Pranayama is an ancient breath control practice from yoga, designed to regulate and enhance the flow of prana (life energy) through controlled breathing techniques. It is a key component of traditional yogic practices, promoting physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
Meaning of Pranayama:
The word Pranayama comes from Sanskrit:
· "Prana" (प्राण) – Life force, vital energy, or breath.
· "Ayama" (आयाम) – Expansion, extension, or control.
Together, Pranayama means "expansion or control of life energy through breath."
Effects for freediving:
Effects for everyday health:
1. Uddiyana Bandha: Abdominal Lock - This is the most powerful diaphragmatic stretch.
Freediving specific benefits - This practice will increase the flexibility of our diaphragm, so that it can withstand greater pressure, making equalization easier and resulting in more comfort at depth.
General benefits - Tones the abdominal organs, increases gastric fire (digestion), and eliminates toxins in the digestive tract; makes the diaphragm and rib cage flexible, and massages all the internal organs.
2. Anuloma Viloma: Alternate nostril breathing - This is a meditative and balancing practice.
Freediving specific benefits - Improves breath control, calms, and focuses the mind, aids in clearing the sinus, and restores energy to the body.
General benefits - Restores flow and balance the energy in the body, calms the nervous system and encourages a better connection between the left and right hemispheres of the brain.
3. Kapalabhati: Skull Shining - This is an invigorating and energizing practice.
Freediving specific benefits - Strengthens the diaphragm, allowing for more comfort during long breath-holds.
General benefits - Tones and activates your diaphragm, stomach, spleen, pancreas, heart, and liver. Releases toxins from your lungs, improves digestion, and cleanses the sinuses.
✔ It is important to note that all of the pranayama's are a form of dry training and are NOT to be used in the water!