THE KRIYA YOGA BLOG
Nurturing Your Mind, Body, and Spirit on the Path of Yoga and Self-Discovery
That which does not exist shall never be. As we step onto the path of yogic exploration, we encounter a concept that has been revered and studied for centuries - Prana. More than just a philosophical abstraction, prana is often described as the life force that permeates every corner of our existence. In "A Systematic Course in the Ancient Tantric Techniques of Yoga and Kriya" by Swami Satyananda Saraswati, the chapters on "Prana: An Introduction" and "Pranayama: Nadi Shodhana (Stage 1)" lead us through a transformative journey into the world of prana and its practical application in pranayama. Let's embark on this journey, immersing ourselves in the profound teachings while contemplating their real-life significance. In this edition of our Yogic Odyssey into the teachings of Swami Satyananda Saraswati, I'll share with you:
Religious and Traditional Aspects of Prana and PranayamaPrana is the active aspect of existence and consciousness is the all-pervading, inactive and witnessing principle. For life to exist, both must be present. ~ Swami Satyananda Saraswati In this chapter of "A Systematic Course in the Ancient Tantric Techniques of Yoga and Kriya," we find ourselves immersed in the tapestry of spirituality, where prana emerges as the subtle thread that connects us to our innermost being and the cosmos. Saraswati underscores that prana is not confined to the realm of esoteric thought; it's a cornerstone of numerous spiritual and religious traditions. Across cultures and beliefs, the concept of prana is deeply interwoven with the fabric of existence. In Hindu philosophy, prana is regarded as the life force that flows through all living things, sustaining their vitality. The ancient practice of Qi Gong in Chinese tradition also emphasizes the vital energy known as "qi" or "chi," akin to prana, which is believed to circulate through meridians, influencing health and well-being. Furthermore, Tibetan Buddhism speaks of "lung," the subtle winds that carry consciousness within the body. The Japanese practice of Reiki works with "ki," akin to prana, to promote balance and healing. Native American cultures honor the Great Spirit, the source of life force that animates all creation. Even in Western religious traditions, we see echoes of prana in concepts like the Holy Spirit, symbolizing the divine energy that guides and empowers. By recognizing prana's presence in these diverse traditions, we embrace a universal understanding that transcends borders and dogmas. It's a reminder that beneath our unique spiritual paths lies a shared acknowledgment of the subtle energies that shape our lives. As we ponder the religious and traditional aspects of prana and pranayama, let's acknowledge the intricate relationship between our breath and our inner journey. From prana flows the vitality of life, as well as the interconnectedness of all existence. The breath becomes a conduit for prana, a vehicle to attune ourselves with the rhythm of the universe. This realization invites us to explore pranayama as a bridge between the finite and the infinite, the seen and the unseen. The Pranic Body: Unveiling the Subtle DimensionsThis is the aim of pranayama: to tune the body and mind to a high state of sensitivity, so that one picks up these cosmic energies and so that consciousness can shine through our mind and body in its pristine glory. ~ Swami Satyananda Saraswati Swami Saraswati escorts us into the realm of the pranic body, an aspect of yoga that delves deeper than the physical. Just as rivers flow through landscapes, prana courses through our body in intricate pathways called nadis. As we engage in pranayama, we navigate these energetic rivers, fostering a harmonious flow of prana that nurtures our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. To gain a clearer understanding of the pranic body, envision it as a network of energy channels that intersects with our chakras, or energy centers. These chakras, often symbolized as spinning wheels of light, regulate the distribution of prana throughout our being. The practice of pranayama becomes a conscious dance with these energies, balancing and aligning them for optimal health and vitality. Modern Science and Prana: |
My MessageLove is the essence of our life. I have written this blog with love, and I offer it to you, dear reader, with the hope that the suggestions offered here will become a vital part of your self-healing and continued well-being. ~ Ashley SEARCH TOPICS
Categories
All
Archives
September 2023
donating = loving
If you find any joy and value in what I do, please consider becoming a Sustaining Patron with a recurring monthly donation of your choosing -- between a cup of tea and a good lunch. My intention is to always keep my research found within The Kriya Yoga Blog free (and ad-free) but it requires subsidization by the generous support of readers like you. It takes me hundreds of hours a month to sustain. Your support really matters. ❤ MONTHLY DONATION
♥ $3 / month ♥ $5 / month ♥ $7 / month ♥ $10 / month ♥ $25 / month ONE-TIME DONATION
You can also become a Spontaneous Supporter with a one-time donation in any amount: My Students |
❤ WHAT STUDENTS SAY ABOUT ASHLEY CRUZ YOGA ❤
"From Aldea Yanapay (great school of love to children), to the incredible homely hostel la boheme, to the food at mercado san blas and at greenpoint... My 6 weeks in Cusco/Qosqo/centre/gravitational centre were all truly well balanced out by Ashley ● I have been doing yoga for five years in London, Lisbon and NYC and I was wonderfully surprised by the teacher Ashley in Cusco, Peru. From her words, to the sense of opportunity, helping, the pace, the getting everyone's names and brief "why am I here", taste for music and simply those oils... vinyasa gained a new look for me. ● You made me feel so balanced out, just when I needed that push. May your excellent work continue and your knowledge be taken further." ~ Yours, Ana Maria (portugal)
|
❤ Ashley Cruz YOGA IS SOCIAL ❤ |