Sunday, May 11, 2014

The Power of Prana



Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu: 
May all beings everywhere be happy and free, and may our own thoughts, words, and actions contribute to the happiness of all beings.



Everything is connected. From our inner selves to the exterior world, threads of same-ness weave throughout our universe.  Thus, when one aspect of this great connection is imbalanced, that imbalance filters throughout the rest of the system.  This is manifested in the physical body via an imbalance in one area of the body causing imbalance, and often injury, in another part.  Externally, this connection is integrated into our actions, words, and interactions with others and with our surroundings.  An act of kindness done unto one person is nearly always passed from that person to another and so forth. A smile given to someone you pass by on the street is returned by a smile to you. A single person's negative energy can transform the energy in a room.  In the face of calamity, calm responses bring serenity.  If we want to change something in our lives, the energy surrounding that thing must be changed.  

It starts from within; from the inner energy channels of our body.  In my yoga classes this week, we've focused on the five Prana Vayus, specifically the first Vayu, Prana Vayu.  Prana, which is often associated with breath, is the life-giving energy source within all beings. It is the energy that allows our bodies to move and our minds to think.  The Vayus, which translates literally to "winds", control our mental, physical, and emotional well-being.  When all five Vayus are functioning in harmony, we experience health, vitality, and mind-body awareness.  

The Vayus each possess specific qualities, functions, and directions of flow. The energy known as Prana Vayu, flows inward and upward, from the navel to the chest region. It encompasses the area around the lungs and heart. Prana Vayu is our most energizing force.  It heightens our senses and our inner awareness.  It is, in fact, the driving force of all the other vayus.  

That energy can be accessed with the breath.  Breath is our reminder to respond, not react. It has the power to calm us down or prepare us for action.  It is what centers and grounds us in our daily activities, in our interactions, and in our yoga practice.  The next time you face a challenging situation or person, come back to your breath and put all of your awareness on it.  The sound it makes as it filters in through your nose and fills up your lungs, the way your chest and rib cage expand and relax.  Notice the way your reactive thoughts begin to fade.  Take that negative energy and transform it into a positive, peaceful response. When you feel tired or fatigued, sad, or depressed, close your eyes and visualize your prana energy bubbling around your navel. Inhale, and see it rise up through your torso and into your chest and lungs.  See it encompass and infiltrate your heart.  Allow this positive, energizing force to lift you up and set you free.  

Take with you, as you finish reading this, an awakened sense of energy, compassion, and vitality and share it with all those you encounter.

~Namaste.

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