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Appendix B
Asanas Relevant to Pranayama
There are several positions in which to practise pranayama: sitting, standing or lying down. However, all have one component in common: a straight spine, neck and head, without which the flow of breath and prana will be hampered in many ways.
Standing posture This posture is not very common in pranayama practice because it is less stable than the other asanas. However, it does allow for comfortable deep breathing as there is less abdominal restriction. It may be used at times when sitting or lying is impossible, although a little more concentration is required to keep the body steady.
Technique
Stand with the feet placed shoulder-width apart and parallel to each other. This gives the best standing base to maintain balance. Adjust the pelvis, which forms a base for the rest of the body, so that the trunk is supported in an upright position, neither leaning too far forward or backward, nor to the right or left. Keep the spine straight. Let the arms hang on either side of the body, the hands either in front of the thighs or to the sides. The shoulders should not slouch forward or be pulled backward. Adjust
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