Part II Benefits & Science of Pranayama (Breathing Practices) in Yoga

Painting by Juliane Porter

Part II

As discussed in Part I, Pranayama, in Yoga, is the practice of controlling the breath, which is the source of our pranah, or vital life force.  If we control the breath, we control the mind.  Stated differently, fast breathing = restless mind; still breath = still mind and clear perception.  When the breath is still, the mind is still.

Pranayama, the constriction of airways via controlled breathing techniques, leads to higher levels of CO2 which improves O2 delivery throughout the tissues of the body and dilates brain capillaries – creating an incredible health cascade. Without further ado, let's look further into the incredible benefits of Pranayama Practice, the fascinating science behind it, and learn a simple Pranayama technique we can employ anywhere, anytime to induce a calm clear disposition.

Ray Peat Findings

Ray Peat made several additional observations of Pranayama and it's resulting increase of CO2's affect on the body:

• CO2 has an electronic affect on hemoglobin allowing for the release of Oxygen into tissues. 
• CO2 structures water in the cell eliminating edema (water retention) in the cell.  As CO2 restores order within the cell nerve cells are stabilized increasing the state of calm in the body.
• CO2 inhibits lactic acid formation.
• High levels of CO2 strengthens bones/leads to bone mineralization.
• CO2 optimizes energy production in the mitochondria.
• CO2 is a major regulator of metabolism and is also involved in bronchodilation and muscle relaxation.
• CO2 leads to higher levels of hydrochloric acid
• CO2 protects from lung injuries.

 Simple Pranayama for Anyone from Beginners to Experienced Practitioners

This simple Pranayama technique is wonderful to calm down prior to a performance, speech or simply reduce feelings of anxiety.  As with all pranayama, it is based on the aforementioned science that slowing down breathing will calm the mind (in addition to the dozens of additional benefits).  

Take a deep breath

Inhale for 3 counts.  Exhale for 3 counts.  Repeat 3x.

Inhale for 4 counts.  Exhale for 4 counts.  Repeat 3x.

Inhale for 6 counts.  Exhale for 6 counts.  Repeat 3x.

Inhale for 8 counts.  Exhale for 8 counts.  Repeat 3x.

Inhale for 10 counts.  Exhale for 10 counts.  Repeat 3x.

Inhale for 12 counts.  Exhale for 12 counts.  Repeat 3x.

And that's it!  Change your breath.  Change your life!

Do you practice Pranayama? What is your experience of the benefits? Please feel free to share any questions and comments you have. 

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