ALTERNATE BREATHING TECHNIQUE
1. Sit in an erect posture and close the eyelids. Put your concentration
on the point between the eyebrows.
2. Exhale, then close the right nostril with the right thumb and
inhale slowly and smoothly through the left nostril. Hold, then
release the right nostril and place the ring and little finger
of the the same hand on the left nostril and exhale through the
right nostril.
3. Hold the breath out a moment.
4. Keeping the right hand in place, inhale through the right nostril,
then close the right nostril with the thumb and lift the two little
fingers and exhale through the left nostril through the left nostril.
5. Repeat the whole exercise three times.
Comments: The spine should be held straight and the body relaxed
throughout the whole breathing exercise. Inhalation and exhalation
should be executed in a slow, controlled manner without any strain.
As one inhales and exhales it will be more effective if the throat
muscles are very slightly constricted and the breathing concentrated
in this area. Remember that the finger positions are changed after
the air has been inhaled.
VARIATIONS: The length of the inhalation, hold, and exhalation
may be varied, but stick to one pattern throughout one complete
practice session. 8-8-8 2-8-4 4-16-8
Inhale Hold Exhale Inhale Hold Exhale Inhale Hold Exhale
BENEFITS: Positive and negative currents of energy in the
spine are brought into a powerful equilibrium. Increases mental
functioning and contributes to alertness as the inflowing breath
cools and refreshes the brain area. Cleanses and strengthens tissues
in the nostrils, air passages and lungs. This breathing technique
has a great calming effect on the nervous system and one's whole
being.
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