Understanding Prāṇāyāma
Compounded from "Prana" (cosmic life energy) and "Ayama" (extension or restraint), Prāṇāyāma is the fourth limb of Patanjali's Raja Yoga. Through specific techniques like Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril), Kapalabhati (skull-shining breath), and Kumbhaka (breath retention), the practitioner harmonizes autonomic tone, balances the brain hemispheres, and awakens latent spiritual vitality.
Spiritual Significance
In the Numinous path, Prāṇāyāma represents a key pillar for bridging the gap between physical reality and the subtle energies of consciousness.