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extended, the breath slows down. The respiration becomes more efficient because the air flow is smoother and less turbulent. This ratio helps people with respiratory problems such as asthma, emphysema and bronchitis. The ratio 1:2 in stage 2 gives profound relaxation. The heartbeat and pulse rate slow down, and blood pressure
drops.
Intermediate level At this stage, internal kumbhaka is introduced. Kumbhaka is the aim of pranayama, as it activates the spiritual energy. Mastery of each stage requires conditioning the body and mind to longer periods of retention over a period of time. The brain becomes trained not to signal for inhalation or exhalation during slight rises in levels of carbon dioxide in the blood. Bandhas are also introduced, which lock the shakti or energy internally, preventing it from being dissipated in the body and mind, and directing it into the sushumna passage.
Technique 3: with antar kumbhaka (inner retention) In this technique antar kumbhaka or internal breath retention is introduced. The inhalation and exhalation should be silent, smooth and controlled. Stage 1: Begin breathing with equal inhalation, inner
retention and exhalation. Close the right nostril and inhale slowly through the left nostril for a count of 5. At the end of inhalation, close both nostrils and retain the air in the lungs for a count of 5. Open the right nostril and exhale for a count of 5. At the end of exhalation, inhale through the right nostril for a count of 5, keeping the left nostril closed. Again, retain the breath for a count of 5 with both nostrils closed. Open the left nostril and exhale for a count of 5. This is one round using the ratio 5:5:5.
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