Query on Pranayama
Question
Hello,
I was seeking a few clarifications.
1. Why should the Pranayama practice be of 6 cycles? What are the effects if more or less than 6 cycles are practised?
2. What is the significance of 8, 16, 24, 32 (multiples of 8) seconds of holding the breath during Pranayama?
Regards,
Ganesh
Answer
1. The prescribed Pranayama is a general approach, which applies to a wide range of people with different bodily, mental and karmic constitutions.
2. Even numbers represent symmetry and form the basis of all that is created (manifest). There is always a reaction to any action in nature, these being within the realm of duality. The body and mind, being a part of the manifest, also come within this purview of duality. Hence it follows that the procedure of Pranayama uses even numbers.
ॐ तत् सत्
(That Supreme being is the absolute truth)