In the previous article titled “Eleven-step Pranayama – Tenth Pranava”, we discussed the tenth step i.e., closing the retention of breath with the utterance of tenth Om. Once done, we start exhaling in absolute silence.
In this article, we will discuss the eleventh and the final step– i.e., absolute silence.
Silent exhalation: The Power of silence
Silence, often underestimated, plays a pivotal role in the practice of Pranayama. It’s more than just the absence of sound; it’s a profound state of inner peace and focus.
Why silence: In the “eleven step pranayama” of Vedic tradition – for the inhalation & retention of breath, the mind was engaged in contemplation of various levels of our own consciousness & the supreme consciousness. Now while exhaling the breath, we maintain absolute silence to observe the profound state of inner peace which has risen due to such contemplation.
A spiritual exercise: Without the silent exhalation, all that we have gained in the contemplation is lost and our pranayama becomes a mundane breathing exercise. But with focused contemplation and ending with silent exhalation – our pranayama becomes a spiritual exercise.
Profoundness: Silence allows you to tune into the subtle sounds of your body, starting with our own outgoing breath, the rhythm of our heartbeat and the very experience of being alive! Silence facilitates the free flow of prana, or life force energy, through the subtle energy channels of the body. This is very crucial in elevating our awareness of the body and the whole of creation. This not only balances the energy system of the body, but dissolves the mind – allowing us to observe the reality without the veil of mind.
With this exhalation, one cycle of Vedic pranayama is complete.
Kundalini Yoga:
In Kundalini Yoga, breath is used as a tool for awakening energies in the body. The technique is to push the energies from Muladhara Chakra upwards towards Sahasrara Chakra.
But in Vedic Pranayama, the technique of regulating the breath is to contemplate on different levels of existence and Parabrahma itself.
Though the end goal is the same, we must appreciate difference in techniques.
Why Vedic pranayama?
As one may observe, in Vedic tradition, pranayama is not a mere breath-exercise. Instead, it involves higher contemplation which elevates our consciousness to different levels of existence.
A Systematic Approach: Vedic Pranayama involves a ten-step process, each step corresponding to a specific plane of existence.
Mental Journey: As practitioners progress through the steps, their minds journey through different dimensions of consciousness.
Divine Connection: The final steps of the process are believed to lead to a direct connection with the divine.
The “Vedic Tribe” is happy to have brought you this profound knowledge and guiding you through this eleven-step process. By understanding and practicing this technique, you will unlock the full potential of pranayama and experience its transformative effects.
All the best.
Madhwesh K
Vedic Tribe
