Pranayama Breathing is better for Brain Function

Abstract

Pranayama (breathing exercises) has been practiced in India for more than several centuries. It is spreading all over the world due to its benefits on structural and functional aspects of all tissues in the body, specifically on cardio-respiratory system. Although the shortterm effects of pranayama is on the respiratory system, the long-term effect has shown to improve nervous system, circulatory system, endocrine system, and helps to maintain homeostasis of internal organs and their functions [1,2]. It provides a balance between sympathetic and parasympathetic physiology of the body. Although the ancient practitioners of pranayama never dissected or studied the internal organs of the body, they felt the changes taking place due to practice of pranayama. They also have developed the proper practicing modules and sequences for each of the pranayama exercises.