European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

HEALTH BENEFITS AND GENERAL ASPECTS OF ANCIENT PRACTICES OF YOGA AND PRANAYAMA

Dr. Vikas Jain*

ABSTRACT

Yoga is a well-known discipline of Indian civilization and is regarded as the science of holistic life. The Yoga involves different practices including Yama and Niyama, Kriya, Asana, Pranayama, Dharana and Dhyana. Yoga consists of a schedule of Asanas and breathing techniques which affects health positively in various aspects. Yoga first appeared in later hymns of the Upanishads or Vedanta, in ancient Hindu scriptures. Yoga and Pranayama improves general health and helps to cure various illnesses. Pranayama (breath control) has attracted particular interest of the scientific community due to its enormous health benefits. Breath control comprises altering the rate of breathing, such as slowing or pacing it, fiddling with the nostrils, repeating humming sounds and holding your breath, etc. The Yoga helps to know inner strength and improves mental focus. It potentiates physical health and resists disease prevalence by increasing immune power. Present article explores health benefits and general aspects of Yoga and Pranayama.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Yoga, Pranayama, Asana, Breathing.