Pranayama (Breathing Practice) (Pranayama)
Medically Reviewed by Ayuveda Clinical Team (Lead Medical Reviewer: Dr. Nitin Mohite, BAMS, MBA • Medical Logic Developer, UK • Clinical Profile • LinkedIn).
Sit comfortably and practice a simple, even breath for a few minutes.
When to practise
Morning after basic cleansing, or when you need to reset.
Beginner shortcut
Five minutes of comfortable nasal breathing.
Where it fits in your routine
- abhyanga
- pranayama
What you need
- Quiet seat
How to practise
- 1. Sit steadily: Sit upright with a relaxed belly and shoulders.
- 2. Breathe through the nose: Inhale and exhale smoothly without strain.
- 3. Keep a short session: Practice 3–10 minutes; stop if dizzy or uncomfortable.
Benefits
- Supports calm focus
- Fits morning or reset moments
- Complements movement practice
Cautions
- Stop if you feel dizzy or short of breath
- Seek guidance for advanced techniques
- Adapt or skip when acutely ill
Common mistakes
- Forcing the breath
Dosha notes
- vata: Slow, grounding breath.
- kapha: Slightly more energizing morning sessions when well.
- pitta: Cooling, non-forcing pace.
Seasonal notes
Keep sessions gentle in heat or illness.
Frequently asked questions
Which technique should beginners use?
Start with simple comfortable nasal breathing before learning specialized pranayama from a qualified teacher.
Classical & Scientific References
- Charaka Samhita (Sutra Sthana & Chikitsa Sthana) — Classical Ayurvedic internal medicine compendium.
- Sushruta Samhita (Sharira Sthana & Uttara Tantra) — Surgical and foundational therapeutic treatise.
- Ashtanga Hridaya (Vagbhata) — Core clinical principles and therapeutic pharmacology.
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API) & Ayurvedic Formulary of India (AFI), Ministry of AYUSH.