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where reduced or slow breathing, often less than five breaths per minute, is practised.
The hyperventilating techniques come under the classification of vitalizing pranayamas. The rapid and deep breathing increases the alveolar ventilation and stimulates the blood flow in the top of the lungs and those areas where blood circulation is sluggish and even dormant. They have a stimulating effect on the whole body due to the rapid muscular movement and increased metabolic rate induced in all parts of the body. These techniques exercise the lungs and abdomen, and stimulate the nervous system to balance and strengthen itself. They also have a purifying and heating effect on the body and mind.
Hypoventilating techniques are slow and subtle, stretching the capacity of respiration at the other end of the spectrum. They are generally tranquillizing pranayamas, and their effect is more or less opposite to hyperventilation. These techniques reduce the metabolic rate as well as the frequency of brain waves, leading to relaxed meditative states. Thus, one experiences a greater sense of control over the nervous system. Carbon dioxide levels may be slightly increased by these practices, although the oxygen levels remain normal
The conscious altering of the rate of inhalation and exhalation brings about an improved control of all the above processes. There is a more conscious and efficient absorption of oxygen and elimination of carbon dioxide, as well as improved mental and emotional states. The control of pooraka and rechaka is a preliminary stage in pranayama, designed to improve overall health and vitality, and to prepare the practitioner for later stages. Good health, efficient respiratory function and increased vitality are foundations for the more advanced practices of pranayama, which involve kumbhaka.
What is kumbhaka? The word kumbha means 'vessel', and thus implies holding or retaining something. In pranayama, this term describes the retention of breath. Kumbhaka can be performed after
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