Photograph of the Book, ‘Light on Pranayama’ written by B.K.S. Iyengar
In the ancient cultures of our world, the art of maintaining physical health has always been revered. The philosophy of India profound in its understanding of life, declares that while the body may return to dust, life is sustained by the forces of air, transformed through the element of fire into energy, light and radiance.
This transformation of matter into finer forms is the very source of our strength. Yet, true strength lies not merely in the transmutation of matter but in the complete cycle where air and light are taken in, transformed and returned to the universe.
Yoga, as taught by the seers of India transcends mere physical postures. It is a scientific and systematic discipline for the harmonious alignment of all the energies within the human being leading one towards communion with the Divine. In its various forms—Hatha Yoga, Raja Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Kundalini Yoga, Mantra Yoga, Laya Yoga—yoga remains a pathway to the ultimate reality.
Among these, Pranayama, the control and mastery of the life force is central to the yogic discipline.
In this remarkable book, the author brings to light the profound significance of Pranayama. Sri Aurobindo, the great sage of Pondicherry shared from his own experience how Pranayama amplified his mental faculties, enabling him to compose and retain vast amounts of poetry—an astonishing feat of mental clarity and focus. Such is the power that resides within the breath or prana.
Prana, in the yogic tradition is far more than mere air or breath. It is the essence of life itself, pervading both the animate and inanimate. It flows through us as the vital currents—prana, apana, vyana, udana and samana—governing the energies of our body and mind. Pranayama is thus a sacred practice not just a technique but a way of aligning ourselves with the cosmic life force.
The ancient texts starting with Patanjali treat Pranayama as an indispensable part of the spiritual journey. In today’s fast-paced world where life is fraught with stress, anxiety and illness, many have turned to fleeting and harmful distractions like smoking and intoxicants in search of relief. Yet, as this book reveals, Pranayama holds the key to lasting peace and health. It begins by easing minor ailments such as colds, headaches and mental unrest and gradually leads the practitioner to a state of balance and harmony. However, it is not something to be grasped through mere intellectual discourse. It must be practiced with patience, care and devotion.
The author wonderfully expounds upon the true meaning of yoga. Derived from the Sanskrit root "yuj," yoga means to bind, to join, to unite. It is the union of the soul with the divine, the alignment of the scattered forces of the mind into a state of reflection and clarity. The eight limbs of yoga—Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi—are the steps on this sacred journey and each is explained in great detail within this work.
The section on breath, its nature and how few truly understand the art of breathing is especially illuminating. Some times I feel like asking myself a simple yet profound question: "Do I know how to breathe?"
The author further points out that poor posture, emotional imbalances and neglect of our respiratory muscles all contribute to improper breathing, which in turn diminishes our vitality.
The author also delves into the intricate systems of nadis and chakras, which govern the flow of prana within the body. Of the 350,000 nadis mentioned in the Siva Samhita, fourteen are considered significant, with the three most vital being Sushumna, Ida and Pingala.
B.K.S. Iyengar, the author of this work, is widely regarded as one of the foremost teachers of yoga in the world, bringing this ancient knowledge to the West. His teachings have been transformative for countless practitioners and his insights into Pranayama are invaluable.
The book ‘Light on Pranayama’ is a treasure trove of wisdom, offering profound insights into the ancient art of breathing and life force control. It has deepened my understanding of Pranayama and how to practice it correctly. I would give it a rating of nine out of ten for its clarity, depth and the invaluable lessons it imparts.
These reflections are but my own humble interpretation and I welcome inputs and suggestions from readers. I thank you for your time and consideration of these thoughts and I deeply respect any differing perspectives that may arise.
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Thanks and regards,
Mainak Majumdar, Book Critic
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