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Prana Vidya
The two great aspects of existence are energy (prana) and consciousness (cit). Prana in the form of energy exists everywhere within the body and outside the body. The knowledge and application to control the flow of prana resulting in greater health and awareness is known as Prana Vidya.
According to yogic thought, there are five sheaths surrounding the soul. The life energy sheath that resides between the mental and physical sheaths is called pranamaya kosa. It contains thousands of subtle nadis, or pathways through which prana flows. This kosa penetrates the physical body.
Through yogic practices, the subtle sheath expands. This expansion increases the vital energy for health on all levels. As prana increases, one becomes aware of an even subtler body, the causal body, the sheath of blissful knowledge. Since prana is the life force within the body, mind, and spirit, prana vidya develops the depth of insight to awaken consciousness.
To progress in Prana Vidya (knowledge of prana), the TriYoga trinity of pranayama (breathing practices), dharana (concentration), and dhyana (meditation) are systematically practiced beginning with Basics and progressing through Level 7.