Pranayama A Health Promoting Practice: A Study Based On Hatha Yogic Literature
Sharma Vandana, Shatrughna Singh
Traditional Medicine April 27, 2026 DOI: 10.35702/trad.10037 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Intervention | Pranayama |
| Topics | Breathwork |
| Key points | Presents the Yogic framework in which Prana, the vital life force flowing through nadis and divided into five Vayus, determines health, strength, and vitality, with imbalance or blockage linked to physical and psychological problems. Argues that Pranayama, through conscious control of inhalation, exhalation, and breath retention, balances Prana, purifies the nadis, calms the mind, reduces stress, and prepares practitioners for concentration and meditation. |
Abstract
Prana is understood as the basic principle of life. It is often described as vital force, bio-energy, or the life breath that sustains all living beings [1]. This energy supports all activities in the body and mind. It controls physical processes such as breathing, digestion, and circulation, as well as mental activities like thinking and awareness. Because of this, Prana is what makes a living being different from a non-living object [2]. The level, balance, and smooth flow of Prana play an important role in determining a person’s health, strength, and overall vitality. When Prana is balanced, the body and mind function properly, but when it becomes disturbed or blocked, various physical and psychological problems may develop [3]. In Yogic philosophy, Prana spreads throughout the entire body and flows through a network of subtle channels called nadis. These nadis help in carrying energy to different parts of the body and maintaining internal coordination. Classical Yoga texts explain that Prana is divided into five main types, known as the five Vayus: Prana, Apana, Samana, Udana, and Vyana. Each of these performs a specific function. For example, Prana Vayu governs breathing and heart activity, Apana Vayu controls elimination, Samana Vayu supports digestion and absorption, Udana Vayu is related to speech and upward movement, and Vyana Vayu circulates energy throughout the body [4,5]. The proper functioning of these five forms ensures balance and stability in the body. The control and regulation of this vital energy through breathing is called Pranayama. It involves conscious control over inhalation, exhalation, and retention of breath. Through regular practice, Pranayama helps to balance the flow of Prana and improves both physical and mental health. Hatha Yoga texts describe different methods of Pranayama that purify the nadis, increase vital energy, and remove internal disturbances [6]. These practices not only improve bodily systems but also calm the mind, reduce stress, and prepare the practitioner for higher stages of Yoga such as concentration and meditation [7]. Therefore, Pranayama is considered an important practice for maintaining health, increasing vitality, and achieving harmony between body and mind.