The essence of Yoga lies in the idea of being aware. A state of mind achieved by daily practice, awareness of breath is precisely attained through Pranayama. While Prana means “life” & Yama means “control,” both the words together point at “control of breath.” Pranayama directly impacts your nervous system and is advised to practice before sunrise when oxygen is available in abundance. The simple science of inhaling and exhaling, but when incorporated in life, could do wonders in improving health. Since Pranayama brings focus into practice, it is quite essential to choose an environment free from distractions.
Types of Pranayama asana for beginners-
Anulom-Vilom-
Sit in Padmasana and close your eyes. With the use of the right thumb, close the right nostril while inhaling from your left nostril. Now close the left nostril with the left thumb and simultaneously remove the right thumb from your right nostril while exhaling slowly.
Bharamari-
Place both the thumbs on each ear, index fingers on your temple, and the rest of your closed eyes. Inhale through nose while keeping your mouth closed, hold the breath for a few seconds and exhale slowly by chanting a humming sound.
Kapalbhati-
In this breathing technique, an extra force is applied while exhaling. Inhale slowly as much air as your lungs could take, then exhale forcefully and experience a pull of stomach muscles towards the backbone.
Top benefits of Pranayama-
Pranayama’s regular practice strengthens your immunity system, making one less vulnerable to common cold and fever.
The added advantage of Pranayama lies in improving your lung capacity also helps you quit smoking.
When done in the early morning, these breathing techniques rejuvenate one’s body and soul. No more mood swings!
Those who are suffering from hypertension or high blood pressure, such asana have proven to bring relief.
Letting your belly breathe while performing Kapalbhati helps in the overall betterment of your metabolism.
Pranayama also eliminates other diseases such as Cough & Cold, Asthama, Bronchitis, and Sinusitis & Migraine Attacks.Breathing exercises as these create a vent so one could release harmful toxins from the body. The glow on your face post-session would serve as proof.
Yoga is meant to be an insufferable process. The “Yoga” word itself means sitting in a comfortable pose and not making the process a hardcore workout. It is essential for the mind as much as it is for the body. Hence if you are a beginner, we suggest sitting in a normal cross-legged posture while keeping your back straight but refrain from putting any strain. Perform all the above-mentioned breathing exercises while seated in a comfortable pose. Initially, we recommend performing each exercise for 2 to 3 minutes post, which one could increase the time as per convenience. A busy life would be glad to indulge in 20 minutes of idle time, doing nothing.