PRANAYAMA
Pranayama,
a form of Yoga breathing
Pranayama is not a simple breathing exercise yet
it is a scientific breathing process where control over prana is
achieved. Pranayama is the connecting link between physical (asanas) and
mental (meditation) yogic practices.
Pranayama
Meaning
Pranayama is a Sanskrit word which consists of
prana and ayama. Prana means self-energizing life forces and ayama means
extension. Pranayama may be defined as expansion and control of prana through
various yogic techniques.
Significance
& importance of Pranayama
Pranayama is one of the important vital
components of Yoga that directly or indirectly affects the proper functioning
of different systems of the body. If you practice pranayama regularly, it
shows beneficial impacts upon respiratory system, circulatory system, digestive
system and endocrine system. Pranayama ensures more oxygen to lungs and good
for hearts too. Pranayama tones up kidney and control the functions of nervous
system. Kumbhaka or retention of breath helps supply of oxygen or exchange of
oxygen and carbon dioxide thus facilitates better work of lungs and helps brain
to work more efficiently. Pranayama affects autonomic nervous system
which controls heart rate, glandular secretions, respiration, digestion and
blood pressure.
Difference
between Pranayama and breathing
There is a difference between pranayama and
breathing process. Pranayama is not a simple breathing process; it is much more
than exhalation and inhalation. Pranayama is a regulated breathing, which
comprises pukara-slow and prolonged inhalation, kumbhaka-retention of breathe,
and recaka-slow and prolonged exhalation. While breathing involves
inhalation and exhalation. Pranayama is always performed in specific posture,
especially sitting in padmasana while in case of breathing, it is not so like
that. Breathing provides physical benefits while pranayama involves
physical, mental and spiritual benefits.
Procedure
of Pranayama
Before practising pranayama, certain precautions
and essentials are to be taken. For pranayama practices, one has to
ensure proper place, suitable time, mitahara diet and proper light. Pranayama
can be practiced to any place that is well-ventilated from external
disturbances. Spring and autumn seasons are the best periods for
practicing pranayama as these seasons are favourable to the body and mind to
keep them synergizes with the outside environment. To be fit and healthy, 15
minutes of pranayama is good. It is also suggested that pranayama should be
performed under the guidance of a yoga instructor.
Pranayama
Precautions
Pranayama should be practised at a place which is
free from dust, pollutants, smoke and filthy things. The sitting ground should
be flat and smooth. The suitable time for performing pranayama is early in the
morning on empty stomach. To have the proper benefits, one should
practised pranayama regularly. Pranayama facilitates better blood circulation
in the body when it is done after bath. One should ensure that breathing should
be through nose and it should be slow and rhythmic. During pranayama,
eyes should be closed to control the mind and body.
Top
benefits of breathing exercise Pranayama
- Pranayama control
ageing.
- Pranayama makes
oxygen circulation smooth, helps in weight regulation by melting fat as more
oxygen burns more fat.
- Pranayama is the key
of Intelligence.
- It provides
lightness to the body; acts as diseases destructor, brings vigour and
power.
- Pranayama helps in
lungs expansion thereby improves its efficiency and makes it healthy.
- It also helps in
contending blood pressure and heart diseases; makes digestion smooth.
- It cures the phlegm,
mucus and tonsillitis problems. Makes your gums and teeth healthy.
- Pranayama brings
stillness and calmness to the mind, increased concentration and stability
of mind. Pranayama is good for physical, mental and spiritual happiness.
- I t makes you free
from constipation and indigestion problems.
- Pranamaya stimulates
autonomic nervous system, sympathetic nervous system and parasympathetic
nervous systems. It helps to ease stress, anxiety and tension. It also
eases depression, dullness and lethargy.
The lungs and the breathing
process
The organs of respiration consist of two lungs, one
on either side of the chest and the air passages that lead to them. The lungs
are located in the upper thoracic cavity of the chest, one on each side of the
median line, and are separated from each other by the heart, the greater blood
vessels and the larger air tubes. The lungs are spongy, porous, and their
tissues are very elastic, containing innumerable air-sacs or alveoli. Each lung
consists of an apex and a base. The base is directed towards the diaphragm, the
muscular septum, the dividing wall between chest and the abdomen.
The air passage consists of the interior of the
nose, pharynx or throat, larynx or voice box, trachea or windpipe, right and
left bronchi and the smaller bronchial tubes. When we breathe, we draw in the
air through the nose and after it has passed through the pharynx and larynx, it
passes into the windpipe, thence into the right and left bronchial tubes, which
in turn, subdivide into innumerable smaller tubes called bronchioles, which
terminate in minute subdivisions in the millions of small air-sacs of the
lungs. When spread out over an unbroken surface, these air-sacs of the lungs
would cover an area of 1,40,000 square feet.
The air is drawn into the lungs by the action of
the diaphragm. When it expands, the size of the chest and the lungs is
increased and the outside air rushes into the vacuum thus created. The chest
and lungs contract when the diaphragm relaxes and the air is expelled from the
lungs.
The lungs purify the blood. The blood starts in its
arterial journey, bright red and richly laden with life-giving qualities and
properties. It returns by the venous route, blue, laden with the waste matter
of the system. From the right side of the heart the impure blood goes to the
lungs, for purification. It is distributed among the millions of tiny air cells
of the lungs. A breath of air is inhaled and the oxygen of the air comes in
contact with the impure blood through the thin walls of the hair-like blood
vessels of the lungs called pulmonary capillaries. The walls of the capillaries
are very thin, like muslin cloth, and thus oxygen easily penetrates through the
walls of these thin capillaries.
When the oxygen comes in contact with the tissues,
a form of combustion takes place. The blood takes up oxygen and releases
carbonic acid gas generated from the waste products and poisonous matter which
have been gathered by the blood from all parts of the system. The purified
blood passes into the different arteries of the body. It is estimated that in a
day 35,000 pints of blood traverse the capillaries of the lungs for
purification.
