Prana is defined as a universal energy that flows in currents in and around the body. Prana is seen to flow in everything in existence. Prana is seen to regulate all physical functions like breathe, the supply of oxygen, digestion, elimination and much more. The human body is seen as a transformer that received energy from the Universal flow of Prana, which then distributes the energy and eliminates it.
There are ten main functions in which Prana is divided into. The first half of Prana is the five Pranas:
- Prana, this functionality of Prana aims to supply the human body with essential oxygen. This is the energy that flows from nostrils to the heart.
- Apana, the functionality of the Apana Prana is to influence the lower part of the body starting from the navel to the soles of the feet. Most diseases that affect the lower abdomen, intestines, kidneys, etc. are usually because the Apana Prana is disturbed as it plays a regulatory role in the elimination process.
- Udana, this Prana flows from the heart to the head and brain. With this Prana, the Astral body can separate itself from the physical body.
- Vyana, this Prana generally flows through the humans nerve channels. This Prana has an effect on the whole body specially the Nadis. If there is any poor circulation of this Prana it impairs the nerve stimulation and increases the likelihood of nervous breakdowns.
- Samana, this is a very important Prana that connects the Anahata and Manipura Chakras. It helps distribute nutritional energies throughout the human body.
The second half of the division of Prana are the five Upa-Pranas:
- Naga, which is commonly known as burping, this removes any blockages of Prana and Apana and it helps decrease any gas formation that may occur in the digestive system. This is because any suppression of Naga can lead to Cardiac Arrhythmia.
- Kurma, which is blinking is only active when we are awake and gets revitalized when we are asleep. This Prana protects the eye from the penetration of dust and foreign bodies.
- Devadatta, is yawning that releases gas and further reduces exhaustion after eating.
- Krikala, which is sneezing that assists with clearing any blockages in your respiratory system. The act of sneezing has been proven to ease headaches that may be caused from any blockages that may be found in one’s head and neck. Suppressing a sneeze can have a negative effect on the vertebrae in the cervical spine.
- Dhananjaya, which is the opening and closing of the heart valves. This Prana is found close to the heart and plays an influential role in the whole body, particularly the muscles of the heart by opening and closing the hearts valves.
Prana is deemed to be neutral and pure and during its flow throughout the body it collects many substances that affect the quality of the Prana. The departure of Prana from an individual’s body is therefore dependent on each individual’s life, the food they eat, their inner qualities, feelings and the environment in which they reside. Every individuals Prana can have an effect on other people and can subsequently impact anyone they come into contact with.
