Light on Prāṇāyāma – Session 6 Reading Unit 5

This section introduces two foundational prāṇāyāma techniques that work with natural breathing patterns while refining awareness and control. Ujjāyī, the “victorious breath,” expands the lungs fully while creating a subtle internal sound that serves as a focal point for concentration. Iyengar presents ujjāyī in progressive stages, beginning with simple awareness practices in lying positions for therapeutic benefit, gradually building to complex retention practices with bandhas for advanced practitioners. The technique serves both as preparation for meditation and as a complete practice in itself. Viloma, meaning “against the hair” or “against natural order,” introduces the concept of interrupted breathing – pausing during inhalation or exhalation to develop greater sensitivity and control. This practice trains the nervous system while building the capacity for more advanced techniques. Both practices emphasize the quality of breath over quantity, developing the subtle internal awareness necessary for deeper prāṇāyāma work.

What does “ujjāyī” literally mean and why is this breath called “victorious”?

What specific therapeutic applications does Iyengar mention for ujjāyī practice in lying positions?

In Stage II of ujjāyī, what specific instruction does Iyengar give about the movement of the eyeballs during deep inhalation?

What does “viloma” mean and how does this relate to the technique?

What comparison does Iyengar use to describe the interrupted breathing of viloma?

What do you notice about your relationship to control when practicing viloma?

What does “victory” over the breath mean to you personally in your practice?

How do you balance effort and ease when working with Ujjayi and Viloma?