Prana Vayu (प्राण वायु)

Prana Vayu is the primary Vayu, located in the head (Murdha) and moving through the chest and throat. It governs the fun.

Ayurvedic Principles (Siddhanta Kosha) 1 min read
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Sanskrit Verse

प्राणोऽत्र मूर्धगः। उरःकण्ठचरो बुद्धिहृदयेन्द्रियचित्तधृक्। ष्ठीवनक्षवथूद्गारनिःश्वासान्नप्रवेशकृत्॥

— (Ashtanga Hrudayam, Sutrasthana 12/4)

Explanation

Prana Vayu is the primary Vayu, located in the head (Murdha) and moving through the chest and throat. It governs the functions of the intellect (Buddhi), heart, sense organs, and mind. It is responsible for spitting, sneezing, belching, inhalation, and the swallowing of food.

Clinical Importance

Vitiation of Prana Vayu leads to respiratory diseases like asthma (Shwasa), hiccups (Hikka), and neurological and psychological disorders. Practices like Pranayama directly work on balancing Prana Vayu.