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Three rounds of 10 abdominal contractions and expansions is sufficient at first. With regular practice, up to 50 abdominal movements may be performed with each round. The time of breath retention should be gradually
increased over a period of time. Sequence: Practise after asanas and before pranayama.
Agnisara kriya should be practised on an empty stomach, preferably in the early morning before breakfast, and
ideally after the bowels have been emptied. Precautions: During summer months, this practice should be
performed with care as it may raise the body heat and blood pressure excessively. During this period, it should always be followed by a cooling pranayama such as
sheetkari or sheetali. Contra-indications: People suffering from high blood
pressure, heart disease, acute duodenal or peptic ulcers, overactive thyroid gland or chronic diarrhoea should not perform this kriya. Pregnant women should refrain from
this practice. Benefits: Agnisara kriya stimulates the appetite and improves
the digestion. It massages the abdomen, strengthens the abdominal muscles and encourages optimum health of the abdominal organs. It also stimulates the five pranas, especially samana, and raises the energy levels markedly. It alleviates depression, dullness and lethargy.
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