Moorchha Pranayama (Entering a state of void) – Meaning, Procedure, Benefits, Precautions

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Moorchha pranayama is also called as swooning or fainting breath pranayama. It helps in emptying the mind and creating a sense of void. This pranayama strongly influences the pranic body. Learn the correct way to perform this pranayama below. Mention In Scriptures The following passage is from Hatha Pradipika, in which Swatmarama mentions about moorchha … Read more

Surya Bheda Pranayama – Awaken the Powerful Pingala Nadi and Inner Strength

Photo by Ivan Samkov: https://www.pexea-woman-doing-nostril-breathing

The word Surya in Sanskrit means ‘sun’. In yogic terms, this refers to the Pingala Nadi. Whereas, the Sanskrit word Bheda means ‘to pierce’ or ‘to awaken.’ Thus, the word Surya Bheda means to pierce through and purify the Pingala Nadi. This pranayama is very effective to increase vitality. Learn the correct method to perform … Read more

Sheetali Pranayama (Stay cool during summers) – Meaning, Procedure, Benefits, Precautions

Silhouette of Man Sitting on Grass Field at Daytime

Sheetali is a Sanskrit word derived from the root word sheet that means ‘cold.’ Also, the word Sheetal means something that is soothing, calm, and relaxing. The benefits of sheetali pranayama are many. Learn how to perform this correctly. Mention in Scriptures In Hatha Pradipika, Svātmārāma talks about this practice in the following verses, revealing … Read more

Sitkari Pranayama (hissing breath) – Meaning, Procedure, Benefits, Precautions

Sitkari Pranayam or Sheetkari pranayama is also called the hissing breath. While performing it the sound of “see” or “seet” is made during inhalation. Kari is a Sanskrit word that means “that which produces” [1]. Thus, this practice is named so because it produces the see sound. Sitkari pranayama has a strong effect on cooling … Read more

Bhastrika Pranayama – Procedure, Precautions, Warnings

In the previous article, we have talked about the benefits of Bhastrika Pranayama and its mention in the scripture. In this post, we will tackle the correct method to perform this practice. It is vital to first prepare the body before bhastrika pranayama can be performed exhaustively. Bhastrika is a strong practice and requires a … Read more

Bhastrika Pranayama – Meaning, Scriptural References, Benefits

In Sanskrit, the word Bhastrika means “bellows” (to emit a loud deep sound). Therefore, bhastrika pranayama is also called “bellows breath” as air is drawn forcefully in and out of the lungs making this deep loud sound. A blacksmith used a device called bellows to blow air into the furnace to increase the fire and … Read more

Kapalbhati Pranayama (Increase IQ) – Meaning, Procedure, Benefits, Precautions

Kapal Bhati

Kapalbhati belongs to one of the six shatkarma practices. In Sanskrit, the word Kapal means “cranium” or “forehead.” And the word Bhati means “light” and also “knowledge.” Therefore, kapalbhati pranayama is a practice that brings sharpness, illumination, and clarity to the prefrontal cortex region of the brain. Mention in Scriptures Translation: “Perform exhalation and inhalation … Read more

Bhramari Pranayama – Steps, Benefits, Side-effects & Nitrous Oxide

Bhramari Pranayama Image

The Sanskrit word Bhramari means “bee.” Therefore, Bhramari Pranayama is pranayama where the sounds produced while performing it are similar to one made by a black bee. It is amazing pranayama to relax the mind and improve sleep quality. Let’s learn about it in more depth. What is Bhramari Pranayama? (Mention in Scriptures) In Hatha … Read more

Gayatri Mantra – Meaning and Benefits for Serious Practitioners

Devi Savitr

The Gayatri Mantra is also known as Sāvitri Mantra. It is originally mentioned in Rig Veda (Mandala 3.62.10) in dedication to the Vedic sun deity Savitr. What is a mantra? The Sanskrit word mantra combines the verb root of “think” (man) with a term for “instrument” (tra). Thus, a mantra is a tool for controlling the mind. In Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra, … Read more