What Really Happens When We Breathe

From a physiological perspective, breathing oxygenates the body, removes toxins, regulates the heartbeat, balances brain function, and harmonises the endocrine system.

Yoga sees much deeper. We inhale not only air, but prana — the life force that sustains all living beings, influences our well-being and even the span of our life.

Breath is like a bridge that unites body, mind, and consciousness.

When it is shallow and rapid, energy scatters. When it is conscious and deep, energy gathers — bringing calmness and strength. Yet we seldom breathe consciously.

Just as our state affects our breathing, so breathing influences our state. Through breathing, we can regulate emotions and restore tranquillity. At a deeper level, we can learn to consciously distribute prana — the life energy.

In yoga, this is known as pranayama — the art of energy control. Pranayama is not merely a breathing exercise. It is the mastery of drawing in energy and pausing the breath when prana is abundant — when the body is fully nourished by the life force.

“Prana carries special elements that shape the body. Through regular practice of pranayama, energy becomes balanced, the channels open, and the need for breath decreases. Yet, this requires practice and the mastery of specific methods.”

Imram

When the breath becomes slow and deep, the mind grows still, the body purifies, and energy flows freely. The practice of pranayama strengthens concentration and naturally leads one into meditation.