It’s summertime, and according to Ayurveda, it’s pitta season. This means that the fire and water elements are at their peak, leading to feelings of excess heat in the body. This excess heat can manifest in various ways, including inflammation, acid indigestion, skin rashes, and even emotional agitation. But don’t worry! There’s an ancient yoga technique that can help you stay naturally cool – Sheetali Pranayama.
What is Sheetali Pranayama?
Sheetali Pranayama, also known as Cooling Breath, is a simple yet powerful breathing technique that helps cool the body, mind, and emotions. Originating from the Sanskrit word “sheet,” meaning cold, Sheetali Pranayama has a calming and soothing effect on the mind and body.
How does it work?
When you practice Sheetali Pranayama, you activate a natural evaporative cooling mechanism in the body. This helps dissipate excess heat, leaving you feeling cool and refreshed. Sheetali Pranayama also kindles the digestive fire, promoting optimal digestion—a win-win for your body!
Benefits of Sheetali Pranayama
– Balances excess pitta dosha
– Cools the body and clears excess heat
– Improves digestion and reduces acidity
– Soothes inflammatory skin conditions
– Calms inflammation throughout the body
– Promotes mental tranquillity and reduces stress
– Enhances the flow of prana (life force energy) in the body
– Boosts immunity and reduces fever
– Alleviates colicky pain and reduces blood pressure
How to Practice Sheetali Pranayama
1. Preparation: Find a comfortable sitting position and relax your entire body.
2. Breathing technique:
– If you can roll your tongue (Sheetali): Stick your tongue out and roll the sides upward to form a tube. Inhale slowly through the curled tongue.
– If you can’t roll your tongue (Sheetkari): Flatten your tongue and gently catch it between your teeth, allowing the breath to pass over the sides of the tongue and through the corners of the mouth.
3. Inhalation: Inhale deeply, filling your belly, ribs, and chest with cool air.
4. Retention: Hold your breath for a few moments at the top of the inhale, without any strain.
5. Exhalation: Slowly exhale through the nostrils.
6. Repeat: Continue for 7 to 15 rounds, gradually increasing as you become more comfortable with the practice.
7. Closing: Take one long, relaxed breath in and out through the nostrils to close your practice.
Precautions and contraindications
– Avoid practising Sheetali Pranayama if you have low blood pressure, respiratory disorders, chronic constipation, or heart disease.
– If you’re in an area with heavy environmental pollution, it’s best to avoid this practice.
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