By controlling the motion of the lungs or respiratory
organs, we can control the prana that is vibrating inside. The mind is fastened
to prana, like a bird to a string; therefore, by control of prana, the mind can
be easily controlled. Just as the bird that is tied to a post by a string,
after flying here and there, finds its resting place on the post, so also this
mind-bird after running hither and thither, to various sensual objects, finds
its resting place during deep sleep in prana.
Components
of Pranayama or Four Stages of Breathing
Each
cycle of breathing, usually thought of as merely a single inhaling followed by
a single exhaling, may be analyzed into four phases or stages, each with its
distinct nature and its traditional Sanskrit name. The transitions from
inhaling to exhaling and from exhaling to inhaling involve at least reversals
in direction of the movements of muscles and of expansive or contractive
movements of lungs, thorax and abdomen. The time necessary for such reversals
can be very short, as may be observed if one deliberately pants as shortly and
rapidly as he/she can. Yet they can be long, as one may notice if he
intentionally stops breathing when he has finished inbreathing or
out-breathing. The effects of these pause specially when they become
lengthened, at first deliberately and then spontaneously-seem remarkable.
1.
Puraka (Inhalation):
A
single inhalation is termed puraka. It is a process of drawing in air; it is
expected to be smooth and continuous. If a person should pause one or more
times during the process of a single inhaling, the process might be spoken of
as a broken puraka rather than as a series of purakas.
2.
Abhyantara Kumbhaka
(Pause After Inhaling) Full Pause:
Kumbhaka consists of deliberate stoppage of flow of
air and retention of the air in the lungs, without any movement of lungs or
muscles or any part of the body and without any incipient movements. A beginner
may experiment by using some force to keep such pause motionless. Quite
elaborate instructions and techniques have been worked out for this purpose.
The third stage, exhalation, is called rechaka. Like
inhalation, it too should be smooth and continuous, though often the speed of
exhaling is different from that of inhaling. Normally, muscular energy is used
for inhaling whereas exhaling consists merely in relaxing the tensed muscles.
Such relaxing forces air from the lungs as they return to an untensed
condition. However, a person can force air out with muscular effort; so when he
sits or stands erect and has his abdominal muscles under constant control,
muscular effort may be used for both inhaling and exhaling. Especially if one
deliberately smoothes the course of his breathing and holds the cycles in
regular or definitely irregular patterns, he is likely to use muscular energy at
each stage, including the pauses. However, in a condition of complete
relaxation, one should expect effort to be needed only for inhaling.
4.
Bahya Kumbhaka (Pause After Exhaling) Empty Pause:
The fourth stage, the pause after exhaling, is also
called kumbhaka, especially when the stoppage is deliberate or prolonged. The
fourth stage, the empty pause, completes the cycle which terminates as the
pause ends and a new inhalation begins.
Types of Pranayama
Anulom Vilom Pranayama
Anulom Vilom Pranayama or alternate
nostril breathing exercise is one of the main practices of Pranayama. Anulom
Vilom Pranayama is mentioned in the yogic texts Hatha Yoga Pradeepika,
Gheranda Samhita, Tirumandiram, Siva Samhita, Puranas
and in the Upanishads.
In the practice of pranayama,
inhalation (called Puraka), retention (called Kumbhaka) and
exhalation (called Rechaka) is used. Anulom Vilom pranayama can be
practiced with or without Kumbhaka (holding of breath). Beginners should
start the practice without Kumbhaka.
The duration of inhalation and
expiration depends entirely on the capacity of the practitioner. Start with
whatever you are comfortable with – say 4 seconds inhalation and 4 seconds
exhalation. Later it can be increased up to 20 seconds or even more.
In Anulom Vilom pranayama,
breathing is done only through one nostril which is alternated. During this
process, the other nostril is closed using the fingers. The thumb is used to
close the right nostril and the ring finger is used to close the left nostril.
Anulom Vilom Pranayama is an
advanced practice (esp. when done with retention of breath). It has to be
learned from a yoga expert. Those suffering from heart ailments or blood
pressure problems (high as well as low) should avoid retention of breath during
the process. They may do the Anulom Vilom pranayama without holding the
breath. Also, consult a doctor if you have any medical condition before taking
up the practice.
The purpose of Pranayama is to control
the breathing mechanism which is an involuntary process. Breathing goes on even
in our sleep as it is controlled by the central nervous system. With regular
practice of pranayama, this process can be brought into our conscious control
to some extent. In the yoga text Hatha Yoga Pradeepika, the breath is
compared to a wild animal. Just as elephants, lions and tigers can be
controlled with steady and prolonged training, the yogi also brings the breath
under his control with constant practice.
The practice of Pranayama should be
taken up with care. Do not overdo the practice. Do not increase the duration of
inhalation and exhalation beyond your limit. Also with Kumbhaka
(retention), the practitioner should be very careful. It is said in Hatha
Yoga Pradeepika that pranayama can cure all diseases. But, if done
improperly, it may create diseases, which cannot be cured easily even through
medical treatment. Hence one should be very cautious and increase the level of
practice over a comfortable period of time. It is advisable to consult an
accomplished yogi before taking up higher levels of practice.
Anulom Vilom pranayama should be
done on an empty stomach, preferably in the morning after evacuation. It can
also be done in the evening with a gap of 4 hours after the last meal. Also,
avoid doing Anulom Vilom pranayama with retention of breath when the
temperature is hot. Retention of breath can cause an increase in body
temperature and should be done in a cool climate.
Procedure of Anulom
Vilom Pranayama (Alternate Nostril Breathing)?
- Sit
in a steady asana. Padmasana is most suited for the practice. Siddhasana
and Vajrasana may also be used.
- Close
the right nostril with your thumb and draw in air from the left nostril.
