Prana

Prana is the vital life force that animates all living beings. It enters through breath but is more than air - it is the subtle energy that sustains life, governs all physiological functions, and connects body to mind.

In the body, prana flows through subtle channels (nadis) and is concentrated in energy centers (chakras). The five forms of prana (prana vayus) govern different functions: prana (intake), apana (elimination), samana (digestion), udana (expression), and vyana (circulation).

Prana is cultivated through: conscious breathing (pranayama), fresh air, fresh food, time in nature, positive thoughts, and spiritual practice. It is depleted by: shallow breathing, stale food and environments, negative thinking, and excessive talking. Strong prana manifests as vitality, mental clarity, enthusiasm, and connection to life.