Significance of Controlled breathing

Controlled breathing is a technique that encompasses various practices aimed at regulating breath for spiritual and meditative purposes. In historical Indian context, it is linked to pranayama, which helps silence distractions and enhance concentration. This method also promotes spiritual development through breath retention and regulation. Scientifically, controlled breathing is recognized in yoga as a way to enhance relaxation, focus, and overall bodily functioning by consciously managing respiratory patterns.1
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Synonyms: Regulated breathing, Mindful breathing, Deep breathing, Breath control, Diaphragmatic breathing, Pranayama, Rhythmic breathing

In Dutch: Gecontroleerde ademhaling; In Finnish: Hallittu hengitys; In Spanish: Respiración controlada; In German: Kontrollierte Atmung

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Controlled breathing'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, controlled breathing, known as pranayama, involves regulating breath to enhance spiritual growth and development, serving as a key practice for achieving mental clarity and deeper meditation.

Significance in Ayurveda (science of life):
Ayurveda Books

From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences

(1) This refers to techniques like Pranayama, which involve regulating the breath to calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation, contributing to better mental health.[1] (2) The practice of regulating the breath, which is a component of Hatha Yoga, and has shown promise in improving diabetes outcomes, particularly by promoting relaxation and addressing stress-related impacts on glycemic control.[2]

Ayurveda is a branch of Indian science dealing with medicine, herbalism, taxology, anatomy, surgery, alchemy and related topics. Traditional practice of Ayurveda in ancient India dates back to at least the first millenium BC. Literature is commonly written in Sanskrit using various poetic metres.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

The concept of Controlled breathing in local and regional sources

History Books

Controlled breathing is a meditation technique that involves regulating breath patterns to enhance concentration, silence inner noise, and deepen spiritual practice, ultimately aiding in achieving a focused and tranquil state of mind.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) A meditation technique involving breath retention and regulation to aid concentration and spiritual practice.[3] (2) A technique used in meditation that involves regulating respiratory patterns to aid in silencing the inner dissonance and achieving a focused state.[4]

The concept of Controlled breathing in scientific sources

Science Books

Controlled breathing is a yoga practice involving the conscious regulation of breath to improve relaxation, enhance focus, and optimize bodily functions, highlighting its significance in promoting overall well-being and mindfulness.

Significance in Health Sciences:
Health Sciences Books

From: South African Journal of Physiotherapy

(1) This is a technique used in conjunction with the sit-walking exercises, particularly for hemiplegic patients, to help them relax and control spasms, thus improving their ability to perform the movements.[5] (2) The gentle breathing performed between the more active components of the active cycle of breathing technique, to avoid airflow obstruction.[6] (3) All the patients should be encouraged to try to ABORT any attacks of breathlessness by practicing this as soon as they have the slightest feeling of tightness or shortness of breath.[7]

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