Pranayama is the fourth limb of Patanjali’s yoga, bridging body and mind. Techniques like alternate nostril breathing calm the senses and awaken inner energy. In poetry, pranayama appears as the art of mastering the subtle breath—the thread linking mortal life to cosmic rhythm. Poets describe it as taming the wind within, stilling thought, and kindling the inner fire. It symbolizes discipline, awareness, and the harnessing of vital energy for spiritual ascent.

Pranayama is the fourth limb of Patanjali's Ashtanga Yoga. It involves the conscious regulation and control of the breath (prana). Prana means "life force," and ayama means "to extend or draw out." By mastering the breath, the yogi gains control over the subtle life energy, which calms the mind and prepares it for the higher stages of meditation (Dharana, Dhyana, Samadhi). It is the bridge between body and mind.