Prana-The Life Force

 

In Vedic dharma, the life force of a human is known as "Prana." According to Vedic philosophy, Prana is the vital energy that sustains life. It is located primarily in the region of the chest and extends throughout the body.

Prana is constituted of five main vayus (vital airs): The word "Vāyu" (Sanskrit: वायु) refers to the wind or air in Sanskrit. The etymology and root of this word are as follows:

1.  Root: The word "Vāyu" is derived from the Sanskrit root "√vā" (वा), which means "to blow."

2.  Suffix: The suffix "yu" is added to the root, forming "Vāyu."

3.  Meaning: As a result, "Vāyu" literally means "the blower" or "that which blows," and it is commonly used to refer to the wind or the deity associated with the wind in Sanatana dharma

Prana Vayu: Located in the head and responsible for inhalation, governing the intake of energy.

Apana Vayu: Located in the pelvic region and responsible for elimination, governing downward and outward movement.

Vyana Vayu: Extends throughout the whole body and is responsible for circulation, governing the movement of prana throughout the body.

Udana Vayu: Located in the throat and responsible for speech, expression, and upward movement.

Samana Vayu: Located in the abdomen and responsible for digestion and assimilation, governing inward and outward movement.

These vayus are not just physical in nature but also have subtle energetic functions related to the mind and consciousness in Vedic thought.