mainly during retention of the breath; and vyana governs its circulation. Apana rules exhalation, particularly with regard to the release of carbon dioxide. Udana controls exhalation by releasing positive energy through the breath, for example in speech or song.

Prana and the Mind

Mental energy is derived from food, breath, and the impressions we take in from the external world. Prana governs the intake of sensory impressions, samana governs their mental digestion, and vyana governs mental circulation. Apana rules the elimination of toxic ideas and negative emotions. Udana provides positive mental energy, strength, and enthusiasm.

On a psychological level, prana governs our receptivity to positive sources of nourishment, feeling, and knowledge through the mind and senses. When deranged it causes unhealthy desires and insatiable cravings, and we become misguided, misdirected, andallows us to act. We must learn to be open to and welcome this greater force and seek to bring it more fully into our life and actions. This is one of the greatest secrets of yoga.

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David Frawley
Dr. David Frawley (Pandit Vamadeva Shastri) D. Litt., Padma Bhushan is a western born teacher or guru in the Vedic tradition. In India, Vamadeva is recognized as a Vedacharya (Vedic teacher), and includes in his scope of studies Ayurveda, Yoga, Vedanta and Vedic astrology, as well as the ancient Vedic teachings going back to the oldest Rigveda.

Vamadeva is a rare recipient of the prestigious Padma Bhushan award, one of the highest civilian awards granted by the government of India,