Significance of Breathing in
Breathing in is understood differently in Dharmashastra and Theravada. In Dharmashastra, it relates to the ritual of inhaling during the Soma process, involving specific breath states. In contrast, Theravada emphasizes the natural act of inhaling air through the nostrils, advocating for a relaxed and unforced approach. Both perspectives highlight the significance of inhalation in spiritual practices, though they emphasize different rituals and methods.
Synonyms: Inhaling, Inspiration, Intake, Drawing breath, Respiration
In Dutch: Inademen; In Finnish: Hengitä sisään; In Spanish: Inhalando
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Breathing in'
In Buddhism, "Breathing in" signifies the natural, unforced act of inhaling through the nostrils, reflecting mindfulness and the importance of being present in the moment during meditation practices.
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) The act of inhaling air through the nostrils, which should be performed naturally without force.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Breathing in'
In Hinduism, "Breathing in" signifies the inhalation connected to ritual practices, particularly involving the Soma, where different states of breath are engaged as an integral part of spiritual and ceremonial observances.
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The process of inhalation, one of the functions of the vital force.[2]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The act associated with prana, which refers to drawing air into the lungs.[3]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) The act of inhaling; the ritual details involve various states of breath when taking up the Soma.[4]
The concept of Breathing in in local and regional sources
Breathing in, or Puraka in Sanskrit, is the initial phase of a three-part breathing process that includes retaining air (Kumbhaka) and exhaling (Rechaka), vital for managing breath and promoting relaxation.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This is the first part, which is called in Sanskrit Puraka, filling, and the second part is called Kumbhaka, retaining, filling the lungs and stopping the air from coming out, and the third is called Rechaka, breathing out.[5]