Sanskrit: Pranayama
Pronunciation: prah-nah-YAH-mah
Translation: Prana = life force or breath, Ayama = extension
What it is: The practice of controlling and extending the breath. Pranayama encompasses dozens of breathing techniques used to calm the nervous system, energise the body, or prepare the mind for meditation.
Common techniques:
- Ujjayi — ocean breath, used during Vinyasa flow
- Nadi Shodhana — alternate nostril breathing, balances left and right brain
- Kapalabhati — skull-shining breath, energising
- Sama Vritti — equal breathing, calming for beginners
Benefits: Reduces stress and anxiety, improves lung capacity, regulates the nervous system, sharpens focus.