Pranayama

Pranayama is one of the key practices of yoga, and is particularly effective in opening up the Chakras. It may seem strange that breathing exercises can affect consciousness, that was certainly my bias going into this practice, although there has been scientific research done in this area since the 70s that validates the claim. Dr Stanislav Grof, one of the first researchers in pychedelic psychotherapy with LSD back in the 50's and 60's, and one of the founders (along with Abraham Maslow) of Transpersonal Psychology, developed the idea of 'holotropic' states, where non-pathological "non-ordinary states of consciousness" yield a therapeutic outcome, in some cases releasing repressed traumas (see Grof Psychology of the Future: Lessons from Modern Consciousness Research). His therapy involves inducing these holotropic states through what he terms "Holotropic Breathwork," the primary component is a circular breathing method that induces a state of hyperventilation. This appears to be very similar to the Pranayamic practices of Bhastrika and Kapalabhati. Another similar approach is Rebirthing Breathwork, developed by Leonard Orr, which also utilizes circular breathing techniques, releases repressed trauma, and induces re-experiencing of the birth process. What is interesting is that these processes also evoke experiences of a transpersonal nature.

In my experience in working with Pranayama, the effects have been subtle but tangible. Taking into account the fact that sometimes we see what we want to see, unconsciously find ways to meet our expectations, I do discern a real shift in my consciousness. I find that I am more aware of my bodily feelings and emotional states, am more sensitive to subtle changes in feeling or mood. I am more aware of "body feedback" lately, and am eating less as a result. I can't say if my metabolism has changed (it probably has), although I think it is equally possible that I had been eating more than was necessary in the past, and now am more aware when I am sated or have eaten too much. Having meditated off and on for most of my adult life, I am familiar with ongoing changes to my overall attitude and outlook on life, my wants and desires diminishing the more I practice. I have noticed a pronounced change in my attitude since I began my Pranayama practice. As an example, although normally a voracious reader, I find of late that I am not as interested in reading as I normally am, and as I typically do not watch television (and am even less tolerant of watching it now), I am generally more bored and restless. I am also less interested in following the news and current events, favoring silence (mouna) during drive time, rather than listening to NPR or music.