apana vayu



While prana vayu governs the intake functions, apana, which is most active in the pelvis and lower abdomen, governs the eliminative functions (excretion, urination, menstruation) and the downward and outward flow of energy in the body.

On the subtle level, apana eliminates not only physical wastes but anything undesirable or threatening to good health. It supports the immune system and helps keep the mind free of destructive forces. When apana is weak, the integrity of the mind-body complex is also weakened, and we become susceptible to illness, fear, doubt, confusion, insecurity, and loss of purpose; when it is strong and balanced, apana roots and grounds us, providing the foundation for a healthy body and a flexible positive outlook on life.

For most of us, however, the constant downward drain of apana necessary for proper eliminative functioning can also deplete us, leading us away from the inward unity that is the goal of yoga. The practices of hatha yoga train apana to work efficiently—they help us conserve and redirect this energy so we can access deeper planes of awareness. By repurposing apana, we build a foundation from which we can awaken and intensify our inner spiritual fire.