Author: Swami Niranjanananda Saraswati
Publisher: Yoga Publications Trust
Year: 2010
Language: English
Pages: 363
ISBN/UPC (if available): 9788186336793
Description
This book is a comprehensive text on the classical philosophy of Prana, life force, and Pranayama, the expansion and control of the life force. It provides a complete description of the science of Pranayama as presented in the classical texts and as taught in the Satyananda yoga tradition by Bihar School of Yoga.
The first part of the book explores the theory of prana and its related yogic concepts: Koshas, chakras, nadis and mantras, Secondly, it expands upon respiratory physiology and current research undertaken by science on pranayama.
In the practical section, specific guidelines for practicing pranayama are given, using detailed instructions and illustrations. Throughout the text, scriptural sources further enhance the reader’s understanding, bringing to light the original essence and intent of these classical teachings.
Contents
Introduction
Part 1 – Philosophy of Prana and Pranayama
1. What is Prana?
2. Pancha Kosha – Vital Sheaths
3. Chakras – Energy Vortices
4. Nadis – Channels of Prana
5. Pancha Prana – Pranic Force Fields
6. Five Keys
7. Prana and Mantra
Part 2 – Philosophy of Respiration and Pranaama
8. Philosophy of Breathing
9. Yogic Philosophy of the Nose
10. What is Pranayama?
11. Iportance of Kumbhaka
12. Benefits of Pranayama
13. Research on Breath and Pranayama
Part 3 – Pranayama Practice
I. Pre-Pranayama Training
14. Conscious Breathing
15. Basic Breathing Methods
16. Preliminary Breathing Practices
17. Awareness of the Subtle Breath
II. Classical Pranayamas
18. Guidelines for Pranayama
19. Nadi Shodhana Pranayama
20. Tranquillizing Pranayamas
21. Vitalizing Pranayamas
Appendices
A. Supplementary Practices
B. Asanas Relevant to Pranayama
C. Mudras Relevant to Pranayama
D. Bandhas Relevant to Pranayama
E. Hatha Yoga Pradipika Pranayama Sutras
Glossary
Index of Practices
General Index