This week, we focus on two important breathing techniques that not only removes toxins from the body but also improve the airflow and reduce stress.
Nadi Shodhan Pranayama
This is also called as Anulom Vilom or alternate nostril breathing. On a normal day, we all breath predominantly through one of the nostrils. After some time, it changes automatically to the other nostril. You can observe this by placing your palm around 6 inches below your nose in the direction of the airflow.
This yogic exercise brings a balance to this flow of air by making the shift in normal breathing. This has a tremendous effect on purifying lungs and many practitioners have observed relaxation from negative emotions, stress, and depression.
How to do it:
- Sit comfortably with your spine straight
- Place your right thumb on your right nostril and ring finger on your left nostril. Keep your index finger pointing the center of your eyebrows.
- Block your right nostril, by gently pressing your thumb and inhale through your left nostril. Now block your left nostril with your ring finger and exhale through your right nostril.
- Inhale through your right nostril and block with the thumb finger. Now open the left nostril by removing your ring finger and exhale.
- Repeat the above steps 3 & 4 for 10 breaths and take 3 normal breaths.
- Repeat the same process for 5 minutes.
Kapalbhati Pranayama
Kapalbhati is one of the most popular yoga asanas that help to reduce stress and has a positive impact on your body and soul. Follow the simple steps below.
- Inhale through your nostrils normally until your lungs are full
- Exhale through both nostrils forcefully
- After a count of 15, take 10 normal breaths
- Repeat the above 3 steps for 15 minutes
After this exercise you may feel a little dizzy. If you feel uncomfortable, stop immediately. Your ability to do this will come in a couple of weeks’ time. You will enjoy a relaxed head and lungs.
If you want to have practical advice on the yoga asanas, reach out to our partners near your area. Our partners are carefully selected after verifying their experience and reputation.