Apana Vayu

Apana vayu is present in the pelvic cavity, including the cecum, ascending colon, transverse colon, descending colon, sigmoid colon, rectum, and urinary tract. In women, apana vayu is present in the vagina and cervix; in men, in the testicles, prostate, and urethra. Its movement is downward and outward.

Apana vayu regulates kidney function. Urine is filtered in the kidneys and brought drop-by-drop into the bladder. It also stimulates menstruation, defecation, and flatulence. Apana is the motor function working with different segments of the lumbosacral spine. From the lumbosacral spine, messages are carried to the bladder for urination, to the rectum for defecation, and to the womb for menstruation or delivery.

Apana vayu regulates the movement of the sciatic nerve and the lower body. In men, it is responsible for movement of sperm and the desire to make love. In women, apana stimulates ovulation, regulates menstruation, nourishes the fetus during pregnancy, and moves the child during delivery. During intercourse, apana of the man and woman merge together, bringing the meeting of sperm and ovum. Apana is responsible for conception — if weak, conception is not possible.

Apana vayu nourishes the bones through the colon mucous membrane and the absorption of minerals. Disorders below the belly button are associated with apana; disorders at the belly button are samana; disorders above the belly button are prana.

Apana vayu is the subtype of vata dosha that governs all downward and outward movement. Functioning mainly in the colon, it directs the elimination of feces, urine, flatus, menstrual blood, the fetus at birth, and subtle cellular wastes.