Ritual

Schematic representation of how a
yoga posture forms a circuit, the
crossed legs protecting against loss
of Pranic current.
Yogi meditating on the bank of the
Banaras-ghat.
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to the subtle centres of the body; its major aim is to stimulate the
centre of paranormal consciousness in the brain centre for the
arousal of the Kundalini. To achieve this aim yogic discipline has
developed a systematic technique, with special emphasis on
location, duration, speed, depth and rhythm of breathing. In
normal circumstances our breathing is very irregular; not only are
the inhalation and exhalation unequal but they lack harmony.
Though every individual's respiratory cycle reacts dynamically
upon the latent Kundalini, this reaction takes place about 21,600
times a day, that is, at a frequency more or less equal to the
individual's number of breaths. However, for the majority of
people these breaths are both shallow and fast, filling the lungs to
only a fraction of their capacity. Under those circumstances, the
current of energy flowing downwards to strike the Kundalini is
inadequate to awaken her.
The first step in Pranayama is concerned with regulating the
breath in a measured way and letting the breath flow in and out
rhythmically. Rhythmic control prevents dissipation of energy,
and its practice supports concentration and harnesses the impulses
of the autonomic nervous system, thereby improving the whole
tonus of our body and harmonizing the inner relationships of our
psycho-physical organism.
Pranayama is used in conjunction with other disciplines of yoga
practice such as asana, mudra, mantra, bandha or internal muscular
contraction, and so on. Many variations and combinations have
been developed to regulate Prima for purposive and directive
movements. The practice of Pranayama consists of several phases.
Its first and most important goal is to be sensitive and alert to the
act of respiration, to be aware of breathing. If we begin to 'feel' the
flow of Pranic current, we can also begin to control it. Next is
bodily posture: Pranayama, to be effective, should be practised in a
special position best suited to promote the desired result. An easy
position is either Padmasana, the lotus posture, when one sits crosslegged
with the right foot resting on the left thigh and the left
crossed over the right leg, or in Siddhasana, the posture of
accomplishment, with the left heel pressed firmly on the perineum
and the heel of the right leg on the left thigh and touching the
abdomen. In both these positions one is required to sit upright with
the head, neck and spinal column in a straight line in order to lessen
the possibility of drowsiness. The eyes are directed towards the tip
of the nose and the hands are laid on the knees.
Yogis explain that sitting crosslegged in either of these postures
lessens the possibility that the Pranic energy will escape. It provides