Pranayama

Pranayama is the fourth limb of yoga, governing the extension and control of prana (vital energy) through breath regulation. The word combines prana (life force) with ayama (extension) - the practice extends and refines vital energy.

Classical pranayama involves regulation of inhalation (puraka), exhalation (rechaka), and retention (kumbhaka). Through systematic practice, the breath becomes long, subtle, and eventually suspended. This refinement of breath directly refines the mind.

Patanjali notes that pranayama removes the covering over the inner light and prepares the mind for concentration. The breath-mind connection is intimate - as breath becomes steady, mind becomes steady. Advanced pranayama practices are powerful and should be learned under qualified guidance, as improper practice can cause harm.