There is one thing which connects us all – the breath. We all have to breathe, we all have to fill our lungs with oxygen, and then exhale that breath in order to release carbon dioxide and other wastes. Our body requires this process to continue in order to fill the blood cells with oxygen, giving us energy and allowing our bodies to process nutrients for health.

Pranayama, literally, means the control of breath, or yoga breathing. During a yoga practice, you will breathe in and out during a movement or a position in order to keep the oxygen flowing in your body, allowing more relaxation and deeper stretching.

This controlled breathing also allows the mind to focus and the body to release its stress from the day. Some studies have also shown that continued focus on the breath can help increase the power of the immune system and to help sharpen the mind.

Check out this pranayama demonstration by B.K.S. Iyengar and wow what a beautiful sound!