Prana, or life force, is the energy that flows within and without the body. Prana means, “that which is constantly present everywhere.” Prana refers to all forms of energy — in the body, and in the universe. According to B.K.S. Iyengar, “Prana is the energy permeating the universe at all levels. It is physical, mental, intellectual, sexual, spiritual, and cosmic energy.”

In China, prana is called chi; in Japan, it is known as ki (both pronounced “chi”). Iyengar notes that even Western Christianity has its form of prana: the Holy Spirit. The concept of prana, and even yoga itself, transcends belief systems. Energy flows everywhere. This cannot be refuted. Learning to tap into this energy and optimize its flow within the body is one of the goals of yoga.

Prana is often identified as breath, but it is more than breath. Breath acts as the vehicle for prana, moving prana in the body through energy channels called nadis. Prana enters the body through two main nadis: ida and pingala. Ida begins at the left nostril, and pingala begins at the right nostril. Ida and pingala spiral around the central nadi, sushumna, which begins at the end of the spine and travels up the spine to the crown of the head. It is only through ida and pingala, that prana normally enters the body.

Blockages in the energy channels of the body (of which there are 72,000, corresponding closely to the nerves) lead to dis-ease, highlighting the importance of clearing these channels. Yoga practice does just that. Asana practice helps to open areas of the body to energy flow, removing blockages. Essentially, asanas open the nadis. Pranayama helps to refine and facilitate the flow of prana. The breath brings prana into contact apana, or toxins, helping to remove impurities from the body. During pranayama, we breathe in prana, and we exhale apana, increasing prana within the body, leading to good health, physically, mentally, and spiritually.

As you practice asanas, or yoga postures, be aware that you are helping to open the energy channels in your body. As you bring your focus to the breath, consciously breathe in prana, and exhale apana. Elongate your exhale to facilitate this removal of toxins from the body, creating more room for prana to enter. Deepening your understanding of the yoga practice in this way will help to reinforce the positive intentions of your practice.