Do this as slowly as you can, till your lungs are full.
- Now
release the thumb and close the left nostril with your ring finger. Then
breathe out slowly through the right nostril.
- Next
take the air in from the right nostril and then release it through the
left nostril (after closing the right nostril with the thumb).
- This
is one round of Anulom Vilom Pranayama.
- Start
with 5 rounds and increase it up to 20 rounds in one sitting.
- Also,
the duration of inhalation can start from 2 seconds and go up to 20
seconds or even beyond.
- One
can have one sitting in the morning and one in the evening. For advanced
practitioners, the yogic texts recommends four sittings – one in the
morning, one at noon, one in the evening and one at midnight. But for all
practical purposes, two sittings (one in morning and one in evening) are
enough.
- After
one has reached a certain level of proficiency, one can add Kumbhaka
or retention of breath to the practice.
Ratio of Inhalation,
Retention and Exhalation
Pranayama practitioners start with the
ratio of 1:1 for inhalation and exhalation. For example if you inhale for 4
seconds through one nostril, then the exhalation from the other nostril is also
4 seconds. As you progress, the ratio can be changed to 1:2, which means if
inhalation is 4 seconds, then exhalation is 8 seconds.
Once you add Kumbhaka (retention
of breath), the ratio can start with 1:1:1. For example, 4 seconds of
inhalation, 4 seconds of retention and 4 seconds of exhalation. With further
progress, the ratio can be increased to 1:1:2, 1:2:2, 1:4:2, etc. The ratio of
1:4:2 is mentioned in most classic yoga texts. Those who practice advanced
ratios of this pranayama, should eat only Satvic food (pure, nourishing
and light).
Benefits of Anulom
Vilom Pranayama (Alternate Nostril Breathing)
- Anulom
Vilom
Pranayama cleans the pranic channels and makes the prana flow freely in
the entire body. The nadis or the pranic energy channels are purified.
Hence this pranayama is also called Nadi Shodhana Pranayama.
- Purification
of the energy channels ensures proper supply of pranic energy to all the
organs enhancing the overall health of the body.
- Anulom
Vilom
Pranyama balances the two main energy channels – Ida and Pingala.
It balances the two hemispheres of the brain, bringing about peace and
tranquility.
- When
the Ida and Pingala nadis are balanced, it awakens the
central channel called Sushumna Nadi.
- It
removes toxins from the body.
- Prolonged
practice of Anulom Vilom Pranayama leads to next stage of yoga,
which is Pratyahara or withdrawal of the senses. This enables the
practitioner to progress towards higher practices of Dharana, Dhyana
and Samadhi.
- It can
reduce weight in some practitioners depending on their body constitution
and is a good practice for obesity.
Bhastrika
Pranayama – The Bellow’s Breath
Bhastrika Pranayama is one of the main forms of Pranayama. In
Sanskrit, Bhastrika means the ‘bellows ’. Just as the blacksmith blows
his bellows to create heat and purify iron, Bhastrika is said to purify
the mind and clear pranic blocks. Bhastrika is mentioned in the
yoga texts Hatha Yoga Pradeepika and the Gheranda Samhita.
Bhastrika involves both rapid inhalation as well as exhalation. This helps
to increase the circulation of blood in the entire body. During rapid and
forced exhalation, the chest is compressed, thereby pushing the blood towards
the head. During the inhalation, the reverse takes place. This process
increases the blood flow to every part of the body, increasing the vitality of
all the organs and tissues. Long term practice of Bhastrika purifies the
body and awakens the inherent higher powers. During Bhastrika, the
increase in blood flow causes a slight rise in body temperature, accompanied
with mild sweating which reduces the temperature and keeps the body at normal
temperature. Most pranayama techniques either increase or decrease the body
temperature, but Bhastrika more or less maintains the body temperature. Bhastrika
also increases the oxygen content in the blood.
Bhastrika practice can be considered as a combination of Kapalbhati and
Ujjayi pranayama. The exhalation is similar to that in Kapalbhati and
inhalation is similar to that done in Ujjayi pranayama. Once you have practiced
Kapalbhati and Ujjayi, Bhastrika is easy. Bhastrika can be
practiced both in the morning and evening. During summer, if the temperature is
high, the practice should be restricted to mornings only. Bhastrika is
an advanced practice and should be done on an empty stomach, after evacuation
in the morning. Those who take up prolonged practice of Bhastrika,
should take only light meals during morning and night. The lunch can be normal.
Those suffering from heart diseases
should not do this pranayama. Also avoid it when you have a severe block of the
nose. Those with acute asthma and fever should also not attempt Bhastrika.
If you had any recent surgery, please consult your doctor before attempting Bhastrika.
Practice of Bhastrika can be little intense for some people. It should be
learned only under the guidance of a qualified yoga instructor. In case of any
existing medical conditions, please consult your doctor before taking up the
practice.
Procedure of Bhastrika
Pranayama (Bellow’s Breath)
- Sit in any steady asana.
Padmasana, Siddhasana and Vajrasana are ideal for the practice.
- Keep the body erect and close
the mouth.
- Inhale and exhale in rapid
succession. During this process a hissing sound is produced. Start with
say 10 inhalations and exhalations per round. It can be increased over a
period of time. Some practitioners even do it till they get perspiration.
- Some practice Bhastrika
along with Kumbhaka (holding of the breath) at the end of the last
exhalation. To do this, take a deep breath after the last exhalation and
hold the breath inside for as long as comfortable. Then exhale and start
breathing normally. This will constitute one round. Another way of doing
it is mentioned in Hatha Yoga Pradeepika. There it is said that at
the end of the last exhalation, one should breathe in through the right
nostril and hold the breath. Then release the breath through the left
nostril.
- Do three such rounds of Bhastrika
pranayama. Between the rounds, rest for a while, till the breathing comes
back to normal. If you are short of time, practice at least one
round which is good enough to maintain fitness.
