Complete Guide Of Pranayama Breathing Techniques For Beginners

This guide teaches the Pranayama-based breathing techniques for beginners, who wish to maintain good health using this fantastic tool. In this guide we will tell you all about Pranayama, the much-needed safety guidelines while you perform the process of pranayama and little insight into what lays next, i.e. the advanced breathing techniques.

All About Pranayama

According to Hindu mythology, the word Pranayama is split into two 'Prana' and 'yama'. Prana means the energy force which drives the life, and Yama connotes into taking control of something. The process of pranayama is used to gain better control on the breathing process, and in turn, gain control over life. This process of breathing is done in many ways and has many effects.

The complete process of pranayama consists of four stages. They are:

  1. Puraka - It is the process of inhalation. In this first step of the pranayama process the air must be inhaled in a slow and controlled way. Initially, keep the pace little slow and also do not strain yourself.
  2. Antara Kumbhaka - It is the process of retaining the breath in the lungs. This is the second stage of the pranayama process. In this stage, you master the process of retaining the air in the lungs by locking the air flow at the neck. This stage must be practiced only after you master the first stage.
  3. Rechaka - This is the process to exhale. This is the process of exhalation. Just like the puraka process, this process also needs to be done slowly and in a controlled way. Break the breathing process if you feel the strain.
  4. Bahya Kumbhaka - In this process, the lungs are emptied off the air. This is the stage which is practiced after the exhalation and before inhalation. Generally after a lot of practice, this is the stage in which the lungs have little or no air.

The following are some safety guidelines, which you need to take care of while you practice pranayama.

What Do I Wear, While Performing The Pranayama Exercise?
Anything in which you feel comfortable in can be worn while performing the pranayama exercise. Make sure, the clothing you wear is loose around the abdomen. This helps in free flow of the air, which in turn will help gain better results.

Are There Any Diet Restrictions?
Yes, for better results you should follow some diet restrictions. The stomach should be empty from at least 2-3 hours prior to the time you start practicing pranayama. Light and fresh food diet is always welcome. While you perform the breathing exercises a little intake of water is permitted.

How Should I Sit Through While Performing This Breathing Exercise?
In order to have a smooth flow of energy, make sure you sit straight with your back as straight as possible. Tuck in the chin a little bit, this will ensure that the neck is in line with the spinal cord. This particular sitting posture is especially helpful for the pranayama breathing techniques for beginners.