Beat the Heat with These Three Pranayamas This Summer
When the mercury soars, our bodies tend to suffer from the extreme heat. Summer can be especially harsh, making us feel parched, dehydrated, and tired. While there are many ways to beat the heat, yoga has a natural and effective remedy. Pranayama, or the ancient yogic art of breath control, can be an effective ally in keeping our bodily balance intact when the summer temperatures soar. Here, we're going to examine three pranayamas that can keep you cool and calm even in the hottest of weathers.
1. Sheetali Pranayama: The Cooling Breath
Sheetali Pranayama, or the "cooling breath," is a powerful yet easy-to-learn technique that can assist in bringing down your body temperature. To do this pranayama, roll your tongue into a tube shape and breathe in slowly through your mouth, sensing the cool air gliding over your tongue. Close your mouth and slowly breathe out through your nose. This pranayama relaxes your nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety and cooling the body internally.
2. Sheetkari Pranayama: The Hissing Breath
Sheetkari Pranayama, or "hissing breath," is also an excellent pranayama to practice on hot summer afternoons. To do this technique, touch the tip of your tongue behind your top teeth and breathe in slowly through your mouth, creating a hissing sound. Then, close your mouth and breathe out slowly through your nose. This pranayama is beneficial in calming your mind and body, decreasing feelings of frustration and irritability that come with the heat of the summer season.
3. Bhastrika Pranayama: The Bellows Breath
Bhastrika Pranayama, or the "bellows breath," is a more energetic pranayama that may be used to stimulate your digestive system and increase your energy levels. To do this exercise, sit up straight and comfortably and start to breathe quickly through your nose, noticing your belly expanding and contracting with each breath. Then, abruptly stop and hold your breath for a few seconds. This pranayama assists in enhancing oxygenation of your body, diminishing fatigue and sluggishness that usually tag along with the summer season.
Stay Cool and Calm with Pranayama
Adding these three pranayamas to your daily life can make a huge difference to your overall health during the summer season. Through the practice of Sheetali, Sheetkari, and Bhastrika Pranayama, you can ensure your body temperature regulation, soothe your mind and body, and enhance your energy levels. So, spare a few minutes every day to sit in a relaxed posture, breathe slowly, and allow the soothing effects of these pranayamas to take effect. Regular practice will prepare you to meet the summer season's challenges with calmness, composure, and confidence.