A Brief Guide To Pranayama - Safety Guidelines And Rules

Before we go into details of Pranayama - safety guidelines and rules, let us quickly understand what pranayama is. It is a series of breathing exercises that are known to regulate the prana (life) in the body. Practicing these exercises helps in oxygenating the cells of the body resulting in healthy mind and body.

There are few Pranayama - safety guidelines and rules that you should observe in order to enjoy its benefits and to avoid any injuries and health problems.

Supervision
If you are a beginner, you should start these exercises under an experienced trainer. In Pranayama, you have to maintain a correct posture and follow all its steps so that it has a positive impact on your physical and mental health. You can learn all about Pranayama from a trained instructor.

Health
If you are suffering from any health problem, you should consult your doctor before starting these breathing exercises.

Time Of Exercise
It is best to do Pranayama in the morning. If you cannot practice it in the morning, then you should make sure to do it at least two to three hours after eating food. These exercises are done on an empty stomach.

Place Of Practicing
Always choose a peaceful and serene place for doing Pranayama. To get its benefits, it is essential that your mind and body is calm. Also, the place should be well ventilated and free from pollution. These exercises involve deep breathing and hence it is essential that the air you breathe is clean.

Clothes
Wear loose cotton clothes so that your body can breathe properly. Loose clothing also helps in the free movement of the body.

Duration
The beginners should devote only 10 minutes to these breathing asanas. They should then gradually increase the duration. However, you should remember that you should never stretch yourself. Do Pranayama only for the time duration you feel comfortable.

Breathing
You should always breathe through your nose while doing these exercises. Always breathe gently. Do not force yourself. There are different Pranayama - patterns of rest that are practiced between inhalation and exhalation. The main purpose of controlling breath is to control the mind. Beginners should never hold their breath for too long, otherwise they may feel dizzy. You should breathe in a rhythmic fashion giving due importance to both the inhalation and the exhalation. Exhalation should be slow and smooth just like inhalation.

Concentration
In all kinds of yoga, it is important that you should concentrate on the asanas. If you do Pranayama with your mind wandering elsewhere, it will be of no use to you.

If the above Pranayama - safety guidelines and rules are followed then Pranayama can immensely help you to stay fit. People suffering from various health problems are known to have benefited from practicing these breathing techniques. Not only does it help to improve, circulatory and respiratory systems but it also improves the immunity of the body and helps to reduce stress, fear, anxiety and depression.