Prana, often described as the vital life force, moves through the body along channels known as nadis, primarily residing in the Pranamaya Kosha—the sheath of energy that links body and mind (Yoga Breeze Bali; Online Yoga School). Our experience of breath, sensation, and aliveness is shaped by this underlying current (Yoga International).
The ancient yogic tradition recognizes five primary expressions of prana in the body—called the prana vayus. Each vayu represents a distinct current or function: intake (prana), elimination (apana), assimilation (samana), expression (udana), and circulation (vyana) (Yoga International; Online Yoga School). This map gives us language for subtle experiences and helps attune our self-awareness on and off the mat (Clara Roberts-Oss).
🗺️ Snapshot: The Five Vayus
Prana Vayu: Centered in the chest and heart, moves inward and upward—governing intake, inspiration, and drawing in life force (Yoga International; Clara Roberts-Oss).
Apana Vayu: Located in the pelvis, moves downward and outward—responsible for elimination, grounding, and letting go (Yoga International; Shvasa).
Samana Vayu: Centered at the navel, draws energy toward the center—guiding digestion, assimilation, and balance (Yoga International; Stillness in Yoga).
Udana Vayu: Rising through the throat and head, moves upward—associated with expression, growth, and development (Yoga International; Lauren Leduc).
Vyana Vayu: All-pervading, radiates in all directions—circulation, integration, and the sense of energetic wholeness (Yoga International; Clara Roberts-Oss).
🌊 The Vayus in the Subtle Body
The five vayus function within a subtle energetic matrix alongside the koshas (layers or sheaths of being), nadis (channels), and chakras (energy centers) (Yoga Breeze Bali; Online Yoga School). They are like five currents within one vast ocean, inseparable yet individually felt.
🧭 Where to Go Next
Curious how to sense and shape these energies in practice? Article 2 explores everyday vayu practices, while Article 3 weaves the currents together with bandhas, chakras, and more (Yoga International).
— MJH
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