Pranayama Techniques and Benefits

Posted on December 10, 2007 in Yoga Basics

Yogic breathing is called Pranayama. Pranayama consists of two words- ‘Prana’ means ‘Life’ in Sanskrit and ‘Yamaha’ means ‘Discipline and Control.’ The objective of Pranayama is to attain complete control of the Prana .It is the breathing process or the control of the motion of inhalation, exhalation and the retention of vital energy.

Pranayama Techniques

Abdominal Breath –This technique is also called as “Diaphramatic Breath” or “Natural Breath.” It allows one to breathe deeply into the lungs, using the diaphragm.  Begins to reset our patterns from shallow chest breathing to deep, healthy, belly breathing.

Dirgha Pranayama – This technique is also called as “Yogic Breath” or “Three-part breath” or “Complete Breath.” It purges the body of carbon dioxide, oxygenates the blood, and promotes relaxation.  It completely fills our lungs with oxygen.  It expands and stretches the lungs gently by increasing lung capacity. It brings a higher level of oxygen into the blood stream.

Ujjayi Pranayama – This technique is also called as “Ocean Sounding” or “Victorious Breath.” The sound created by this breath has been described as a “soft hissing sound” or a “gentle snore.” It increases body heat, the sound calms and focuses the mind, allowing you to relax more deeply. It can be used to both lower blood pressure and slow heart rate or to increase blood pressure and heart rate, depending upon whether one is utilizing the Ashtanga style of forceful ujjayi or the meditative style of slow and soft ujjayi. It is also used for pain reduction, insomnia, and migraines.

Nadi Shodhana – This technique is also called as “Sweet Breath” or “Channel Purification Breath” or “Alternate Nostril Breath.” It’s often used to alleviate anxiety, headaches, and/or fatigue. It brings balance to the right and left hemispheres of the brain.

Kapalabhati – This technique is also called as “Skull Polishing Breath.” It increases circulation, energizes the body, brings a high level of oxygen into the blood stream.

Breath of Fire - This technique is also called as “Bellows Breathing.” It strengthens chest and diaphragm, loosens spine, stretches lungs, and controls the breath at a different level.

Analoma Veloma – This is an Advanced Breathing Technique for experienced meditators and yogis who already have an established breathing practice. It brings one to a deep, contemplative state of mind, and to master over the physical breath.

Benefits of Pranayama

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