Different pranayama methods of yoga
Aug 02 , 2021
Pranayama has always been considered an important aspect of yoga. This exercise focuses on controlling and regulating your breathing through specific breathing techniques and exercises. Pranayama is divided into three stages. The first stage is inhalation through the nostrils, called Puraka. The second is to exhale, called Rechaka, and the third is to hold your breath inside or outside the body, called Kumbhaka.
The word "prana" is Sanskrit, meaning life force; "ayama" means stretch or stretch. Therefore, the word "Pranayama" means the control of vitality, which is essentially breathing.
There are many benefits of regular breathing exercises:
Increase vital capacity
Strengthen the abdominal muscles
Lower blood pressure
reduce cholesterol
Good for sinus problems
relieve pressure
Improve alertness
Different exercises of pranayama and when to use them
In order to focus on your breathing, there are various techniques known to allow your mind and body to focus.
Three parts breath: Dirga Pranayama
This exercise is perfect for those who want to start practicing pranayama. By completing the three-part breath, it teaches the body how to effectively fill and empty the lungs while focusing on the present moment. This is very important if you are not used to making full use of your lung capacity, and can be a very useful technique for relieving the stress or tension of daily life.
Lion's breath: Simhasana Pranayama
Simhasana Pranayama is very suitable to relieve the tension and pressure of the body by stretching the entire face, leaving the body and mind unimpeded. The method of practice is to lower the chin to open the mouth, stretch the tongue (don’t know why there is a gap here) and curl it downward when exhaling forcefully. This powerful exhalation helps to release negative emotions, such as anger and resentment that usually exist in the body.
Skeleton shining breath: Kapalabhati Pranayama
For those who have experience in Pranayama, Kapalabhati is known for being an exhilarating and warming exercise. Since it helps strengthen the diaphragm and abdominal muscles, while providing energy for the brain, this exercise helps prepare for tasks that require concentration. This is an advanced breathing exercise. If it is not done correctly, the individual may feel dizzy, so it can only be performed under the supervision of an experienced teacher.
Nostril breathing: Nadi Shodhana
Nadi Shodhana Pranayama is a Hatha Yoga practice that purifies the energy channels of the body. In Nadi Shodhana's practice, you will block one nostril and inhale and exhale through the open passage before changing sides. This is especially helpful for relieving thoughts or relieving anxiety and stress before going to bed. Alternating nostril breathing also helps to improve your ability to concentrate at the beginning and end of the exercise.
Ocean Breath: Ujjayi Pranayama
Ujjayi breathing is a technique that calms the sympathetic nervous system while increasing oxygen consumption. When you reduce the amount of air passing through your throat, you will extend your breathing cycle, so it is long, complete, deep and controllable. This practice is often used in flow yoga because it is very powerful and therefore can support a strong flow.
By using pranayama as part of your practice, you will begin to see many benefits both physically and mentally. We have discussed some of the many different techniques for practicing breathing techniques, so it is important to realize that when practicing any breathing technique, you should practice it with a qualified teacher in a safe environment.
