Pranayama has a number of interpretations, is translates from Sanskrit most literally as "expending life force". The movement of the breath is the most noticeable (but not the only one) movement of Prana. Yogic breathing practices definitely produce shifts (even if only momentarily to begin with) in consciousness. Even simple becoming aware of inhales, pauses and exhales works wonders. One feels more spacious, more aware, more present, more attuned and more alive! What more can you ask for from such a simple and natural thing as breathing?☺️