Science Of Breathing
Our breathing remains a continuous process for as long as we live.
Our breath is our life source; it sustains us, purifies us, and energizes us. It is key to our survival and can be both an unconscious or conscious act. Each breath we take has an impact on us, both physically and mentally, and we will continue to breathe until our time in life is up.
Physically, the breath is required to carry oxygen into the body, into the blood, and out to feed all our cells. The breath is also required to filter out carbon dioxide and other impurities from the cells and release them from the body. Breathing is a steady, life-sustaining process that helps cleanse and support the body. As physical activity increases, so does the breathing rate to meet the body’s heightened demand for oxygen.
Mentally and emotionally, the breath is linked to the energies or ‘prana’ of our being. Breath is the life force, so the rhythm and flow of our breathing impact our energy levels, emotions, and moods. You may notice that when you are experiencing heightened emotions, your breath becomes more erratic and unbalanced. It is when you are feeling calm, grounded, and at peace that your breath naturally flows in a rhythm that is harmonious and energizing.
Fundamental Breath Awareness
Our breathing remains a continuous rhythm from the moment we’re born until the end of our lives. It is linked to the constant flow of energy, or life force, that makes us individuals yet also connects us with all that is around us.
Each breath has possibly been passed through many other beings before you. Humans and animals stay alive by breathing in oxygen and letting out carbon dioxide. Trees and plants take in our carbon dioxide waste and release fresh oxygen as part of their life-sustaining process. We are all connected by energy and breath.
BKS Iyengar teaches that initially, Yoga asana should first be practiced; however, alongside asana, an awareness of breath can be developed. This awareness of breath is key to understanding our own energy and life force. As we learn to witness the breath, without altering it, we begin to connect more deeply with ourselves and our nature.
The Three Stages Of Breath
Inhalation, or Puraka, refers to the phase in which air is taken into the body. The prana or energy force is being invited into the body. For this energy to be accommodated, there is an adjustment of the self. Physically, the lungs expand, and on a mental level, our awareness expands, and we generate energy from within.
Retention (Antara Kumbhaka): This stage involves pausing the breath; physically, the lungs are full, yet there is no movement to exhale. These short pauses offer the mind a chance to recalibrate and find clarity.
Exhalation (Rechaka): It is in this stage that the breath is released back out of the body. Physically, the diaphragm contracts to empty the lungs; mentally, a purification occurs as tensions and toxins are released.