Benefits of Pranayama

Apart from regular exercise and eating right, the state of one’s mind is quite crucial for weight loss. Pranayama is an ancient Indian practice that many people, world overattribute their health and fit body to. ‘Prana’ in Sanskrit means basic life force or energy and ‘Ayama’ means to control or regulate. Prananyamaessentially involves controlling the drift of life force within us through breathing techniques. Pranayama affects all spheres of life; it enhances both mental and physical well being. By following some simple principles and techniques, everyone can enjoy the many benefits that Pranayama has to offer. The simple concept of pranayama is thatfully oxygenated blood is taken to every cell in the body so that prana is carried everywhere.
Pranayama has been known to relievestress, depression and hypertension; the very evil factors that add to binge eating and which also make weight loss tough. With regular practice, Pranayama also gives us a sense of well being and a more positive outlook towards ourselves and the world around us. It is very important to believe that you are capable of losing weight and thisconfidence and enthusiasm becomes a part of us with pranayama.
Pranayama relaxes the body and mind so that you feel refreshed and rejuvenated, this way comfort food or high calorie food cravings will not occur frequently. It also improves digestion process so that nutrients are broken down better and body stays healthy and robust. Pranayama techniques help in augmenting the BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate), which accounts for the amount of energy expended by us while at rest. Every aspect, like this one goes a long way in accelerating weight loss. The results are eventual and not drastic, which is always a healthier way to lose weight permanently.
Muscles and joints become less stiff with pranayama; it also thoroughly oxygenates every organ and muscle, increasing our capacity to exercise. What is even better is that with pranayama, the body seldom feels drained and fatigued after strenuous exercise, thereby allowing us to do even those last few crunches too without having to feel like it’s a herculean task.
The Pranayama postures and techniques help in purifying blood and flushing out toxins and wastes from the body. Skin starts to look so much clearer and the immune system gets strengthened too. With pranayama, a better control of our mind and body is handed over to us. You will start to feel light and agile; your hands will grab the healthy snack and not the oily, calorie loaded stuff. You will experience better rest while sleeping and better concentration while workingby practicing pranayama devotedly.
Patience and meticulous dedication are important for practices like Yoga and Pranayama because they don’t show results over night. Including pranayama in our regime is a holistic approach towards weight loss, because its benefits are manifold. It not only directly accelerates weigh loss due to its physiological and bio chemical influence, but also gives us the right attitude and motivation towards shedding those extra kilos.