Pranayama is the practice of regulating one's breath. You inhale, exhale, and hold your breath in a precise order. The idea is to connect the body and mind, improving physical, mental and emotional well-being.
There is a correct breathing technique in yoga; one must practice synchronising physical postures (or asanas) with breathing movements. Pranayama improves mental clarity and lung capacity, decreases stress and anxiety, and boosts willpower and overall health.
Decreases stress When practised regularly, pranayama can assist in reducing stress. Studies have shown that pranayama practice could dramatically reduce stress and improve psychological quality of life.
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Improves sleep quality Pranayama, a deep breathing exercise that requires you to focus on your breath and promotes deep relaxation, may help you regulate your sleep. This may be very effective for insomnia.
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Increases lung capacity Regular practice of pranayama has a direct impact on the lungs. It promotes chest wall expansion and strengthens respiratory muscles. Pranayamas, such as kapalbhati and bhastrika, allow respiratory muscles to rapidly expand and contract, improving lung function.
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Improves concentration Slow down and pay attention to your breathing. During pranayama, you need to be aware of your breathing and how it feels. This is thought to synchronise the mind and respiration, allowing for better concentration. Pranayama is one of the best yoga exercises for improving attention and memory.
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Reduces high blood pressure High blood pressure or hypertension, occurs when your blood pressure rises to an unhealthy level. It raises the chance of some potentially major health issues, such as heart disease and stroke.
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Pranayama is an ancient Indian yogic practice of controlling your breath in different ways to connect your mind and body. Stress is a major risk factor for hypertension. Pranayama may help to reduce this risk.