Prana
प्राण
Life force; vital energy; breath
Definition
Pronunciation: PRAH-nah
Also spelled: Praana
Life force; vital energy; breath
About 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Prana mean?
Life force; vital energy; breath
Which tradition does Prana come from?
Prana is a key term in shared.
How is Prana used in practice?
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.