Yoga, the literal translation of the Sanskrit word in English means ‘to Unite’. The idea is to show the yogi (the practitioner of Yoga), how to achieve Union or Spiritual Absorption into the Supreme Absolute. The Westerners in the 1980s, popularized Yoga as a form of physical exercise, but in India it is more than a form of exercise. It is a lifestyle which is more spiritual and aims at mental well being, dates back to the pre-vedic Indian traditions during the 5th and 6th Centuries BC. (Wikipedia). I was introduced to Yoga back in school and everyone here learns Yoga as part of their school curriculum.
Without getting any deeper into the forms and the schools of thought in Yoga, this introductory post will give you a clearer picture on the breathing technique aimed at relaxation. The idea is to concentrate on the inhale and exhale while in any aasana/pose. Your breathing style should be a slow process, each lasting to 3 counts initially later stretching to 5 counts. The aim is to relax yourself by observing how each breath would calm your nerves and muscles.
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Chandranuloma Viloma & Suryanuloma Viloma (Alternalte Nostril Praanayama)
Pranayama: Prana- Life or Breath, ayama – to extend or drag out, therefore it means to control your breath by extended it. Relaxing yourself by inhaling and exhale exclusively from each one of your Nostrils 9 times.
How Tos:
- You may sit in any position – Padmasana, Veerasana, Vajrasana or even Shavasana
- Fold your Index and middle finger for the Naasika Mudra
- To breath from the left nostril, place your thumb on the right nostril to block it.
- Slowly inhale and exhale from the the left nostril 9 times
- Then do the same with the right nostril
It is important to fold in the index and middle fingers because this stimulates specific ‘nadis’ or veins in your body, and this adds value to your pranayama practice. This aids breathing and concentration , While breathing remember to hold your breath for 3 counts.
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Photo Credits: Haarika Reddy
Black Sequin Top: Sisley bought from Myntra
Monochrome Leggings – Myntra.com
This breathing technique in Yoga is the most basic of all & a great way to relax. You may practice it anywhere, all you need is 10 minutes. More on Yoga in my future posts, so do keep visiting. You may also leave your comments on: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Bloglovin | Lookbook | StylePile | Chictopia | Wooplr | Pinterest
xoxo
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