Yoga and Ayurveda: Apana Vayu
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In the next few weeks, we’re turning our attention to the five pranas, also known as the five vāyus. This week, apana vayu, the downward-moving wind.
The seat of apāna vāyu is the colon and the pelvic cavity, which is the seat of vāta in the body. Apāna vāyu moves from below the navel, and expels downward and outward, governing micturition, parturition, menstruation, ejaculation, and defecation.
Its function is dharana--holding or retention. Thanks to the proper action of apāna vāyu, we are able to hold our urine and stool until we find a suitable place to pass them. Also thanks to apāna vāyu, the fetus is safely held in the womb.
Interestingly, we cultivate dhārana in our spiritual practice as a prerequisite for dhyana. The practice of meditation cultivates prāna and udāna vāyus, the inward and upward moving energies, to aid in the upward movement of the kundalini shakti. Since apāna is the downward energy, it runs counter to this vector. Thus, many yogic, tantric and Taoist lineages discourage ejaculation, as it is a strong downward movement of apāna. While most yogic traditions mandate brahmacharya or celibacy, tantric and Taoist practices encourage men to engage in sexual practices without ejaculation. This is said to cultivate higher levels of bliss and energy, which then can be directed towards spiritual attainment and realization.
Common disorders of apāna vāyu include constipation, gas and bloating, menstrual disorders, prostate issues and bladder problems, including stress incontinence.
The star remedy for apāna vāyu is triphala, a combination of three special medicinal fruits. Steep half a teaspoon of triphala in a cup of boiling water for at least ten minutes, strain or decant and drink on an empty stomach, early morning or at bedtime.
And for today’s yoga tip, the best practice for apāna vāyu is Ashwini mudra. This practice is designed to strengthen the dharana function of apāna vāyu, benefitting both your health and your spiritual practice.
Alakananda Ma M.B., B.S. (Lond.) is an Ayurvedic Doctor (NAMA) and graduate of a top London medical school. She is co-founder of Alandi Ayurveda Clinic and Alandi Ayurveda Gurukula in Boulder Colorado, as well as a spiritual mother, teacher, flower essence maker and storyteller. Alakananda is a well known and highly respected practitioner in the Ayurveda community both nationally and internationally.
Enliven your holistic health! Visit Alakananda Ma in Alandi Ashram’s ayurvedic clinic to support the overall rejuvenation of your body, mind, and spirit. In-person and virtual appointments available. Book now!
