Breathing is life. It is one of our most vital functions. One of the Five Principles of Yoga is Pranayama or Breathing Exercise which promotes proper breathing. In a Yogic point of view, proper breathing is to bring more oxygen to the blood and to the brain, and to control Prana or the vital life energy. Pranayama Yoga also goes hand in hand with the Asanas. The union of these two Yogic Principles is considered as the highest form of purification and self-discipline, covering both mind and body. And in this day and age a girl needs all the balance she can get !
Anulom Vilom Pranayama is one of the best and easy most breathing exercises for complete purification of body as well as mind. It completely cures most of the internal body diseases without any medicine. It vanishes stress of body and mind. If practiced regularly with devotion, anulom vilom not only intensifies the inner strength of body but also enhances ones ability to focus and enjoy a deeper meditative experience.
Due to increased oxygen intake during this pranayam exercise, one feels clear headed and calm. Regular practice helps in relieving stress, cold, mild fevers, eye and ear problems, etc. It is also beneficial in migraine, chronic sinus problems, blockages in the arteries of the heart are removed, and blood circulation is also improved. Your approach towards life will also change for the better i.e from negative to positive.
To practice this breathing exercise sit cross legged or to modify the exercise you can sit in a chair. The most important thing is to make sure your back is straight so the energy can flow unobstructed through the body. Take your left hand and with your left thumb block your left nostril. Inhale for a count of 4 through the right nostril. Hold the breath for a count of 16. Block the right nostril with the left middle finger and exhale for a count of 8 through the left nostril. Now inhale through the left nostril for a count of 4, block the left nostril and hold for 16 and exhale for 8 counts through the right nostril. Continue for at least 5 minutes building up to 15 minutes.
I have done this when I have been overworked, jet lagged, battling the insomnia dragon, when I need to be hyper focused or just plain wanting to pump up the volume in my meditation practice. So, set aside a few minutes each day this week to practice this technique and see what changes take place. All you have to do is breath…