Pranayama is the science of controlled, conscious expansion of Prana, the vital life force that is the catalyst in all our activities. Pranayama is of vital importance in the Yoga Sadhana or Yogic discipline of any sincere practitioner trying to achieve the highest state of Cosmic Union. This presentation explores the depths of Pranayama with emphasis on the Eight Classical Pranayamas (Ashta Kumbhaka) and the visualization practices such a Mandal Pranayama, Chakra Pranayama and Anuloma Viloma Prakriya. Sukha Purvaka and Savitri Pranayamas that are hallmarks of the Gitanada Yoga Tradition are detailed. Unless the mind is controlled, the higher aspects of Yoga are not possible and the best way to control the mind is by the regular, dedicated and determined practice of Pranayama with awareness and consciousness.

• 1. Introduction to Pranayama 


• 2. Classification of Pranayama 


• 3. Phase of Pranayama 


• 4. Use of ratios in Pranayama 


• 5. Use of Mudras and Bandhas 


• 6. Aprakasha Bindu and Mudra 


• 7. Ashta Kumbhakas of Hatha Yoga : Surya Bhedana, Ujjayi, Sitkari, Sheetali, Bhastrika, Bhramari, Murcha, Plavini 


• 8. Kevala Kumbhaka


• 9. Sukha Purvaka Pranayama : Sukha Pranayama, Loma Pranayama, Viloma Pranayama, Sukha Purvaka Pranayama 


• 10. Savitri Pranayama 


• 11. Pranayamas for Psycho-Physiological harmony : Nasarga Mukha Bhastrika, Bhramari Pranayama, Kavi Pranayama 


• 12. Pranava Pranayama 


• 13. Prana Kriya 


• 14. Mandala Pranayamas : Apas Mandala Pranayama, Tejas Mandala Pranayama, Vayu Mandala Pranayama, Akash Mandala Pranayama, Manas Mandala Pranayama 


• 15. Chakra Pranayama 16. Anuloma Viloma Kriya