Pran and Pranayam

SR No.: 009371
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Niranjananand Saraswati Swami
Publisher: Yoga Publication Trust
Publication Year: 2009
Total Pages: 369
Language: Hindi
Classification: Book_Devnagari
File Size: 11 MB

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minimize external movement and avoid disruption of the pranayama mudra such as nasagra.
Precaution: Although the neck lock reduces blood pressure, long retention of the breath strains the heart. Refrain from the practice if any vertigo or dizziness arises. Contra-indications: People suffering from cervical spondylosis, high intracranial pressure, vertigo, high blood pressure or heart disease should not practise jalandhara bandha. Benefits: The full form of jalandhara bandha compresses the carotid sinuses, which are located on the carotid arteries, the main arteries in the neck. The simple variation exerts a subtler pressure. These sinuses help to regulate the circulatory and respiratory systems. Normally, a decrease in oxygen and increase in carbon dioxide in the body leads to an increased heart rate and heavier breathing. This process is initiated by the carotid sinuses. By exerting pressure on these sinuses, this tendency is prevented, allowing for decreased heart rate and increased breath retention. This practice produces mental relaxation, relieving stress, anxiety and anger. It develops meditative introversion and one-pointedness. The stimulus on the throat helps to balance thyroid function and regulate the metabolism.
Uddiyana Bandha (abdominal lock)
Sit in a meditation pose which enables the knees to touch the ground.
Place the palms of the hands flat on the knees. Close the eyes and relax the whole body.
Inhale deeply through the nostrils, then exhale fully, accentuating the contraction of the abdominal muscles and emptying the lungs as much as possible.
Hold the breath out and perform jalandhara bandha. Contract the abdominal muscles inward and upward, making the abdomen concave.
Hold this locked body position for as long as the breath can be comfortably retained outside. Then release uddiyana followed by jalandhara and raise the head fully before inhaling.
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