances the functioning of the thyroid and parathyroid glands.

Each technique has specific methods and benefits, contributing to the overall balance and flow of energy within the practitioner. Pranayama practices are often integrated with other yoga postures and meditation for a holistic approach to health and spirituality.



Vedic Pranayama

Vedic Pranayama is an ancient yogic breathing practice derived from the Vedic scriptures. It involves techniques designed to control and extend the ‘prana’ or life force energy within the body. The term combines ‘Prana’ meaning ‘life energy’ and ‘Ayama’ meaning ‘expansion’ or ‘extension’. Vedic Pranayama is not just about breath control; it’s a spiritual practice aimed at enhancing vitality, promoting mental clarity, and facilitating spiritual growth.

The practice includes various breathing exercises, each with specific rhythms and techniques to influence the flow of prana. Regular practice of Vedic Pranayama can lead to improved health, reduced stress, and a deeper sense of inner peace. It’s a key component of the yogic path and is considered essential for advancing in spiritual practices.

Some of the key techniques in Vedic Pranayama include:

Kapalabhati Pranayama: A cleansing breath that involves sharp exhalations and is known to detoxify the body.

Ujjayi Pranayama: Also known as the ‘oceanic breath’, it produces a soothing sound and is used to focus concentration and warm the body.