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CHAPTERVIIPRANAYAMA1. What ls Pranayamadfr{rft sr;ssqmdrtfrk+q: HTurrdrrq I I rr-4gTFq that (Asana), uft being acquired, rrnr inspiration,9{[Itlfr' expiration, .ffr movements, ffiq, cessation olgTUIf{[I[: Pranayama or control of breath.That (Asanajaya) being acquired, follows pranayama orthecontrol of breath-the cessation of the movements of inspirationand expiration.NOTES_ Pranayama is said to be the union of prana and Apana.Pranayama, in the language of yoga, means the process bywhich we understand the secret of prana and control it. He,who has grasped this Prana, has grasped the very core of cos_mic life and activity. He who has conquered and iontrolled thisvery essence, has not only subjected his own body and mind,but every other body, mind and power in this universe. Thus,Pranayama or the control of Prana is that means by which theYogin tries to realise in this little body the whote of tosmic life,and tries to attain perfection by getting allthe powers in the universe.His various exercises and training are for this end. Acomprehensive knowledge of Prana and its function is absolutelynecessary for Pranayama. Here, I wilt give you a shortdescription. For detailed information and differeni exercises,refer to my book "Science of pranayama."2. What ls Prana'He who knows Prana knows the Vedas," is the importantdeclaration of the srutis. You will find in the Vedanta Sutras,"For the same reason, breath is Brahman.', prana is the sum(73)