- Have two sittings, one in the
morning and one in the evening (if the temperature is cool).
Benefits of Bhastrika
Pranayama (Bellow’s Breath)
- Bhastrika pranayama increases the oxygen content in the
blood. Extra oxygen replenishes the entire body.
- It removes blockages in the
nose and chest.
- It is good for asthma patients
and removes inflammation of the throat.
- Bhastrika increases the gastric fire and improves
appetite.
- Bhastrika when practiced with Kumbhaka can generate heat
in the body and keep it warm in cold weather.
- Bhastrika improves general health and activates all the
organs.
- Bhastrika purifies the nadis or the energy (pranic)
channels in the body, ensuring free flow of prana to all the organs in the
body.
- Bhastrika has great spiritual benefits. It helps to break
through the three Granthis or psychic knots that bind the soul. The
three knots are called Brahma Granthi (at the base of spine, near
Mooladhara and Swadhishtana Chakra), Vishnu Granthi (around the
heart chakra) and Rudra Granthi ( at the Agna Chakra). These are
emotional and mental knots, block the individual’s evolution. Prolonged
practice of Bhastrika loosens up these Granthis. Bhastrika
destroys the phlegm that blocks the entrance to Sushumna Nadi (or
the central pranic channel), thus enabling energy to pass up the spinal
channel. Prolonged practice can help to awaken the inherent Kundalini
Shakti at the base of the spine.
- Bhastrika destroys the defects of Vata (wind), Pitta
(Bile)and Kapha (Phlegm) and balances these three.
Bhastrika is one of the main practices taken up by serious students of
yoga. One should not overdo the exercise out of enthusiasm. Start with less
rounds (say 10 inhalations and exhalations). Slowly increase it to 60 or 120
over a period of time. Some do even 500 or more, depending on the strength and
comfort of the practitioner. Some do it till they get tired and start to
perspire. One should judge one’s own capacity before doing it. Those who take
up Bhastrika seriously should eat only Satvic food (pure, fresh,
light, nourishing and easy to digest). Also, the use of enema is recommended to
keep the bowels clean, whenever required.
There are many variations
of Bhastrika. In some variations, only one nostril is used for
inhalation and exhalation. First it is done through the left nostril and then
through the right nostril. In another variation, the inhalation is done through
one nostril and the exhalation is done through the other.
Kapalabhatti
Pranayam
Kapalabhatti
Pranayam (the skull-shining breath) is one of six additional cleansing
practices mentioned in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika. Benefits of this exercises
include increased energy and heightened mental clarity.
In this practice, exhales are short and active
and inhales are passive. Inhales occur as a result of forcing the breath out in
short, quick bursts through the nostrils (sort of like the breath that you use
to blow out a birthday candle, only through the nose instead).
Procedure:
- Find a comfortable seated
position.
- To begin the first round of
kapalabhatti, inhale deeply through your nose, and then exhale half of
your air.
- Once your lungs have emptied
approximately halfway, squeeze the muscles of your belly down and in to
press air out through your nose in a quick burst. Relax your belly and let
the lungs effortlessly fill to halfway again.
- Repeat according to capacity,
building up to three rounds of fifty repetitions.
Note: Becoming comfortable with Kapalabhatti
pranayama can take some practice, so go slowly at first. The slower tempo will
allow you better feel the active nature of the exhale and the passive nature of
the inhale. Pay attention to any feelings of dizziness or breathlessness and
stop the exercise for the day if they arise.
Surya
Bheda Pranayama – The Vitalizing Breath
Surya Bheda
Pranayama or Surya Bhedana Pranayama
is one of the main pranayamas practiced with Kumbhaka. Surya means the
sun. In Surya Bheda Pranayama the Surya Nadi or the right nostril
channel is activated. Surya Bheda Pranayama is mentioned in the yoga
texts Hatha Yoga Pradeepika and the Gheranda Samhita.
In Yoga, the right
nostril channel or the Surya Nadi, also called the Pingala Nadi
is related to prana and the bodily functions, while the left nostril channel or
the Chandra Nadi is associated with the mind. In Surya Bheda Pranayama,
the inhalation is done through the right nostril only. It is said to activate
all the bodily functions.
Surya Bheda
Pranayama is classified as a Kumbhaka
practice or a practice involving retention of breath. The breath is held to the
maximum limit as per one’s comfort. The practice of Kumbhaka or holding
of breath is an advanced practice. It should be learned from a qualified yoga
instructor. Those suffering from heart ailments and blood pressure problems
should not attempt practices involving breath retention, without consulting a
doctor. Pranayama should not be done immediately after a meal. There should be
a gap of at least 4 – 5 hours after a meal.
Procedure of Surya
Bheda Pranayama
- Sit in a meditative asana,
preferably Padmasana, Siddhasana or Vajrasana.
- Make the trunk and spine
straight and place the hands on the knees. Take few relaxed breaths before
starting the practice.
- Now raise the right hand and
place the forefinger and the middle finger on the forehead between the
eyebrows.
- Use the ring finger to close
the left nostril.
- Breathe in slowly through the
right nostril and fill the lungs entirely.
- Close both nostrils (thumb
closes the right nostril and ring finger closes the left nostril) and hold
the breath.
- Perform Jalandhara Bandha (the
chin lock) and Moola Bhandha.
- Hold the breath to the extent
that you are comfortable. In the yoga texts, it is said that one should
hold the breath till perspiration appears. But, be cautious with breath
retention and never overdo it.
- Release Moola Bhandha
and Jalandhara Bandha and exhale through the left nostril (Ida
Nadi), keeping the right nostril closed.
- This is one round. Repeat as
many rounds as comfortable. You may start with 5 rounds and later increase
it to 10 or beyond. Also the duration of Kumbhaka should be
increased carefully over a period of time. Advanced practitioners can go
up to 80 rounds per sitting.
