Pranayama & Meditation
The yogic system of breathing starts once a firm foundation in asana has been established as physically the student requires the alignment, flexibility, lung capacity and training necessary to sit and breathe correctly while practicing. Pranayama gives numerous physical benefits including toning the circulatory, digestive, nervous and respiratory systems, activating the internal organs and creating a feeling of energy and calmness. Equally important, it also brings the mind and senses under control and makes the individual fit for the experience of meditation.
Mastery of the body is the gateway to mastery of the mind. The intensity and depth to which pranayama is practiced on the physical level affects and changes the mind and spirit. Smooth subtle and controlled breathing is far easier to master than the mind, when the breath becomes smooth and steady so does the mind. In Pranayama one learns to withdraw the senses from external objects.
