Pranayama (Breathing Techniques) Glossary

What is Pratiloma Pranayama (Opposite Nostril Breathing)? Pratiloma Pranayama, also known as Opposite Nostril Breathing, is a breathing technique that involves inhaling and exhaling through alternate nostrils. This pranayama technique is a form of controlled breathing that is commonly practiced in yoga and meditation. The word “Pratiloma” means opposite or reverse, and “Pranayama” refers to … Read more

What is Svadhisthana Chakra Pranayama? Svadhisthana Chakra Pranayama is a breathing technique that focuses on the second chakra, known as the Svadhisthana Chakra. This chakra is located in the lower abdomen, just below the navel, and is associated with creativity, sensuality, and emotional balance. By practicing Svadhisthana Chakra Pranayama, you can activate and balance this … Read more

I. What is Brahmana Pranayama? Brahmana Pranayama is a type of yogic breathing exercise that focuses on expanding the breath and increasing energy in the body. In Sanskrit, “Brahmana” means expanding or increasing, and “Pranayama” refers to breath control. This practice involves deep, rhythmic breathing techniques that help to calm the mind, reduce stress, and … Read more

I. What is Chandra Bhedana Kumbhaka? Chandra Bhedana Kumbhaka is a breathing technique in yoga that involves inhaling through the left nostril and exhaling through the right nostril. This pranayama practice is known for its calming and cooling effects on the body and mind. The word “Chandra” means moon, and this technique is believed to … Read more

I. What is Vyana Pranayama? Vyana Pranayama is a breathing technique that is part of the ancient practice of yoga. In Sanskrit, “Vyana” means “expansion” or “circulation,” and “pranayama” refers to breath control. This particular pranayama technique focuses on expanding the breath throughout the entire body, promoting circulation and energy flow. During Vyana Pranayama, the … Read more

I. What is Surya Bhedana Kumbhaka? Surya Bhedana Kumbhaka is a pranayama technique that involves breathing in through the right nostril and holding the breath for a certain period of time before exhaling through the left nostril. This practice is said to activate the Pingala Nadi, which is associated with the sun energy in the … Read more

I. What is Samana Pranayama (Balancing Energy Breath)? Samana Pranayama is a breathing technique that focuses on balancing the energy within the body. In Sanskrit, “Samana” means equalizing or balancing, and “Pranayama” refers to breath control. This practice involves regulating the breath to create harmony between the body, mind, and spirit. By practicing Samana Pranayama, … Read more

I. What is Sitkari Pranayama? Sitkari Pranayama is a breathing technique in the practice of yoga that involves inhaling through the mouth with the teeth clenched and exhaling through the nose. This pranayama technique is known for its cooling and calming effects on the mind and body. The word “Sitkari” is derived from the Sanskrit … Read more

I. What is Langhana Pranayama? Langhana Pranayama is a type of breathing exercise in yoga that focuses on reducing and eliminating excess energy or toxins from the body. The word “Langhana” in Sanskrit means “to reduce” or “to diminish,” and Pranayama refers to the practice of controlling the breath. By practicing Langhana Pranayama, one can … Read more

I. What is Vishama Vritti Pranayama? Vishama Vritti Pranayama is a breathing technique that involves irregular or uneven breathing patterns. In Sanskrit, “vishama” means irregular or uneven, and “vritti” refers to the fluctuations of the mind. This pranayama technique focuses on controlling the breath in a way that mimics the natural fluctuations of the mind. … Read more