THE SCIENCE OF BREATH: PRANAYAMA AND ITS AYURVEDIC ROLE IN CARDIOVASCULAR AND RESPIRATORY HARMONY

Pranayama, a key component of Yoga, is an ancient method that emphasizes conscious breath management to balance the mind, body, and spirit. In Ayurveda, breath (Prana) is considered the essential life force that sustains physiological functions. Contemporary research is progressively supporting the efficacy of pranayama in improving cardiovascular and respiratory function by improving autonomic regulation, oxygenation, and stress resilience. This article investigates the physiological, psychological, and Ayurvedic foundations of pranayama in the promotion of cardiovascular and respiratory health, drawing on both historical Ayurvedic sources and recent scientific results.