Article
- SMOKE SIGNALS
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Question: What
do two behaviors, the Indian science of breath
control - 'pranayama' - and cigarette smoking,
have in common?
Definitions:
1.
'Smoking'
The act of
deeply inhaling specific vapours slowly into the
chest cavity, often withholding said smoke for a
brief but considerable time, prior to a slightly
exaggerated exhalation. This exercise has been
practiced in many countries for thoughts of
years. Uses: Stress relief.
2.
'Pranayama'
The act of
deeply inhaling oxygen into the chest cavity at
various rates and rhythms. The breath is often
withheld - 'rechaka' - before being expelled.
This exercise known to have been practiced for
thousands of years in many countries. Uses:
Nervous system control; stress relief; physical,
mental, spiritual, psychological
regeneration.