Benefits of Surya
Bheda pranayama
- Surya Bheda Pranayama activates the body and the bodily functions.
- It increases the digestive
fire.
- It destroys all diseases that
are caused by insufficiency of oxygen in the blood.
- The Gheranda Samhita
says that Surya Bheda pranayama destroys decay and death, awakens
Kundalini Shakti and increases digestive fire.
- The Hatha Yoga Pradeepika
says that Surya Bheda Pranayama cleans the frontal sinuses,
destroys disorders of Vata and destroys intestinal worms.
- In the Hatha Yoga
Pradeepika, it is also said that one can perform Uddhiyana Bandha
by pulling in the abdomen at the end of Kumbhaka or holding of breath.
This will force the prana to enter the central pranic channel called Sushumna
Nadi. This leads to awakening of the Kundalini Shakti.
Ujjayi
Pranayama – The Psychic Breath
Ujjayi Prananaya or the psychic breath soothes the mind and
induces a meditative state. Ujjayi means to ‘lift up’. In Ujjayi
pranayama, the chest is slightly lifted up as if the inhalation is done
from the throat. Ujjayi pranayama is mentioned in the yoga text Hatha
Yoga Pradeepika and in the Gheranda Samhita.
Ujjayi involves a deep inhalation from both nostrils with a half
closed glottis, so that a faint hissing snoring sound is made during the
inhalation. Then there is retention of breath followed by exhalation. Those
suffering from heart ailments and blood pressure problems should avoid Kumbhaka
or retention of breath. This practice should be learnt from a qualified yoga
instructor.
Procedure
of Ujjayi Pranayama
- Sit in a comfortable
meditative pose. Padmasana, Siddhasana, Swastikasana, Sukhasana
or Vajrasana can be used. This practice may be even done during
light activities like sitting and walking.
- Contract the glottis, so that
the passage of the throat is partially closed.
- Roll the tongue up and let the
lower side of the tongue touch the upper palate.
- Breathe in slowly through the
throat, making a slight hissing snoring sound. During inhalation, the
chest is slightly lifted up and the abdomen contracts a little.
- When the inhalation is
complete, swallow the breath and perform Jalandhara Bandha (the chin
lock).
- Retain the breath inside for
as long as you are comfortable. In the initial stages, Kumbhaka or
breath retention can be avoided. Add this to the practice when you feel
comfortable holding the breath.
- Release the chin lock (Jalandhara
Bandha) and exhale through the left nostril (Ida Nadi). Block
the right nostril with the right thumb during exhalation. Exhalation may
also be done through both the nostrils.
- This is one round of Ujjayi
Pranayama. Do as many rounds as you are comfortable.
A one progresses in the
practice, increase the time of inhalation and exhalation. Also at some point
one can change the ratio of inhalation and exhalation. It can be increased to
1:2. For example, if the inhalation is 4 seconds, then the exhalation can be 8
seconds. One can start the practice with 7 rounds and later increase it
depending on the time available. Let each round be continuous without break.
Serious practitioners may go up to 320 rounds (in four sittings of 80 each) in
a day.
Benefits
of Ujjayi Pranayama
- Ujjayi pranayama soothes the nervous system and calms
the mind.
- Ujjayi can help those suffering from high blood
pressure. But such persons should avoid the retention of breath, unless a
doctor advises otherwise.
- Because of its tranquilizing
effect on the mind, it is used along with other yogic practices like Kechari
Mudra.
- Hatha Yoga Pradeepika claims that Ujjayi pranayama can remove
Phlegm in the throat and increase appetite. It destroys the defects in the
Nadis, removes dropsy and disorders of the Dhatus (humors).
- The Gheranda Samhita
says that a practitioner of Ujjayi pranayama overcomes diseases caused by
phlegm, nervous disorders, indigestion, dysentery, consumption, cough,
fever and enlarged spleen.
Bhramari
Pranayama – The Humming Bee Breath
Bhramari Pranayama or the humming Bee
Breath produces a sound similar to the humming of a bee. Bhramari comes
from the Sanskrit word ‘Bramar’ which means a kind of black Indian bee. Bhramari
pranayama has a soothing effect on the brain and calms the mind.
In Bhramari pranayama the humming sound
is produced during slow exhalation. The eyes and ears are closed using the
fingers during this process. This cuts off external sense inputs of sound and
sight and helps to internalize the consciousness. Practice of Bhramari
pranayama can be a prelude to Nada Yoga or the science of
meditation on internal sounds.
Procedure
of Bhramari Pranayama (Humming Bee Breath)?
- Sit in a comfortable
meditative pose. Padmasana, Siddhasana,
Ardha Padmasana, Swastikasana
or even Sukhasana can be used as a sitting posture.
Keep the spine erect. Do not do this in a lying down position.
- Breathe normally and relax the
whole body.
- Keep the mouth closed and the
teeth apart.
- Plug both the ears with the
index fingers and close the eyes. Some also use the thumb to close the
ears. In this variation, the eyes are kept closed by using the middle finger.
- Take a slow deep breath and
fill the lungs fully.
- Then exhale slowly, making a
continuous humming sound from the throat. The sound should reverberate in
the head.
- Feel the sound vibration in
the head. Be aware of only the continuous drone that the sound produces.
This drone is similar to the humming sound of the bee.
- This is one round.
- Start with 5 rounds and
increase it as per your convenience.
Benefits
of Bharamari Pranayama (Humming Bee Breath)
- Bhramari pranayama calms the nerves and reduces tension and
anxiety.
- It helps to reduce anger and
frustrations.
- It gives the practitioner a
good sonorous voice. It can also help remove throat ailments.
- It helps to reduce blood
pressure.
