Yoga for Transformation by Gary Kraftsow

Author:Gary Kraftsow
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Penguin Publishing Group
Published: 2010-03-01T00:00:00+00:00

Developing Ratio

Classically, ratios were classified as either samavṛtti, where the lengths of all four parts of the breath are equal, or viṣamavṛtti, where the lengths of the four parts of the breath are not equal. There are many possible variations that can be developed. In the classical tradition, the lengths of the breath were measured by the mental recitation of mantra. It must be remembered that these practices evolved as part of a holistic process, which included not only āsana and prāṇāyāma but chanting, meditation, prayer, and ritual as well.

If we are not working with particular mantra-s, we may measure the length of our breath by simply counting. The use of a metronome may be helpful at the beginning, especially when exploring more complex ratios. For a brief discussion on the differences and benefits of these different ratios, please see “The Basic Paradigm,” on page 131. Beyond this brief theoretical explanation, the subtleties of this complex science can be best understood through practice under the guidance of a competent teacher.

The table below shows some examples of useful ratios—demonstrated at varied levels of duration—that can be explored in personal practice. These ratios should be explored cautiously, preferably with the guidance of a trained teacher, within the boundaries of our established thresholds (see page 118), and after reading and understanding the cautions for the practice of prāṇāyāma listed on page 119.

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.