Anulom Vilom Pranayam, also called as Alternate Nostril Breathing or Nadi Shodhana Pranayam, is an ancient yogic technique that involves controlling the vital force or Prana and balance their flow through specific channels called Ida and Pingala Nadis. The Nadis are metaphorical expressions of the body’s energy channels that make us conscious and whole. When there is a free flow of energy through these Nadis, we are vital and healthy, and when there is an obstruction in the path, we will experience poor mental and physical health. With the regular practice of Anulom Vilom Pranayam, we can strengthen the flow of Prana through every cell of our body and stay on the path to spiritual growth.
Anulom Vilom Pranayam promotes a balanced mind and heals the body from within by eliminating free radicals and toxins. In addition to being practised as a form of meditation to attain mental peace, control and tranquillity, researches have shown that it is beneficial in the management of diseases arising from lifestyle choices and stress.
Here are some of the Anulom Vilom benefits that regular practice can bring:
The word ‘Anulom’ means with the grain, while ‘Vilom’ means against the grain. The Pranayam is done by taking deep breaths from one nostril while blocking the other and alternating the process between the left and right nostril.
A step by step guide to perform Anulom Vilom Pranayam is mentioned below.
It’s suggested that the anulom vilom pranayama be done at least sixty times, which should be divided through the day. This yoga pose is perfect for all ages, and is an excellent technique for balancing your chakras, healing, and reducing/eliminating any breathing/respiratory problems. Once you start practicing this yoga pose regularly, it will speed up the recovery process; especially for patients who have recently undergone surgery.
You can practice the anulom vilom pranayam steps once you are done with your meals. Start the anulom vilom procedure with the stronger nostril, exhale deep and long. Ensure that your posture is straight and relaxed.
The anulom vilom pranayama breathing exercise is quite simple, and when practiced regularly it can balance the body’s Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas. Many ailments occur when these doshas are imbalanced. Following the anulom vilom process is considered as the easiest and the most effective way to stay fit and healthy.
The best time to practice the anulom vilom pranayam steps is early in the morning, before breakfast. This breathing technique helps balance your breathing pattern and energizes you. You can practice the anulom vilom pranayam in the evening as well, but you must do it four hours after you’ve eaten.
The best place to practice this breathing technique is in a cool and comfortable environment. Throughout the anulom vilom process, you must be conscious of your breathing and how it is affecting your physical and mental peace.
Once you are in the anulom vilom pose, you start noticing your breathing rhythm. Once you try the breathing techniques for the first time, it may feel a little strange, so you can do it for as long as you’re comfortable. Don’t push yourself in the beginning, you will get better the more you practice it.
It’s crucial that you feel in control and relaxed when you take on this anulom vilom procedure. Increase the duration at your pace. It also helps when a trained yogi instructs you through the procedure and helps you implement the proper technique.
Once you get comfortable with anulom vilom, you will notice numerous health benefits like increased focus, patience, and control, along with an improvement in brain, respiratory, and cardiovascular health.
Anulom Vilom Pranayam is an ancient practice which is known for its ability to promote a wide range of physical and mental health benefits. What happens when we do Anulom Vilom is we develop better patience, focus, self-control, respiratory and cardiovascular health and overall sense of well-being.
Anulom Vilom is entirely safe to practice for most people, but it is recommended to consult a doctor if you have chronic respiratory or cardiovascular problems. Although the Pranayam brings several health benefits to the mind and body, it is not a substitute for medical treatment.
At Govardhan EcoVillage, we help our patrons to learn and practice Yoga and Pranayam techniques under the supervision of experienced and qualified Yoga Gurus along with Ayurvedic treatment procedures to help them achieve holistic health. Find a certified Yoga course at Govardhan EcoVillage to develop a calm state of mind and take control of your life and inner well-being.