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Ujjayi Pranayama *(divided as Ut + Jayi) is also referred to as Ocean Sounding or Victorious breath. In kids classes it is also – rather irreverentially called Darth Vader breath. The practitioner makes a soft hissing sound or a gentle snore that is one of the most important breathing techniques in Yoga.
In this type of Pranayama, while inhaling, due to the friction of air in the throat, a typical sound is created, one that is different from the sound produced by the larynx Hence, the name Ujjayi Pranayama. Techniques of Ujjayi Pranayama
- Start by inhaling – long, slow, deep breaths through both your nostrils.
- Your breath should be gentle and relaxed as you slightly contract the back of your throat. You then make a steady hissing sound as you inhale the sound generated should be low and pleasing to the ear. There should be no fluctuations in the sound. Also, it should emerge from the upper part of your throat and not from the upper or front part of your nose Because of the resistance of air in your throat, you will find this sound automatically being created.
- Stretch your inhale and the exhale as much as you can without generating tension anywhere in your body, and let the sound of the breath be smooth and unbroken.
Benefits of Ujjayi Pranayama The practice of Ujjayi Pranayama raises body heat, the sound vibrations calm and focus the mind, letting you relax more. Ujjayi can also be used to lower blood pressure and slow heart rate. Alternatively, it can also be used to raise the blood pressure and heart rate. This, again, depends on whether you are practising the Ashtanga style of forceful Ujjayi or the meditative style of slow and soft Ujjayi. Ujjayi can also be effectively used for pain reduction, insomnia, and migraines.
However, the most remarkable benefit Ujjayi Pranayama has to offer is that it performs internal purification, activation and energizing along with outer control and conditioning all at once. Ujjayi Pranayama cures heat in the head as well as and lung diseases like asthma, tuberculosis. It also improves digestive capacity and enhances functioning of the respiratory systems.
Ujjayi is most effective for asthmatics as it corrects and strengthens the condition of the lungs and bronchiole linings. Points to remember when doing Ujjayi Pranayama - See that the air touches your throat.
- After practising it for few days, know your limits, keep your breathing ratio to inhalation and exhalation 1:2.
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