Why is pranayam an ideal way to begin the day?

The word pranayam is made up of two words, pran and ayama. The word pran means the vital breath or vital air. The word ayama denotes regulation or control. So, pranayam means regulated or controlled breathing. The purpose of pranayam is to take full advantage of the vital breath. Pranayam is an important part of Asthang Yoga.

Maharishi Patanjali has said: The process of inhaling and exhaling step by step, first inhaling air deeply into the lungs, holdings it there for some time and then exhaling, is known as pranayam.

In the Manusmriti, pranayam is praised as: Just as fire removes the impurities of gold, silver and other metals when they are heated to high temperatures, in the same way pranayam removes waste matters not only enhancing effectiveness of the senses, but also cleansing the body and the mind and removing disorders. It helps bring the body and senses in control.

In the Yogdarshan, 2/52, it is said: Pranayam removes the film of ignorance covering wisdom in an individual.

In the Yogchudamani it is said that pranayam burns sins. It is a bridge to cross the ocean of life.

The basic purpose of pranayam is to widen the path of spiritual attainment. It is equally important for physical and emotional well-being. Though pranayam one generate additional inner strength and energy and promotes mental peace. By clearing the mind of waste matters, it improves memory and mental faculties.

From the scientific point of view, controlled breathing through pranayam improves the flow of blood to various parts of the body. This improves the functioning of these parts promoting good health. Controlled breathing helps pump more blood through the body than is possible through any other exercise .