- Bhramari pranayama is a good prelude to the practice of Nada
yoga. In Nada Yoga, the
consciousness is internalized and practitioner meditates on the subtle
internal sounds. Bhramari pranayama
helps to attain the state of Pratyahara, or the
state of withdrawal from the senses before the start of meditation.
Sheetali
Pranayama – The Cooling Breath
Sheetali Pranayama or the
cooling breath is usually done after practicing other asanas and pranayamas. Sheetali
Pranayama cools the body. Sheetali in sanskrit means
‘cooling’. Sheetali pranayama is mentioned in the yoga
texts Hatha Yoga Pradeepika and Gheranda
Samhita.
Sheetali involves folding of the tongue
to form a tube like shape. Some people may find it difficult to fold their
tongue. They can do an alternate practice call Sheetkari Pranayama,
which gives similar benefits.
Avoid doing Sheetali pranayama if you
are suffering from a cold as it is counter productive. But if you are in a hot
environment, it is ideal for cooling the body.
Procedure
of Sheetali Pranayama (The Cooling Breath)?
- Sit in a
comfortable asana with palms on the knees.
- Roll the tongue
from the sides so that it forms a narrow tube. The tongue is folded from
both the sides and the edges almost meet at the center on the top.
- Breathe in slowly.
First fill the abdomen, then the chest and finally the neck region. This
is the complete yogic breath.
- Pull the tongue
inside the mouth and close the mouth.
- Bend the neck
forward to do the chin lock, also called the Jalandhara
Bandha
- Hold the breath for
some time, as much as you are comfortable
- Release Jalandhara
Bandha and exhale slowly through the nose
- This is one round
of Sheetali Pranayama. One can do as many
rounds as you may feel comfortable.
Benefits
of Sheetali Pranayama (the Cooling Breath)
- The action of pulling the air
through the tongue creates a cooling effect on the body.
- Sheetali relaxes the body and the mind.
- According to Hatha
Yoga Pradeepika, Sheetali can cure
colic, enlarged speen, fever and disorders of the bile.
- Sheetali can also remove hunger and thirst.
- Gheranda Samhita describes Sheetali as the giver
of Bliss. The text says that Sheetali removes
indigestion, phlegm and bilious disorders.
Sheetkari
Pranayama – The Hissing Breath
Sheetkari Pranayama or the
Hissing Breath is ususally done after practicing other asanas and pranayamas. Sheetkari
Pranayama cools the body. Sheetkari pranayama is
mentioned in the yoga text Hatha Yoga Pradeepika.
Sheetkari is very similar to Sheetali
Pranayama. In Sheetkari, the tongue is not rolled into a tube;
instead, it is rolled up to touch the upper palate. The teeth are then clenched
and the lips are kept apart. Those who find it difficult to do Sheetali
Pranayama can easily practice Sheetkari and get similar benefits.
Do not do Sheetkari pranayama if you are
suffering from a cold. But if you are in a hot environment, it is ideal for
cooling the body.
Procedure
of Sheetkari Pranayama (The Hissing Breath)
- Sit in a
comfortable asana with palms on the knees.
- Roll the tongue
upwards so that the lower part of the tongue touches the upper palate.
- Clench the teeth
together. Pull the lips apart so that the teeth are exposed.
- Breathe in slowly.
First fill the abdomen, then the chest and finally the neck region. This
is the complete yogic breath. When breathing in, a slight hissing sound
is produced. This is similar to the hissing of a snake.
- Bend the neck
forward to do the chin lock, also called the
Jalandhara Bandha
- Hold the breath for
some time, as much as you are comfortable
- Release Jalandhara
Bandha and exhale slowly through the nose.
- This is one round
of Sheetkari Pranayama. One can do as many
rounds as you may feel comfortable.
Benefits
of Sheetkari Pranayama (the Hissing Breath)
- The action of
pulling the air through the teeth creates a cooling effect on the body.
- Sheetkari relaxes the body and the mind.
- According to Hatha
Yoga Pradeepika, Sheetkari removes
hunger, thirst, sleep and lassitude.
- Sheetkari is good
for health of teeth and the gums.
Nadis
Nāḍī = nerve, blood vessel, pulse: pronounced with
long vowel sounds and a retroflex is a term
for the channels through which, in traditional Indian medicine and spiritual
science, the energies of the physical body, the subtle
body and the causal body are said to flow. Within this philosophical
framework, the nadis are said to connect at special points of intensity called nadichakras.
In addition to the seven
chakras of the subtle body, the Tantras have described a network of subtle
channels known as nadis through which the life force (prana) circulate. Nadi
means "stream". According to the tantric treatise Shiva Samhita,
there are fourteen principal nadis. Of these, Ida, Pingala and Sushumna are
considered the most important.
Ida Nadi: Ida is the left
channel. Ida is white, feminine, cold, represents the moon and is associated
with the river Ganga (Ganges). Originating in Muladhara, Ida ends up in the
left nostril.
Pingala Nadi: Pingala is the
right channel. Pingala is red, masculine, hot, represents the sun and is
associated with the river Yamuna. Originating in Muladhara, Pingala ends up in
the right nostril.
Sushmna Nadi: Sushumna is the
central channel and is associated with the river Saraswati. Within the Sushumna
nadi there are three more subtle channels: Vajra, Chitrini and Brahma nadi
through which Kundalini moves upwards running up the body from just below
Muladhara chakra to Sahasrara chakra at the crown of the head.
Mudras
The physical body is made up of five elements namely - Air,
Water, Fire, Earth and Aakash (ether - the tiny intercellular spaces in the
human body).
Imbalance of these elements disrupts the immunity
system and causes disease.
Deficiencies in any of these elements can be made up by
connecting one part of the body with another in a particular manner through
Mudras.
When a finger representing an element is brought into contact
with the thumb, that element is brought into balance. Therefore the disease
caused by the imbalance is cured. Mudras start electromagnetic currents within
the body which balance various constituting elements and restore health. The
joining of fingers creates an effect on the human body.
