Understanding Anulom Vilom
Anulom vilom pranayama, also known as Alternate Nostril Breathing, is a yoga breathing technique that originated in ancient India. It’s a powerful practice that can help balance the breath, calm the mind, and prepare the body for meditation. You probably didn’t know this about anulom vilom, but its benefits go beyond strengthening the respiratory system and calming your mind. Anulom vilom pranayama enhances skin and hair vitality, improves cardiovascular health, helps manage symptoms of depression, improves eyesight and aids in digestion. It is one of the easiest techniques to prepare your mind for meditation and pump oxygen into your body. While this controlled breathing practice is highly beneficial, you should avoid it if you suffer from respiratory diseases and low blood pressure.
To practice Anulom Vilom pranayama:
1. Start by finding a comfortable spot and be seated in any position with your back straight.
2. Place your right hand in front of your face, with your thumb and pinky finger forming a “V” shape.
3. Close your right nostril with your thumb and inhale through your left nostril.
4. Close your left nostril with your pinky finger and exhale through your right nostril.
5. Inhale through your right nostril, close it with your thumb, and exhale through your left nostril.
6. Repeat the cycle for several rounds, focusing on your breath.
Learn how to harness the power of breathwork in this short session with Harmeet Kotak on SoulSensei.
Common Myths About Anulom Vilom
While anulom vilom pranayama is one of the oldest breathwork practices, it is easy to have misconceptions about it, especially if you’re a beginner. So, below, we’ve busted some common myths to help you practise this technique safely and effortlessly.
- Myth: Anulom Vilom is only for advanced yogis.
Fact: With the right guidance and understanding, anyone can practice anulom vilom, regardless of their yoga experience.
- Myth: Anulom Vilom can cure all diseases.
Fact: Although it is not a universal cure, when practiced alongside medication and other therapies, it can be highly beneficial.
- Myth: Anulom Vilom should be practiced only during sunrise.
Fact: Anulom vilom pranayama can be practised at any time of the day, but it’s recommended to avoid practising during extreme weather conditions.
- Myth: Anulom Vilom is a complicated technique.
Fact: Anulom vilom is a simple technique that involves alternating the breath between the two nostrils.
- Myth: Anulom Vilom can be practiced with the mouth open.
Fact: Anulom vilom should be practised with the mouth closed, using only the nostrils for breathing.
- Myth: Anulom Vilom is only beneficial for the respiratory system.
Fact: Anulom vilom has numerous benefits, including balancing the nervous system, calming the mind, and preparing the body for meditation. The anulom vilom meditation is one of the most calming practices.
- Myth: Anulom Vilom requires hours of practice.
Fact: Anulom vilom can be practised for a few minutes to start, and gradually increased as you become more comfortable with the technique.
- Myth: Anulom Vilom is not suitable for children.
Fact: Children and adults of any age can practice anulom vilom under the guidance of a qualified yoga instructor.
- Myth: Anulom Vilom can be practised during menstruation.
Fact: It’s recommended to avoid practising anulom vilom during menstruation, as it can affect the menstrual cycle.
- Myth: Anulom Vilom is a replacement for medical treatment.
Fact: Anulom vilom is a complementary practice that can be used in conjunction with medical treatment, but it’s not a replacement for medical care.
Conclusion
Anulom vilom pranayama is a powerful yoga technique that has been shrouded in mystery and misconception. By examining and debunking some common myths surrounding this practice, we have shed light on the truth about anulom vilom. The best part about this technique is it is accessible to practitioners of all levels. It also offers a wide range of benefits, from balancing the breath and calming the mind to preparing the body for meditation. It is essential to approach anulom vilom with a critical and nuanced understanding, recognising both its benefits and limitations. By doing so, we can harness the full potential of this technique to enhance our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Moreover, by dispelling common myths and misconceptions, we can promote a more informed and responsible approach to yoga practice. Learn more about yogic breathing techniques from experts on SoulSensei.
