Teeth Hissing – Sitkari

Sitkari refers to the sound made by drawing in air, a kind of reversed hissing, like that made when suddenly touching ice or a hot object.



The sound is produced while inhaling through the front teeth-either tightly closed or slightly ajar and should be regulated so as to be smooth and sound pleasant.

Technique

1.



Sit in sukhasana or any other comfortable meditative posture.

2.



Clench your teeth, fold your tongue backwards and press the folded tip to the teeth.

3. Inhale through your clenched teeth making a hissing sound, and feel the coolness of the breath penetrate your entire system.

4. Exhale through your nostrils, mouth tightly shut.

5. Repeat the process all over again.

6. Start with 3 rounds then go up to 5, then 10 rounds.

Sitkari cools not just the mouth, it has a cooling and a relaxing effect on the whole body and mind as well. This pranayama is especially beneficial in mouth ulcers and hyperacidity, helps control thirst, hunger and laziness. It soothes the nervous system and is excellent on a hot day as it eliminates heat and thirst. In addition, Sitkari is known to purify the blood as well.