Do you know that proper breathing techniques can help improve your overall health and wellbeing? Anuloma-Viloma, also known as Nadi Shodhana Pranayama or alternate nostril breathing, is a yogic breathing technique that can help you achieve better health by bringing balance to your mind and body. In this article, we'll explore the benefits and techniques of Anuloma-Viloma.
What is Anuloma-Viloma?
Anuloma-Viloma is a yogic breathing technique that involves alternate nostril breathing to balance the two hemispheres of the brain and purify the energy channels in the body. This practice involves inhaling through one nostril and exhaling through the other, then repeating the process in reverse. By alternating the breath through each nostril, you can balance the flow of energy in the body and bring a sense of calm and balance to your mind.
What Are the Benefits of Anuloma-Viloma?
Anuloma-Viloma is known to have many benefits for the mind and body, including:
- Reducing stress and anxiety
- Improving lung function and respiratory health
- Increasing focus and concentration
- Enhancing overall wellbeing and energy levels
- Balancing the two hemispheres of the brain
How to Practice Anuloma-Viloma
To practice Anuloma-Viloma, you will need to sit in a comfortable seated position with your spine straight and your eyes closed. Here's how to perform the technique:
- Use your right hand to block your right nostril with your thumb.
- Inhale slowly and deeply through your left nostril.
- Pause briefly at the end of the inhale.
- Block your left nostril with your ring finger.
- Exhale slowly and fully through your right nostril.
- Inhale through your right nostril.
- Pause briefly at the end of the inhale.
- Block your right nostril with your thumb.
- Exhale slowly and fully through your left nostril.
Repeat this cycle of inhaling and exhaling for several minutes, gradually increasing the duration of your inhales and exhales as you become more comfortable with the practice.
Tips for Practicing Anuloma-Viloma
Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your Anuloma-Viloma practice:
- Practice on an empty stomach for best results.
- Find a quiet, calm place to practice where you won't be disturbed.
- Begin with just a few minutes of practice and gradually increase the duration over time.
- Focus on the sensation of the breath moving in and out of your nostrils to help bring your mind into the present moment.
- If you feel lightheaded or uncomfortable, stop the practice and return to your normal breath.
Anuloma-Viloma is a powerful yogic breathing technique that can help improve your overall health and wellbeing. By bringing balance to your mind and body, this practice can help reduce stress and anxiety, increase focus and concentration, and enhance your energy levels. With a few minutes of practice each day, you can experience the many benefits of Anuloma-Viloma and take control of your health and wellbeing.
