Rechaka

Rechaka

रेचक, recaka

The process of exhalation in pranayama.

In yogic texts, rechaka is mentioned not only as an element of methods related to the control and increase of energy, but also as a complete pranayama. By stretching the exhalation and/or inhalation, the practitioner can balance the pranas in the body and enter the state of pratyahara. On the contrary, an uncontrolled process of rechaka can cause energy loss.

The word रेचक (recaka) from Sanskrit can be translated in different ways. Among the meanings: "empty", "dissolution", "purification", "pushing out", "liberation". When sadhaka exhales, he not only empties the lungs and the whole body of the air, but also frees the mind from thoughts and worries. It becomes clear why in yogic texts rechaka is also called shunyaka. The process of exhalation is associated with dissolution and emptiness, and therefore correlates with Shiva.

Rechaka is sometimes associated with apana vayu, because during exhalation the air leaves the body. This similarity is indicated by the word अपान (apāna), which consists of the prefix अप (apa) – "outside" and आन (āna) – "breath". However, there is some contradiction, because apana-vayu moves down, and the air during exhalation, as we know, rises up. Therefore, in yogic texts, rechaka is usually associated with prana, which moves up.

Another analogy can be found in tantra. Inhalation is considered as a symbol of soma (nectar, amrita), since it corresponds to the process of saturation and filling. Exhalation is a symbol of fire, because rechaka is associated with the idea of ​​absorption and purification. 

Thus, the process of inhalation-exhalation becomes similar to a sacrifice during homa, when ghee (amrita) is poured into the fire.

In the Agamic tradition, rechaka is also associated with Brahma-granthi, which is located in the area of muladhara and svadhishthana chakras.