Pranic healing is an ancient technique that has its roots in Eastern spiritual traditions. The word “prana” comes from Sanskrit and means life energy. The basic idea behind this form of healing, is that energy flows through the body, and if this energy flow is blocked or out of balance, illnesses can arise. Pranic healing techniques are used to regulate the flow of energy and thus activate the body’s self-healing powers. Click here to go directly to the instructions.
What is Prana?
Everything in this universe is created from the energy of prana. Prana occurs in various forms in our body. In yoga, prana healing is specifically applied here. Prana is responsible for many different processes in the body. There are different pranas, with different functions and in different parts of the body. Through various yogic techniques such as asanas and pranayama, we can influence these pranas and bring them into balance. However, we should always pay attention to the interaction of all pranas. In general, pranic healing should strive for balance in order to create healing.
| The position of the five pranas in relation to the body structure | ||
| Prana | Head | Food, breath and impressions |
| Udana | Neck | Speech and stability of the head |
| Vyana | Chest and arms | Expand breathing into motion |
| Samana | Navel, belly and hip | Balance and digestion |
| Apana | Under body and feet | Reproduction and excretion |
Pranic healing and touch
Another aspect of pranic healing is the use of hands to direct life energy. Practitioners use their hands to identify and release energetic blockages. This approach creates a deep connection between healer and patient on a physical level. As described above, the physical method should include a diagnosis of all pranas in the body in order to target the relevant parts of the body.
Prana in spiritual healing
An important aspect of Prana healing is its connection to the spiritual dimension. Prana not only connects our body and the entire universe, but also flows through the koshas, our spiritual levels, all the way to our soul. Prana healing is therefore also part of spiritual healing.
This means that not only the physical body, but also the mind and soul are involved in the healing process. In addition to asanas and breathing techniques, spiritual practices such as mantra meditation and rituals are also included. The idea that life energy not only influences the body, but also promotes spiritual well-being, makes pranic healing a holistic approach to health.
Concentration and mental activity
Prana lies beyond our imagination in its subtlety. Prana is therefore also directed by thoughts and concentration. Even if we look at an object for a long time, a flow of prana automatically arises. As prana fills all our layers, we should not only work with prana on a physical level, but also work on a mental and spiritual level in particular. If we want to do this on our own, we should train practices that strengthen our concentration and break the addiction to too many thoughts. On a spiritual level, techniques such as trust or love for a higher power can activate and balance the much more subtle prana.
Healing is balance
It is in our nature to become active and optimize processes. First and foremost, if we want to act as healers, we should recognize Mother Nature as the greatest healer. In our body alone, many functions take place without us having to take care of them. So if we want to work with prana in order to heal, we should do so in the spirit of balance in order to support Mother Nature. The balance of all energies in the koshas automatically leads to healing. Too much manipulation, on the other hand, can lead to instability and a worsening of illnesses.
Pranic healing for someone or yourself
In pranic healing, we use breathing, concentration, visualization and intention to use prana as a healing agent. You can also use the instructions for distance healing if the person in question is far away. You should balance your own prana through breathing, regardless of whether you are doing the healing for someone else. A simple breathing technique that calibrates the breath in our nostrils is Nadi Shodhana.
Nadi Shodhana
- Assume your yoga pose and find a comfortable position. Cross your legs and sit up straight. Place the tips of your index and middle fingers of your right hand between your eyebrows and use your thumb to close your right nostril.
- The ring finger and little finger rest lightly on the left nostril. Close your right nostril with your thumb and inhale deeply through your left nostril. Count to four. Feel your lungs fill with fresh air.
- Hold your breath for a brief moment. Count to two. This promotes oxygen intake and strengthens your nervous system. Open your right nostril, close your left nostril with your ring finger and exhale slowly and in a controlled manner through your right nostril. Count to four. Now breathe in deeply through your right nostril while keeping your left nostril closed. Count to four.
- Hold your breath again, count to two and feel the energy spreading through your body. Open your left nostril, close your right nostril and breathe out calmly and evenly through your left nostril. Count to four. Repeat this alternation between the nostrils for 5-10 minutes to experience the full effect of Nadi Shodhana.
Pranic healing through laying on of hands
Focus your attention on your hands. Feel the energy between your palms. This tactile perception makes it possible to identify energetic blockages and dissolve them with your hands. Visualize bright, healing light moving through the body. Concentrate on the areas that need healing. The targeted imagination strengthens the pranic healing.
Conclusion of the session
Close the session with gratitude for the healing you have experienced. Practice love and acceptance for yourself or the person affected. These positive emotions promote the lasting effects of pranic healing. Through regular yogic practice and lifelong learning, you should improve your understanding and use of prana.
