21 June
Yoga Day » Sheetkari Pranayama

Sheetkari Pranayama

Sheetkari Pranayama

Sheetkari Pranayama is very similar to the Sheetali pranayama and both are practiced specially during the summer months to provide a cooling effect on the body and the mind. Though the end objective of both the pranayama is same, the basic difference lies in the process by which both the pranayama are practiced. Unlike the Sheetali Pranayama, the use of teeth is prominent is the Sheetkari pranayama. This pranayama derives its name from the hissing sound produced by the clenched teeth which is quite similar to that of a python’s breathing.

Benefits of Sheetkari pranayama
  • Practicing this pranayama daily helps to improve memory and intelligence
  • Sheetkari pranayama helps to purify blood and refreshes the body
  • It is highly beneficial for people who lack energy and tend to feel tired during the day.
  • It helps to reduces excess heat from the body and helps in controlling negative emotions like anger and anguish
  • It provides brightness to the skin
  • It provides an immunity boost to the body and helps it to fight diseases like common cold or flu.
  • Practicing this pranayama can also provide relief from ailments related to reproductive organs and all the endocrine system
How to practise Sheetkari Pranayama
  • Sit up in a comfortable position, with the hands and legs folded comfortably
  • Try to observe the flow of the breath and center your focus on a particular area.
  • In the next step. Open your lips and bring the teeth together
  • Use the gap in between your teeth’s to take a long deep breath
  • Once you are done with the process of inhalation, bring your chest downwards and try to retain the breath for 6- 7 seconds or as long as you feel comfortable
  • When you feel comfortable, lift your chin and use your right nostril to exhale the air, keeping your left nostril closed with the thumb
  • Repeat the process at least five times every day if you are starting as a beginner.
Precaution
  • This pranayama should only be practiced during the summer months, in a place which is not polluted.
  • Do not perform this pranayama, if you have heart problems or a low BP
  • Avoid Sheetkari pranayama, if you are patient of respiratory diseases- asthma and bronchitis
  • This pranayama can lead to irregular bowel movements, so if you have problems related to chronic constipation, avoid practicing this pranayama.
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