Prāna – Energy, Life force, breath and Āyāma – Extension, Lengthening, Expansion, Regulation, and Restraint are the pillars for guiding us toward Meditation (Dhyāna). The four points of the breath are the in-breath (pūraka), the out-breath (rechaka), and retention (kumbhaka) on both ends. Breathing exercises (Prāṇāyāma) invigorate the body and the mind and activate the soul. These practices are prescribed to practitioners that have minimum 3-5 years asana experience prior to receiving Breathing Exercise (Prāṇāyāma). B.K.S. Iyengar states, “The practice of prāṇāyāma develops a steady mind, strong will power and sound Judgement”(Light on Prāṇāyāma B.K.S. Iyengar p 12)