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What is the significance of Sufi teachings in relation to yogic pranayam?

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To remain as you are, do not interfere with your natural breath; but if you seek transformation, embrace the science of pranayam, for it reshapes the mind and emotions, catalyzing profound inner change.

— Osho
Synthesized from Source definition
Core Insight:
According to Osho, Sufi cautions against manipulating breath contain a grain of truth: if you want to remain as you are, don’t interfere with natural breathing. But if transformation is desired, yogic pranayam is a precise, time-tested science: altering breath reshapes mind and emotion. Used consciously, breath-work dissolves anger, quiets sexuality, and catalyzes inner change without dogma.
Sufis say leave breath alone unless you want change; Osho adds that if you do want to grow, skillfully changing your breathing can safely change your mind and feelings.
Why this matters practically
- Slow, steady breathing dissolves anger on the spot.
- Regulating breath can calm sexual/impulsive urges and invite inner silence.
- Choose breath-work when seeking change; choose natural breath when seeking stability.
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