Encased within Annamaya Kosha (the physical body), is Pranamaya Kosha, which refers to the energy body. Prana, translated as breath or energy, comprises all physical, spiritual, mental, intellectual, sexual, cosmic, & potential energy. Essentially, at our most basic of definitions, we are all matter vibrating at different frequencies. By developing a breath practice, also known as pranayama practice, we begin to deepen our understanding of the intrinsic connection between our mind & our body. In our pranayama practice, we primarily explore imbalances in our energetic body, as experienced through shame, greed, jealousy, hatred, anger, obsession, lust, or an excess of pride.
The breath has often been referred to as a “hinge” between our external & internal worlds. By optimizing our respiratory system, we begin to generate awareness & elasticity in our nervous system. A consistent pranayama practice will yield fruits that allow us to better harness the fluidity of the breath to understand our own sometimes turbulent emotions & with that begin to turn our awareness inwards.