Five Fingers for Five Elements
* Thumb
- Fire
* Index - Air
* Middle - Aakash
* Ring - Earth
* Little - Water
* Index - Air
* Middle - Aakash
* Ring - Earth
* Little - Water
Mudras for Benefits:
Gyan
Mudra
Method - Join the tips of the index finger and thumb and keep the other 3 fingers stretched and joined.
Method - Join the tips of the index finger and thumb and keep the other 3 fingers stretched and joined.
Benefit:
Effective in cases of mental ailment, imparts happiness, the intellect
develops, memory is sharpened.
Shoonya Mudra
Method - Press the middle finger on the base of the thumb and keep the thumb on middle finger. Keep the other three fingers straight.
Shoonya Mudra
Method - Press the middle finger on the base of the thumb and keep the thumb on middle finger. Keep the other three fingers straight.
Benefit:
Relief in diseases and pains relating to the ear.
Apaan Mudra
Method - Join the tip of the thumb with the tip of middle and ring finger, keeping the other finger straight.
Method - Join the tip of the thumb with the tip of middle and ring finger, keeping the other finger straight.
Benefit:Helps in clearing the body by
elimination of waste matter from the mouth, eyes, ears, nose etc. Helps when
urine is obstructed, reduces constipation.
Prana Mudra
Method - Join the tip of the thumb with tip of little and ring finger. Keeping other two fingers straight.
Method - Join the tip of the thumb with tip of little and ring finger. Keeping other two fingers straight.
Benefit:Helps
in pumping the life force into your body. Beneficial for all types of diseases.
Imparts special power to the eyes.
Vayu Mudra
Method - Press the index finger on the base of thumb and keep the thumb on the index finger. Let the other fingers be straight.
Method - Press the index finger on the base of thumb and keep the thumb on the index finger. Let the other fingers be straight.
Benefit:Helps
in diseases like arthritis, trembling in Parkinson's disease. Better results
obtained if practices after Prana mudra.
Prithvi Mudra
Method - Join the tip of the thumb and ring finger.
Method - Join the tip of the thumb and ring finger.
Benefit:Makes body sturdy. One experiences
happiness.
Varun Mudra
Method - Join the tip of the thumb and little finger.
Method - Join the tip of the thumb and little finger.
Benefit: Improves the deteriorated quality of
blood due to shortage of water & gives freshness to the body.
Surya Mudra
Method - Put the tip of ring finger at the base of thumb, with thumb gently pressing on it.
Surya Mudra
Method - Put the tip of ring finger at the base of thumb, with thumb gently pressing on it.
Benefit: Reduces weight of your body.
Ling Mudra
Method - Interlock the fingers of both hands together. Keeping the left thumb up (encircled by right thumb and index finger) i.e. left thumb should be vertically straight and right thumb around it.
Method - Interlock the fingers of both hands together. Keeping the left thumb up (encircled by right thumb and index finger) i.e. left thumb should be vertically straight and right thumb around it.
Benefit: Produces heat in the body and helps
in curing cold and cough.
When to do?
·
Can be practiced
at all times while sitting, lying, standing, walking or even talking.
·
For good results
should be practiced for 24 minutes continuously. Can be practiced for 4-5
minutes also at one time.
·
If a mudra cannot
be made in both hands, you may do it in one hand only
Bandha means to lock,
close-off, to stop. In the practice of a Bandha, the energy flow to a
particular area of the body is blocked. When the Bandha is released, this
causes the energy to flood more strongly through the body with an increased
pressure.
There are four types of
Bandhas:
Generally, the breath is
held during practice of the Bandhas. Mula Bandha and Jalandhara Bandha can be
performed after the inhalation as well as after the exhalation. Uddiyana Bandha
and Maha Bandha are only performed after the exhalation.
Mula
Bandha
Anal
Lock
StartingPosition:
Meditation Pose
Meditation Pose
Concentration:
on the Muladhara Chakra
on the Muladhara Chakra
Breath:
inhale deeply and hold the breath
inhale deeply and hold the breath
Repetitions:
3–5 rounds
3–5 rounds
Practice:
Inhale deeply and hold the breath. Place the hands on the knees, raise the shoulders and tilt the upper body slightly forward. Concentrate on the Muladhara Chakra and firmly contract the anal muscles. >Hold the muscular contraction and the breath as long as possible and comfortable. >With a long exhalation return to the starting position. >Breathing normally remain in this position for some time.
Inhale deeply and hold the breath. Place the hands on the knees, raise the shoulders and tilt the upper body slightly forward. Concentrate on the Muladhara Chakra and firmly contract the anal muscles. >Hold the muscular contraction and the breath as long as possible and comfortable. >With a long exhalation return to the starting position. >Breathing normally remain in this position for some time.
Benefits:
Strengthens the pelvic floor, relieves haemorrhoids and congestion in the pelvic area. Calms the autonomic nervous system, calms and relaxes the mind. On the spiritual level, Mula Bandha activates and purifies the Muladhara Chakra. It awakens dormant consciousness and the Kundalini Shakti.
Strengthens the pelvic floor, relieves haemorrhoids and congestion in the pelvic area. Calms the autonomic nervous system, calms and relaxes the mind. On the spiritual level, Mula Bandha activates and purifies the Muladhara Chakra. It awakens dormant consciousness and the Kundalini Shakti.
UDDIYANA
BANDHA
Lifting
the Diaphragm
StartingPosition:
Meditation Pose or Standing
Meditation Pose or Standing
Concentration:
on the Manipura Chakra
on the Manipura Chakra
Breath:
completely exhale and hold the breath out
completely exhale and hold the breath out
Repetitions:
3–5 rounds
3–5 rounds
Practice:
Completely exhale and hold the breath out. Place the hands on the knees, raise the shoulders and tilt the body forward slightly, keeping the back straight. (To practice this Bandha standing, separate the legs a little and bend the knees slightly.) >Concentrate on the Manipura Chakra, pull the abdominal muscles in and up into the abdominal cavity as far as possible. >Hold the position as long as comfortable. >Release the muscular tension and return to the starting position with a deep inhalation. >Breathing normally remain for some time in this position.
