Pran and Pranayam

SR No.: 009371
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Niranjananand Saraswati Swami
Publisher: Yoga Publication Trust
Publication Year: 2009
Total Pages: 369
Language: Hindi
Classification: Book_Devnagari
File Size: 11 MB

Page 177

Commence the next inhalation, expanding the ribs naturally, and then expand them further into a full thoracic inhalation.
On the next exhalation, again compress the ribs beyond their natural resting position, forcing out all the air. Continue with forced inhalation and exhalation, maintaining a slow steady rhythm in the breath.
Try to fully appreciate the difference between passive and forced exhalation while practising thoracic breathing. Continue the practice, pausing for a second or two after each inhalation and exhalation.
Count 50 breaths.
Clavicular breathing
Clavicular or shoulder breathing ventilates the upper lobes of the lungs. This type of breathing takes very little effort and is commonly preformed during sedentary activities. As a component of yogic breathing, it is the final stage of total ribcage expansion. It is performed after the thoracic inhalation has been completed in order to absorb a little more air into the lungs. In this type of breathing the upper ribs and collarbone are pulled upwards by the muscles on either side of the neck and throat. In daily life it occurs during such conditions as sobbing or an asthma attack.
The following practice helps to develop the mechanism of clavicular breathing, so that it can be used efficiently when required.
Clavicular breathing with thoracic breathing
Lie in shavasana and relax the whole body.
Commence thoracic breathing with passive exhalation and continue for a few minutes.
Then inhale fully, expanding the ribcage.
When the ribs are fully expanded, inhale a little more until expansion is felt in the upper portion of the lungs, just below the collarbones, which also move up slightly. The maximum ribcage expansion takes place at this point.
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