The Power of Breath
The Art of Breathing Well for Harmony, Happiness and Health
To buy the book: The Power of Breath
A book by Swami Saradananda
Many years ago, my teacher, Swami Vishnu-devananda, instructed me to do 100 rounds of alternate nostril daily. I think he greatly exaggerated the number in the hopes that I would do “something”. At the time I believed him and tried to do it. My intensity was short-lived. However it did open a new world of practice for me. In “The Power of Breath” I have tried to inspire readers to begin or intensify their pranayama practice.
“The Power of Breath” is written as an entry level book, but its appeal is to a wider audience of practitioners on all levels. It is the only book in modern, easily-understandable language to discuss the five pranas in detail. In addition to the theory of the different subtle energies, the book supplies a wealth of practical exercises to enrich your daily life.
This book is extremely practical, with supporting theory presented as well. I have tried to make the writing style clear and extremely approachable. The language can be easily understood by people with little previous experience of yoga or breathing exercises. Yet the teachings are not over-simplified; the book presents many in-depth practices.
In “The Power of Breath”, I have explained the basics of breathing and the connections between the breath and the subtle body. I hope it will help you to rediscover natural breathing to maximize your intake of oxygen and rid your body of waste products. Over 30 life-enriching breathing exercises are given, each one beautifully illustrated for clarity and maximum visual appeal. There is also a section of mini breathing programs which will help you to specifically target common ailments and issues such as asthma, skin disorders, depression, lethargy and phobias, as well as harnessing your breath to enhance vocal, dramatic or sports performance.
Readers’ Comments on "The Power of Breath":
Take a deep breath and dive into Swami Saradananda’s exploration of pranayama. Saradananda, former director of Sivananda Yoga centers around the world, goes beyond fundamentals... There’s lots of information packed into this small book, but go slow, and you might ignite a regular pranayama practice.
~ Richard Rosen in Yoga Journal, Oct 2009
At last, a book on breath that can be used to inform both my personal practice and my teaching. Swami Sarandananda’s beautifully written and illustrated book takes you through all the aspects of breath and Pranayama, explaining in simple language the intricate links between breath, energy, asana, mudra and bandhas and the physical and emotional self. This book goes every where with me and is a must have for all yoga teachers and serious students!
~ Patricia Ezechie, Yogastickmen.com
Om Swamiji thank you for the Power of the Breath book its given me a new inspiration for practicing Pranayama ! (I think Im getting the hang of it)
~ Bhavani, London
A must-have!
~ Christine, New York City
I am a yoga teacher myself, have taught yoga worldwide in English, Spanish and German. I am based in New York City where I reside. Swami Saradananda's book is so beautifully written that I keep recommending it in my yoga classes. The students who buy it just love this book. I can recommend it to yoga students and yoga teachers alike. Swami Saradananda gives the most inspiring seminars and yoga courses all over the world. The first time I took her inspirational classes is about 20 years ago and was in London. Then I took one of her classes in New York a few years ago. I suggest you get a group together and have her teach one of her most amazing seminars or listen to her speak but if you can't do that right now get at least get her amazing book 'The Power of Breath'. It is for beginners, intermediate and advance levels alike.
Wonderful and clear.
~ Joseph, New York City
I have tried to read many books on this subject but this is the only one which I read from the beginning to the end. It makes me keep practicing! The author is a big inspiration to anyone!
To buy the book In the U.K.: The Power of Breath In Estonia: Hingamise jõud In U.S.A.: The Power of Breath In India: The Power of Breath In Germany: Atem - Kraftquelle deines Lebens In Spain: El arte de respirar bien In Brazil: Os Segredos da Respiração In Russia: The Power of Breath In Estonia: Hingamise jõud In Korea: The Power of Breath In France: L'Art de la respiration In Quebec: L'Art de la respiration
