Introduction To Pranayama
with Vicki Shields
Introduction to Pranayama
Life can be messy. Often our minds can feel pulled in so many directions, conflicted and triggered by things that throw us off balance. What we do know, however, is that by regulating the breath and then expanding it, (Pranayama ) we develop our innate superpower, a way to transform the mind. A means to bring the body back into balance.
During this video, you will be introduced to why the breath shifts the activity of the ANS. How Prānāyāma, the expansion of our life force energy is a true gift that holds the power to really transform one’s state and behaviour, if practiced with sincerity and dedication.
Through repeated practice Prānāyāma, is a means of taking our attention inwards (Pratyahara), from here we cultivate the pause, the ability to focus and concentrate (Dharana) for longer periods, to eventually experience Meditation (Dhyana, Samadhi).
Course curriculum
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What Is Pranayama?
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About this course
- Free
- 1 lesson
- 0 hours of video content
Instructor(s)
Vicki SHIELDS
Senior Yoga Teacher, TrainerPRO
My yoga journey started somewhere in the 90's with a passion to understand how to break free from the conditioning of the mind and balance the functions of the body. Even though I have taken an intensive dive into Yoga Asana studying with the world's leading authorities in the ashtanga vinyasa method including studying in Mysore with Pattabhi Jois, it was my journey into the inner limbs that began to really transform my life. Prānāyāma is a true gift and holds a power to really transform one’s state and behaviour if practiced with sincerity and dedication over time. The breath is our superpower. Through repeated practice and greater understanding it grows within.
I am now fortunate to be one of the few westerners to be a direct student of Sri OP Tiwari, one of the few remaining Yogic Masters and sources on authentic teachings of the science and philosophy of Hatha Yoga and Prānāyāma in the world today. I have spent the last few decades on annual trips to India and Thailand furthering my knowledge, and deepening my understanding. At Kaivalydhama, where Swami Kuvalayananda pioneered scientific research into Yoga, I take Anusthana with Tiwariji, learning the auspicious fire ceremony and mantra recitation, along with philosophy, and the importance of Ayurveda. Here I have gained knowledge of the pranic pulse and how to diagnose the correct pranayama practices for each individual student.
Evolve Yoga Training has grown from the desire to share this knowledge. Leading these trainings gives me an opportunity to pass on the science, philosophy and wisdom that my teachers have shared. I feel very blessed to have teachers whose knowledge love and direction has given me a deep insight into classical Yoga and it’s approach to overcoming the limitations of the mind. I am first and foremost a dedicated student of Yoga with the aim of facilitating students on their journey, allowing each person to practice to their own level and reach their full potential. I aim to make learning fun, as my teacher says, with sincerity not seriousness.