Types of paranayama (Breathing).

By Yogiclavkush Yogic Lavkush March 13, 2023

Pranayama is an ancient practice that involves controlling and directing the breath in order to tap into the body’s vital energy, or prana. This practice has been used for thousands of years in traditional Indian medicine and yoga to help individuals achieve mental clarity, physical health, and spiritual enlightenment.

There are many types of pranayama, each with its own unique benefits and effects on the body and mind. In this article, we will explore 10 different types of pranayama and how they can help improve your health and wellbeing.

1. Kapalbhati Pranayama

Kapalbhati pranayama is a powerful breathing technique that involves forceful exhalations through the nose while the inhalation is passive. This practice helps to activate the abdominal muscles, promote digestion, and increase the flow of oxygen to the brain. It is also known to be a great stress reliever and helps to clear the mind.

2. Anulom Vilom Pranayama

Anulom vilom pranayama is a well-known and popular pranayama technique that involves alternately breathing through each nostril. This practice helps to balance the flow of air and energy through the body, improve respiratory health, and promote relaxation and mental clarity.

3. Bhramari Pranayama

Bhramari pranayama, also known as “humming bee breath,” involves making a humming sound while exhaling through the nose. This practice helps to calm the nerves, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve concentration.

4. Ujjayi Pranayama

Ujjayi pranayama is a deep breathing technique that involves breathing through the nose while constricting the back of the throat, creating a sound similar to ocean waves. This type of pranayama helps to warm the body, improve lung function, and promote relaxation.

5. Nadi Shodhana Pranayama

Nadi Shodhana pranayama, also known as “alternate nostril breathing,” involves alternating breathing through each nostril while using the fingers to block one nostril at a time. This practice helps to balance the flow of energy through the body, improve respiratory health, and reduce stress and anxiety.

6. Sheetali Pranayama

Sheetali pranayama is a cooling breathing technique that involves rolling the tongue and inhaling through it, followed by a slow exhale through the nose. This practice helps to cool the body, reduce inflammation, and promote relaxation.

7. Shitali Pranayama

Shitali pranayama is similar to Sheetali pranayama, but instead of rolling the tongue, the lips are pursed and air is inhaled through the mouth. This practice helps to cool the body, improve digestion, and relieve stress and tension.

8. Brahmari Pranayama

Brahmari pranayama, or “bee breath,” involves closing the ears with the fingers and making a humming sound while inhaling and exhaling deeply through the nose. This practice helps to calm the mind, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve concentration.

9. Surya Bhedana Pranayama

Surya Bhedana pranayama is a type of pranayama that involves inhaling through the right nostril while blocking the left nostril with the fingers. This practice is said to activate the “pingala” or solar energy channel in the body and increase vitality and energy.

10. Chandra Bhedana Pranayama

Chandra Bhedana pranayama is similar to Surya Bhedana pranayama, but involves inhaling through the left nostril while blocking the right nostril with the fingers. This practice is said to activate the “ida” or lunar energy channel in the body and promote relaxation and calming of the mind.

In conclusion, there are many types of pranayama that can be practiced to achieve different results. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, improve breathing, or promote overall health and wellbeing, incorporating pranayama into your daily routine can be an effective way to achieve your goals. It is important to remember to practice pranayama under the guidance of a trained yoga teacher, as some techniques may require modifications or adjustments based on individual needs and abilities.