Moonlady Yoga

The act of breathing is the essence of life itself.

Despite differing theories and terminology, both Eastern and Western perspectives agree on fundamental principles.

Breath is synonymous with life, as without it, life ceases to exist. It is not only essential for the well-being and vitality of higher animals but also crucial for the survival of lower animal forms and even plant life, which relies on air for sustained existence.

From the first inhalation of an infant to the last exhalation of an elderly person, every breath marks a significant moment in the journey of life. Breathing shapes our existence, as life can be seen as a continuous series of breaths.

Above all bodily functions, breathing holds utmost importance. All other bodily functions depend on it. While a person can survive without food for some time and without water for a shorter duration, the absence of breath limits survival to mere minutes.

Not only is man reliant on breath for life, but the quality of breathing habits also greatly influences vitality and disease prevention. A conscious mastery of our breath extends our time on Earth by enhancing vitality and resistance. Conversely, unconscious and careless breathing diminishes vitality, making us susceptible to illness.

In the natural state, man instinctively knew how to breathe correctly, much like animals and children. However, the advent of civilization has altered this and other innate habits. Improper postures while walking, standing, and sitting have robbed us of the natural and proper way of breathing, leading to a high cost of civilization. Presently, only a small percentage of people in civilized societies breathe correctly, resulting in constricted chests, stooped shoulders, and a significant rise in respiratory diseases, including the dreaded consumption, or tuberculosis. Esteemed authorities claim that one generation of individuals practicing correct breathing would rejuvenate the entire human race, making disease a rarity. The connection between correct breathing and health is evident and explicable from both Eastern and Western perspectives.

Western teachings emphasize the strong link between physical health and correct breathing. Eastern teachings not only acknowledge the correctness of their Western counterparts but also assert that correct breathing not only benefits physical health but also enhances mental faculties, happiness, self-control, clarity of vision, morality, and even spiritual growth. The “Science of Breath” forms the foundation of entire schools of Oriental Philosophy. When the Western world grasps this knowledge and applies it practically, the combination of Eastern theory and Western practice will yield remarkable results.

This work explores the Yogi “Science of Breath,” encompassing Western physiological and hygienic knowledge as well as the occult aspects of the subject. It not only guides individuals toward physical health through practices like “deep breathing” recognized by Western scientists but also delves into lesser-known dimensions, unveiling how Hindu Yogis gain control over their bodies, expand their mental capacities, and nurture their spiritual sides through the “Science of Breath.”

Yogis engage in exercises that grant them mastery over their bodies, enabling them to direct increased vital force or “prana” to specific organs or body parts, thereby strengthening and invigorating them. They possess the same understanding as their Western scientific counterparts regarding the physiological effects of correct breathing. However, they also possess knowledge of “prana,” an energy principle unfamiliar to the Western world. Yogis fully grasp the essence and manipulation of this potent energy and comprehend its impact on the human body and mind. They understand that rhythmic breathing aligns individuals with the harmonious vibrations of nature, facilitating the awakening of dormant abilities. They also recognize that controlled breathing not only aids in self-healing and healing others but also diminishes fear, worry, and base emotions.

In unity,
Moonlady.Yoga