Swatmarama says that through the practice of pranayama fear of death can be overcome, and for a spiritual aspirant this is a very important achievement. In the Yoga Sutras of Sage Patanjali, fear of death or abhinivesha is listed as one of the five basic causes of pain. It is known as a klesha and kleshas have to be dissolved before enlightenment takes place. “Abhinivesha is the desire for life, sustained by its own force which dominates even the learned.” (2:9) According to Sage Patanjali: “The modification of the kleshas are reducible through meditation.” (2:11) However, Swatmarama claims that fear of death can be eradicated through pranayama. Pranayama has a definite strengthening effect on the brain centres responsible for emotion and fear.

Muktibodhananda, Swami. Hatha Yoga Pradipika . Yoga Publications Trust, Munger, Bihar, India. Kindle Edition.