Pranayam, originally a Sanskrit word composed using two words namely ‘Prana’ and ‘ayama’. Pran means universal life force and ayama means to extend or regulate. Practicing regularly helps in purifying the blood, improves breathing pattern and resistance power. The three main aspects of pranayama are inhalation, exhalation and retention.
Different Types of Pranayama
Bhastrika Pranayam: Sit in Sukha Asana position and take a deep breath slowly till the lungs are full of fresh air. After holding the air for a few seconds exhale the air faster. The process of exhaling must be faster than inhaling. Repeat the process for 5-10 times.
Kapalbhati Pranayam: Inhale slowly till the lungs are full and then exhale forcefully through both the nostrils. Push the stomach inside while exhaling and repeat the process for at least 15 minutes a day. This helps in relieving from acidity, gas, obesity and abdominal related problems.
Baghi Pranayam: Exhale all the air from the lungs and try to push the stomach inside by pressure. Hold it for a moment and the inhale fresh air. Again exhale the air hold for a moment and again inhale. Repeat the process for 10-15 times.
Bhramari Pranayam: Close one nostril with a finger and inhale from the other nostril which is open. Now close the already open nostril and exhale using the open nostril. In the nest step inhale using the already open nostril and later close it and exhale with the other nostril. By doing so it helps in curing migraine, asthma, Bronchitis and diabetes.
Udgeeth Pranayam: Close the eyes and sit in Sukha Asana or dhyan asan. Take a deep breath and release the air through the mouth in such a way that it sounds “OM”. With this the throat and nervous system related disorders can be cured.
There are nearly 50 types of pranayam like Bhramri pranayam, Chandrabhedan, Suryabhedan, Bhastrika, Ujjayi, Sheetali, Sheetkari, etc.
Health Benefits of doing Pranayam
Pranayam nurtures bodily health and mental clarity. The ancient breath control practice has many health advantages in relieving symptoms like Asthma. It is also beneficial for people who are suffering with anxiety, stress related disorders and depression.
Sukha Pranayam improves concentration, provides relaxation to mind and body. It also strengthens the nervous and respiratory systems. Sukha Pranayam is good for people suffering with stress and depression.
Kapalbhati, another type of Pranayam helps in fighting diabetes, asthma, chronic bronchitis and other nervous problems. This pranayama cleanses the nasal passage and purifies the front part of the brain.
Dirgha Pranayam is most beneficial for pregnant women and helps during the labor process. It is also recommended for singers because it helps in promoting a clear voice and also helps in keeping the peace of mind.
Nadi Shodhan cleanses the nervous system and strengthens the heart. It helps in clearing the blocked nostrils and removes mental tensions also.
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