Preksha Dhyana Perception of Breathing

Author(s): Mahapragna Acharya
Publisher: Jain Vishva Bharati

Page 18

breath is the dynamic manifestation of this infinite potential power, conscious breathing can work and demonstrate miraculous feats.
Plants grow actively when they are properly watered, but shrink down if watering is disrupted. Similarly, organs, tissues and cells remain active when supplied with oxygen, and become sluggish and die down in its absence. Moreover, accumulation of carbon dioxide would also poison the cells. Prānāyāma-scientific complete breathing-starts with fuller utilization of the vital capacity of the lungs by slow, silent and deep breathing.
Regular practice of prāņāyāma (regulated breathing) is an efficient means of improving the quality of respiration. Prānāyāma is the scientific way of absorption of oxygen and excretion of carbondioxide. It is the process of reinforcing and disciplining the generation of vital energy - prāna. Simply stated, it comprises - inhalation, exhalation and pauses (holding the breath). But actually it is much more than the mechanical action. It is, in fact, judicious control and regulation of the process of producing life-giving energy. In other words, prānāyāma is the result of systematic and scientific control of the process of breathing. Normally we utilize only a fraction of our vital capacity. Prānāyāma ensures complete evacuation of the lungs by a slow, calm and complete exhalation; maximum intake of fresh air by inhalation and full exchange of gases in the lungs by holding the breath. It also ensures full utilization of vital capacity.
Prāņāyāma is an efficient thearapeutic force which results in better physical and mental health. It improves blood circulation and cleanses the muscular system. If the intake of oxygen is not adequate, the oxygenation of the blood will not be proper and the poisonous toxins would accumulate. Adequate purification and oxygenation of blood is essential for health.
1. Prana-The word prāna means vital energy. Different scientists and researchers
have called it by different names. Mesmer called it animal magnetism. Reichenhach called it odicforce, Blondot callet it N-Rays; Soviet scientists named it Bioplasmic energy and Czec scientists named it psychotronic energy. Russian scientists, Mr. Acnnyon and Mrs. Valentina Kirlian developed a technique of photographing this energy and it can be seen by anyone in photographs and by electron microscopes.
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