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Pranayama

​When our breath flows smoothly in, out and through our body, we experience balanced energy and health.
What is Pranayama?
  • ​"Prana" is life force energy. "Yama" is to restrain or control.
  • Pranayama is the Sanskrit word for the control or regulation of the breath.
  • Pranayama is incredibly powerful but can be harmful when improperly executed.
  • Different types of pranayama balance different things in our physical, mental and emotional bodies.​​ For example, some pranayama practices create a cooling effect on the body, others a warming or heating effect.
There are many types of Pranayama, or yogic breathing practices, all with a myriad of benefits.

Some popular traditional practices are:  
  • Ujjayi (Victorious Breath) creates an anchor for awareness and cleanses the channels.
  • Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing) creates balance and calmness in your mind and body.
  • Shitali (Cooling Breath) cools and calms your nervous system and can be especially helpful during the summer or any time you're feeling overheated.
  • Bhastrika (Bellows Breath) helps to energize your body and clear your mind.
  • Kapalabhati (Skull Shining Breath) will help to purify, rejuvenate and invigorate your mind and body.​
Please note:

​
Pranayama is powerful and can create imbalance when performed incorrectly. Make sure to proceed slowly. It is best to work with a qualified practitioner to learn correct methods and to determine which styles are best for you.

For those who are new to pranayama, I always recommend starting with Nadi Shodhana, as it is a very balancing pranayama technique. 
Learn more about the benefits of breathing exercises here.
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