Completely exhale and hold the breath out. Place the hands on the knees, raise the shoulders and tilt the body forward slightly, keeping the back straight. (To practice this Bandha standing, separate the legs a little and bend the knees slightly.) >Concentrate on the Manipura Chakra, pull the abdominal muscles in and up into the abdominal cavity as far as possible. >Hold the position as long as comfortable. >Release the muscular tension and return to the starting position with a deep inhalation. >Breathing normally remain for some time in this position.
Benefits:
Activates the Manipura Chakra and solar plexus. Stimulates intestinal activity and helps relieve constipation. Stimulates the pancreas and is helpful for diabetes. Strengthens the immune system. Balances the mind, soothes irritability and anger and dispels a depressive mood.
Activates the Manipura Chakra and solar plexus. Stimulates intestinal activity and helps relieve constipation. Stimulates the pancreas and is helpful for diabetes. Strengthens the immune system. Balances the mind, soothes irritability and anger and dispels a depressive mood.
Caution:
Perform only on an empty stomach! Do not practice this Bandha with high blood pressure.
Perform only on an empty stomach! Do not practice this Bandha with high blood pressure.
JALLANDHARA
BANDHA
Chin
Lock
StartingPosition:
Meditation Pose
Meditation Pose
Concentration:
on the Vishuddhi Chakra
on the Vishuddhi Chakra
Breath:
inhale deeply and hold the breath
inhale deeply and hold the breath
Repetitions:
3–5 rounds
3–5 rounds
Practice:
Inhale deeply and hold the breath. Place the hands on the knees, lift the shoulders and tilt the body forward slightly, keeping the back straight. Press the chin firmly against the chest or between the collarbones so that the windpipe and oesophagus are firmly closed. >Concentrate on the Vishuddhi Chakra and hold the breath for as long as comfortable. >Raise the head and with a long exhalation return to the starting position. >Breathing normally remain in this position for some time.
Inhale deeply and hold the breath. Place the hands on the knees, lift the shoulders and tilt the body forward slightly, keeping the back straight. Press the chin firmly against the chest or between the collarbones so that the windpipe and oesophagus are firmly closed. >Concentrate on the Vishuddhi Chakra and hold the breath for as long as comfortable. >Raise the head and with a long exhalation return to the starting position. >Breathing normally remain in this position for some time.
Benefits:
This exercise awakens the inner energy centres, especially the Vishuddhi Chakra. Improves the ability to retain the breath for a long period of time and develops the ability to concentrate. Beneficial for throat diseases and regulates thyroid function.
This exercise awakens the inner energy centres, especially the Vishuddhi Chakra. Improves the ability to retain the breath for a long period of time and develops the ability to concentrate. Beneficial for throat diseases and regulates thyroid function.
Caution:
The breath should only be held for as long as easily possible. Consult a Doctor before practicing if there is an existing thyroid problem.
The breath should only be held for as long as easily possible. Consult a Doctor before practicing if there is an existing thyroid problem.
MAHA
BANDHA
The
Great Bandha
StartingPosition:
Meditation Pose
Meditation Pose
Concentration:
on the Muladhara, Manipura and Vishuddhi Chakras
on the Muladhara, Manipura and Vishuddhi Chakras
Breath:
exhale completely and hold the breath
exhale completely and hold the breath
Repetitions:
3–5 rounds
3–5 rounds
Practice:
Inhale deeply and exhale fully through the mouth. >Hold the breath out. >Place the hands on the knees, raise the shoulders and tilt the upper body forward slightly, keeping the back straight. >Perform Jalandhara Bandha and concentrate on the Vishuddhi Chakra. >Perform Uddiyana Bandha and concentrate on the Manipura Chakra. >Finally, come into Mula Bandha and concentrate on the Muladhara Chakra. >Remain in this position, with all three Bandhas maintained, for as long as the breath can easily be held. >Release the Bandhas in the same sequence as they were applied. >Inhale deeply and return to the starting position. Breathing normally remain for some time in this position.
Inhale deeply and exhale fully through the mouth. >Hold the breath out. >Place the hands on the knees, raise the shoulders and tilt the upper body forward slightly, keeping the back straight. >Perform Jalandhara Bandha and concentrate on the Vishuddhi Chakra. >Perform Uddiyana Bandha and concentrate on the Manipura Chakra. >Finally, come into Mula Bandha and concentrate on the Muladhara Chakra. >Remain in this position, with all three Bandhas maintained, for as long as the breath can easily be held. >Release the Bandhas in the same sequence as they were applied. >Inhale deeply and return to the starting position. Breathing normally remain for some time in this position.
Benefits:
Beneficial for the health of the whole body, especially the autonomic nervous system, internal organs, muscles and nerves. Has a positive influence upon the mind.
Beneficial for the health of the whole body, especially the autonomic nervous system, internal organs, muscles and nerves. Has a positive influence upon the mind.
Caution:
The precautions given for each of the individual Bandhas are also valid for Maha Bandha.
The precautions given for each of the individual Bandhas are also valid for Maha Bandha.
Common
Cautions:
·
Before attempting to perform the Bandhas, the breathing
techniques of the previous levels must have been practiced regularly for a long
period of time.
·
Before proceeding with the breath exercise in this and the
following levels, first read and study the explanation given for the relevant
Bandhas and Mudras as they are incorporated into the breathing techniques.
·
A longer and more intensive practice of Mula Bandha should only
be undertaken with the guidance of an experienced “Yoga in Daily Life”
instructor.
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