Yoga Day » Sheetali Pranayama

Sheetali Pranayama

The word “sheetal” in Hindi refers to as cold or cooling. It is obvious from the name that this pranayama has a cooling effect on the entire body of the person. In other words it is just the opposite of Ujjayi pranayama. This pranayama is practiced to produce calming effect on the mind as well as on the body. This pranayama is particularly important during the summer months, when many people experience restlessness, due to the intense heat.

Benefits of Sheetali Pranayama

This pranayama creates a cooling effect on the body and helps all the nerves and muscles to relax.
As per Vedic texts, practicing this pranayama daily can provide relief from problems related to enlarged spleen, fever, colic and disorders of the bile.
Practising this pranayama on a daily basis provides the power of controlling hunger and thirst.
Sheetali pranayama can also help people suffering from issues related to the digestive system.

How to do the Sheetali Pranayama

Sit in a comfortable posture and take few deep breaths to practice the act of inhaling and exhaling
Bring the tongue all out and roll it on the sideways. If you find it difficult, simply form an “o” with your tongue
Use the curled up tongue for inhaling air
Retain the air and lower your head to the chin and try to hold your breath for few seconds.
When you are ready to exhale, lift your chin and exhale using your right nostril. Using Ujjayi breath, exhale slowly through the left nostril.
Repeat this procedure at least 5 times every day for best results .

Precaution

Do not practice this pranayama during the winter months.
Do not practice this pranayama if you are dealing with problems related to cold, cough and asthma
Practicing this pranayama is not advisable for people suffering from low blood pressure or constipation.

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