Yoga and pranayama are intertwined. Pranayama originated from yogic practices in India. It is an ancient breathing technique that focuses on the breath. The word Prana in Sanskrit means vital life force, and yama is to gain control. It involves breath control of different styles and methods, which has gained immense popularity in the western world and world, especially after the recent pandemic. Practicing pranayama elevates life and energy other than having its health bits for the mind and body. It also has therapeutic benefits like mindfulness, stress reduction, better sleep quality, and improved lung function, heart, cognitive performance, and digestive system.
Award-winning author Sundar Balasubramanian in his book, “Mind Your Breathing: The Yogi’s Handbook with 37 Pranayama Exercises,” compiles ancient and popular pranayama exercises, their modified version as per time and some new breathing exercises together with the essence of the wisdom of the century-long practices. The author also shares innovative results with his ongoing research and studies.