Hints and Cautions
Read and digest thoroughly the following hints and cautions before
attempting the pdinayama • techniques mentioned later.
Qualifications for fitness
r. Just as post-graduate trammg depends upon the ability and
discipline acquired in mastering the subject in which one graduated,
so pra�ayama training demands mastery of asanas and the strength
and discipline arising therefrom.
- The fitness of the aspirant for training and advancement in
Pra�ayama is to be gauged by an experienced Guru or teacher and his
personal supervision is essential.
3· Pneumatic tools can cut through the hardest rock. In Pr�ayama
the yogi uses his lungs as pneumatic tools. If they are not used properly,
they destroy both the tool and the person using it. The same is true
of pr�ayama.
Cleanliness and Food
4· One does not enter a temple with a dirty body or mind. Before
entering the temple of his own body, the yogi observes the rules of
cleanliness.
5· Before starting pra�ayama practices the bowels should be evacuated
and the bladder emptied. This leads to comfort in the bandhas.- Preferably pra�ayama should be practised on an empty stomach,
but if this is difficult, a cup of milk, tea, coffee or cocoa may be taken.
Allow at least six hours to elapse after a meal before practising
pra�ayama. - - -
7. Light food may be taken half an hour after finishing pra�ayama
practices.
Time and Place- The best time for practice is in the early morning (preferably before
sunrise) and after sunset. According to the Ha?�a Yoga Pradipika,
pra�ayama should be practised four times a day, in the early morning,