Also known as “Pañca Prāṇa” or “Five Winds,” these are the five different types of vital energy. They differ in the direction and physical location of the prāṇa in the body.

Prāṇa Vāyu
Located between the throat and diaphragm and includes all organs within that thoracic region of the body. The associated cakra is Anāhatacakra, which is located in the heart.

Apāna Vāyu
Located between the perineum and the navel, this vayu is responsible for elimination. Its movement is down and outwards. The associated cakra is Mūlādhāracakra, which is located in the pelvic floor.

Samāna Vāyu
Governs the region between the navel and diaphragm and moves sideways (in a spiral motion). Associated with the Maṇipūracakra.

Udāna Vāyu
Located from the throat to the top of the head, the movement of prāṇa here is outward and upward. Associated cakra is viśuddha (throat). It governs the sensory organs, neck, head, and brain.

Vyāna Vāyu
This vāyu pervades the entire body via the blood. It has a circular, back-breathing motion and combines the qualities of Prāṇa and Apāna. No associated cakra. When we say, “send the breath wherever you are feeling sensation,” we engage with this vāyu.