167. Prachardhana? from the Iceman?
In the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, Sutra 1:34 offers profound insight into the use of breathwork as a means to steady the mind. The sutra emphasizes the power of working with the breath, particularly focusing on exhalation and retention, to cultivate concentration and inner calm. While the term prachardhana references exhalation and vidhāraṇa retention, this may not necessarily mean literal breath control but rather the symbolic or energetic aspect of focusing on the life force (prana).
The word pranayama itself breaks down into prana, meaning breath or life force, and ayama, meaning extension or expansion. Together, pranayama refers to the practice of consciously regulating and extending the breath, a cornerstone of yogic discipline. Yet, as many practitioners have observed, including Jeff through the teachings of Sri O.P. Tiwari, pranayama can be one of the most challenging aspects of yoga to sustain. Despite its transformative power, it is often the first practice to fade when life becomes overwhelming, as it demands both discipline and focus, and the benefits to body and mind are very subtle.
The modern adaptation of breathwork, such as the technique popularized by Wim Hof (the Iceman), provides an accessible entry point to understanding the principles of Sutra 1:34. Wim Hof’s method incorporates exhalation and retention in a way that is both practical and impactful, allowing even beginners to experience the calming and clarifying effects of breath control. The practice involves cycles of deep breathing, intentional exhales, and breath retention, which can quickly be done while lying down. It serves as a reminder of the profound connection between breath and mental steadiness, offering a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern application.
For those new to breathwork, Wim Hof’s beginner-friendly practices are an excellent way to explore the power of controlled breathing. Jeff often highlights this as a way to experience the stilling of the mind that Sutra 1:34 speaks about. A link to Wim Hof’s free YouTube breathing session will be provided for those who wish to begin their journey with this accessible yet profound practice. Through breathwork, we gain the tools to calm our minds and deepen our connection to the timeless teachings of yoga.
