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Understanding Prana: The 'Life Force' in Yoga
In Yogic philosophy, the concept of Prana holds a central place. Often described as the vital life force or energy, Prana is a akin to the soul; it's the 'energy' which animates our body and mind. Derived from the Sanskrit words Pra (constant) and Na (motion), it can also be aligned with the breath - the constant motion of breath through the body throughout our lives.
Whether you are practicing yoga on the mat or simply observing your breath in meditation, you are engaging with Prana. Let’s dive deeper into the meaning of Prana, its relationship with breath, and how you can harness it to enhance your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
East meets West
In traditional eastern philosophies Prana is the energy that connects the body, mind, and spirit. While it is often associated with the breath, Prana goes beyond physical respiration. It exists as a subtle force that flows through invisible pathways called Nadis (energy channels) and is concentrated in Chakras (energy centres) throughout the body.
Because our traditional western culture and medicine traditions doesn't refer to energy channels and the subtle body, I find that a lot of westerners get confused and dubious on this subject, and struggle tend to write it off as spiritual jargon. Whilst I don't like to force Yogic dogma down the throats of my western clients, I do feel that we can understand ancient Yogic concepts either by seeing metaphysical parallels in western fields such as psychology, medicine, and 'wellbeing' or simply in a metaphorical sense, in the way, say, one might interpret the bible or the teachings of acupuncture or Karate.
Western translations of Prana
From a scientific or 'western' perspective, Prana can be linked to the physiological processes that sustain life, particularly those associated with the breath, nervous system, and energy metabolism. While Prana is described in yogic traditions as subtle energy, science offers an understanding of how breath and energy work on a biological level:
Breath and Oxygenation:
Prana is often connected to the breath, which provides oxygen to the body. Oxygen is essential for cellular respiration, the process by which cells produce energy (ATP) from glucose. This energy powers all bodily functions, aligning with the yogic view of Prana as the force that sustains life. We are alive when we breath, we are fully vital when we breath well, and we are sick when we breath poorly and dead when we don't breathe at all...
Autonomic Nervous System Regulation:
Pranayama techniques (breath control) influence the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which regulates involuntary functions like heart rate, digestion, and stress response. Slow, deep breathing stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress hormones like cortisol - having the same effect that the 'balancing of the Nadis' would have as the ancient Yogi sages described it.
Energy Flow and Bioelectricity:
Modern science recognizes the existence of bioelectricity—the electrical signals generated by the body’s cells and nervous system. The concept of Prana’s flow through Nadis can be compared to the movement of electrical impulses through nerves, which regulate bodily functions and maintain energy balance.
Impact on Brain and Mind:
Research shows that controlled breathing and meditation practices increase alpha and theta brainwave activity, which are associated with calmness, focus, and creativity. This aligns with the yogic understanding of Prana’s role in calming the mind and enhancing mental clarity.
The Psychology of mood:
Mood is a concept that is very little understood in western schools of thought, which is why I often like to refer to mood when talking about 'energy' in the Yoga practice; those clever ancient Yogis seemed to have a clearer focus on and attempt to explain and justify mood that we do now, so I really like using mood as a metaphor for the Pranic body.
Pranayama: The Art of Breath Control
The practice of Pranayama is central to understanding and directing Prana. Pranayama combines two Sanskrit words: Prana (vital energy) and Ayama (control or extension). Through deliberate breath control techniques, Pranayama helps regulate the flow of Prana, bringing balance, clarity, and energy to the mind and body.
Some of the most popular Pranayama techniques include:
Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing):
A practice that balances the flow of Prana between the left and right sides of the body, harmonizing the mind and reducing stress.
Ujjayi (Ocean Breath):
A slow, deep breath that calms the nervous system and enhances focus during yoga postures.
Kapalabhati (Skull-Shining Breath):
A vigorous breathing technique that energizes the body, cleanses toxins, and stimulates digestion.
By practicing Pranayama, you can clear energetic blockages, increase vitality, and quiet the restless mind.
The Five Vayus: Subtle Aspects of Prana
In yogic philosophy, Prana is further divided into five subtle energies called the Vayus (winds or currents). Each Vayu governs specific functions in the body:
Prana Vayu (Inward and Upward Energy):
Located in the chest, it governs breathing, heart function, and sensory perception.
Apana Vayu (Downward Energy):
Located in the lower abdomen, it controls elimination, reproduction, and detoxification.
Samana Vayu (Balancing Energy):
Centered around the navel, it governs digestion, assimilation, and balance.
Udana Vayu (Upward-Expressive Energy):
Located in the throat and head, it supports speech, growth, and self-expression.
Vyana Vayu (Outward Energy):
Pervading the entire body, it controls circulation, movement, and coordination.
Understanding and balancing these five Vayus through yoga and breathwork can bring harmony to the body and mind. Again we can think of these as representations or metaphors, concepts that run parallel to modern physiology, rather than abstract spiritual theories and theologies.
Prana, Mind, and Emotions
The flow of Prana is intimately connected to your mental and emotional state. When Prana flows freely, you experience calmness, vitality, and clarity. However, 'blockages' in the energy channels (Nadis) can lead to fatigue, stress, and negative emotions.
According to the ancient Yogis, and also modern research, working with Prana through breath awareness, yoga postures (asanas), and meditation, you can:
Reduce stress and anxiety.
Increase focus and mental clarity.
Release emotional blockages and cultivate inner peace.
Practical Ways to Harness Prana in Daily Life
Bringing awareness to Prana doesn’t require hours of practice. Small, consistent habits can help you tap into this vital energy and restore balance:
Practice Pranayama Daily:
Dedicate 5-10 minutes each day to a simple breathwork practice like Nadi Shodhana or Ujjayi.
Move with Awareness:
Practice yoga asanas to release physical tension and allow Prana to flow freely.
Spend Time in Nature:
Fresh air, sunlight, and natural surroundings are powerful sources of universal Prana. Take a mindful walk or meditate outdoors.
4 - Eat Prana-Rich Foods:
Include fresh, whole foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains that are rich in life force energy.
5 - Meditate on the Breath:
Observe your breath as it moves in and out. This simple practice increases awareness of Prana and calms the mind.
Conclusion
Prana is the invisible, elusive, kooky thread that weaves together your physical, mental, and spiritual self. By understanding and harnessing this vital energy through Yoga, Pranayama, and mindful living, you can unlock greater vitality, peace, and harmony in your life.
Whether you are a beginner exploring breathwork or a seasoned yogi diving deep into energy practices, remember that Prana is exactly what you make of it, however open your mind is to advanced spiritual concepts.
Start small. Breathe deeply. And watch as your life transforms with the power of Prana.
By Laura Pearce, Yoga Collective London founder. Practise with laura at the Glasshouse Yoga studio.
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