Light on Pranayama

Light on Pranayama elaborates on the ancient practice of pranayama. The term, which is loosely translated as ‘life force’, deals with the practice of regulation of one’s breath. There are different types of pranayama, such as Bhastrika, Kapalbhati, and Nadi shodan.

Research shows that regular practice of pranayama is beneficial in dealing with asthma as well as stress-related disorders like anxiety and depression. If performed correctly under the right supervision, it can help bring harmony between the body, mind and spirit, making one physically, mentally, and spiritually strong.

Light on Pranayama is authored by B. K.S. Iyengar, who is a prime authority in the field of yoga. The book provides guideline for a programme that is spread out over 200 weeks. It requires 15-30 minutes of daily practice on the part of the user. It is well-illustrated, carrying 190 photographs of the front, side, back and top angles of various depictions by Iyengar. There is also a comprehensive glossary section discussing various terms.

The book was published by Element in 2005, and is available in paperback.

Key Features:

The book is well-illustrated, with 190 photos for the benefit of the reader.
There is a 33-page section of glossary, explaining various important terms.

B.K.S. Iyengar is a widely-respected yoga teacher. HE is the founder of Iyengar yoga and is considered as one of the foremost authorities on the subject. He is widely credited for taking yoga to the West. Besides Light on Pranayama, he has authored other books like Light on Yoga and Light on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. His teaching practice has been highly influential over the decades. Iyengar was awarded the Padma Shri in 1991, the Padma Bhushan in 2002 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2014. He lives and teaches in Pune, India.