Exploring Prana - The Life Force Energy

Yogic Wisdom

Welcome to my blog here at Yoga with Sena, where we dive into the transformative power of yoga from my home in Shrewsbury. I have set the intention to grow this blog by introducing a yoga pose (asana) and some yogic wisdom that may be of interest to some of you as part of my monthly newsletter.

I'd like to start off our Yogic Wisdom with a broad look at the topic of prana - simply put the life force energy that is present in and around us, a subject relevant to all of us.

Many of you may have heard of Prana. This subtle life force energy animates all living beings and is present in inanimate objects and environments - think of the vibe you feel in a room you enter for the first time. In yogic philosophy, Prana is more than just the energy we have through our breath, the nutrition or rest we get ; it is the very essence of vitality that flows through us, sustaining our physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.

According to this ancient wisdom, Prana expresses itself in five distinct ways within the human body. These expressions, known as the Pancha Vayus (the Five Winds), correspond to different physiological functions and energy movements—how energy enters, circulates, transforms, supports, and ultimately leaves the body. Among them, the Prana Vayu—which governs respiration and intake—is considered the most foundational. It serves as the source from which all other Vayus emerge. Hridaya Yoga, one of the schools that provided me the invaluable education about yogic wisdom has a detailed article about the Pancha Vayus for those of you that are interested.

Pancha Vayus

While we naturally gain energy from familiar sources like food, water, and sleep, Prana is also deeply influenced by the quality of our thoughts, emotions, environments, and relationships. Yogic teachings emphasize that increasing Prana is not just about what we consume, but how we live.

Ideally, we nourish our Prana by drinking clean, mineral-rich water; eating fresh, wholesome meals rich in fruits, vegetables, and grains; practicing better breathing; resting in truly restorative sleep; cultivating a positive, peaceful state of mind; and fostering kind, supportive connections with others.

Yogic practices offer tools to enhance each of these areas. A sattvic (pure and balanced) diet supports clarity and vitality. Pranayama (breathing practices) increases our oxygen intake to expand our energetic capacity. Asana (yoga postures) keep the body supple and strong. Yoga Nidra (yogic sleep) and meditation quiet the nervous system, encouraging deep rest. Satsang (spiritual community) uplifts us through shared purpose and belonging.

By engaging in these Prana-promoting practices, we gradually begin to replenish and expand our vital energy. Whether it's improving our hydration, refining our diet, moving our body with care, or simply spending time with uplifting people, every conscious choice becomes an act of nourishment.

Equally important is reducing the activities that subtly drain our Prana. These aren't limited to poor diet or lack of sleep—they include more invisible habits, like saying “yes” when we mean “no,” ignoring our inner voice, or spending time in relationships that erode our confidence. Such patterns often lead to worry, tension, and emotional fatigue.

Many of these prana-consuming habits operate quietly in the background of our lives. But when we pause to reflect on how we speak, relate, and use our time, we begin to notice. And that noticing—that awareness—is the heart of yogic living.

Ultimately, cultivating Prana is not about rigid routines or perfection, but about becoming more conscious of how we live, breathe, eat, think, and connect. It’s about making choices that align with our inner truth. Yogic wisdom reminds us that our energy is precious—and that with mindful choices, we can nourish and protect it. When we begin to notice what uplifts us and what depletes us, we reclaim our power to live with greater vitality, clarity, and joy. By returning to this awareness again and again, we align ourselves with the flow of life itself.

Thank you for reading my blog from Yoga with Sena and exploring the concept of Prana. One of the fastest ways of increasing prana is to exercise (my suggestion for a great way to move your body is: yoga !) and practice breath-work in a safe way. Experimenting with the breath can be a fast and powerful way to elevate your prana but needs to be approached with caution, especially if you have existing medical conditions. Practicing in a safe environment with the correct guidance is important. I can help you practice safely and provide you with breathing techniques that suit your needs, through private individual or group sessions with your friends in Shrewsbury or online.

Please let me know of your experience with prana in the comments, or join me for a yoga class in Shrewsbury to deepen your journey.

Stay tuned for more tips to nurture your wellness with mindfulness and movement. Keep up to date with my news and other stories from the our yoga community.

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