Pranayama/Meditation
This is the area of Yoga that I specialise in the most.
My previous 6 month Intensive in India was an in-depth study
into the depths of Raja Yoga and Pranayama.
Many people relate to meditation that is a practice,
and that breathing exercises come under the title "Meditation".
Certainly, the phrase "Buddha observes his breath"
is the quintessential explanation of what means Buddhism.
This is not necessarily so, from a Yoga perspective...
for while the intent is that we always be meditating upon a pose,
the breath, and/or the moment - ie: observing -
Meditation is considered a 'State' rather than a practice.
It is an abstract awareness
experienced only at a very rare and high vibration/manner of existence.
It is my belief that there is a fundamental difference between
observing the breath (without changing it)
and doing Breath exercises (Pranayama).
And while I promote both,
I use Pranayama as an intrinsic element to almost every class.
Meditation, meanwhile, occurs naturally anyway.
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According to Patanjali (The Father of Yoga),
Pranayama is the fifth of the eight Yogic Stages, coming after Asana.
Pranayama is made up of two Sanskrit words: Prana and Ayama.
Prana relates to Energy, 'life-force', Chi (of Qi Gung),
Ki (of Reiki or Ki Energy), and is often closely related to the breath.
Ayama means 'the extension of the dimensions of'.
Pranayama in essence means the extension of the dimensions of Prana,
and the investigations hereinto.
There are an infinite number of possible practises;
many are essentially simple and profound.
The beauty and simplicity of the practise adds dimensions to experience.
When one can recognise the subtleties in the nature of Prana,
they wield power and wisdom beyond imagination.
Pranayama is often related to Kundalini and the Bandhas.
Anyone who can breathe has the ability to practise it.
Pranayama leads to a state of Meditation.
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An early-bird Pranayama Class
is now running every Thursday morning 6.30 - 8.00 AM,
at Land of Yoga - 497 Plenty Rd, Preston.
They will be very relaxing, and quiet.
Everyone will get their own personal guidance in this area.
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There is also a Meditation Session held
every Tuesday 6.15-7.15PM.
This is a simple class with stillness and awareness.
Deeply effective, this class costs $5.
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