As long as breath remains in the body, there is life. Its departure is death. Therefore, the breath should be controlled.

This verse establishes the fundamental equation of haṭha yoga: prāṇa = life. Svātmārāma is not speaking merely of physical oxygen, but of the vital force that animates the body. Jīvana (life) exists only while vāyu (breath/prāṇa) remains (sthita) in the body (dehe).

The word niṣkrānti means “exit” or “departure.” When prāṇa leaves the body, maraṇa (death) ensues. This observation is not morbid but practical: if life depends on prāṇa, then mastering prāṇa is mastering life itself.

Tantric and haṭha yoga texts frequently mention that the number of breaths in a lifetime is predetermined. By slowing the breath, one extends life. This idea also appears in traditions such as Chinese Taoism.

The practical conclusion is identical to the previous verse: vāyuṃ nirodhayet — “the breath should be controlled.” Control here does not mean forcing or straining, but consciously regulating the flow of prāṇa to optimize vitality and eventually transcend the ordinary limitations of the body.