Preksha Dhyana Perception of Breathing

Author(s): Mahapragna Acharya
Publisher: Jain Vishva Bharati

Page 42

In this exercise, the alternation of the nostril is done initially with the use of the fingers and subsequently by the exercise of will power.
Exercise :
1. Place your right thumb against your right nostril and your ring finger against your left. Let your middle and index fingers touch your forehead lightly.
2. Decide upon a suitable rhythm of exhalation and inhalation (say 6 and 4 seconds) and maintain it throughout the exercise.
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3. Close your right nostril with your thumb, inhale slowly and silently through your left nostril for 4 seconds. At the end of the inhalation, close the left nostril, release your right nostril and exhale slowly through it for 6 seconds.
4. At the end of the exhalation and without pausing begin to inhale through the right nostril (the same one which was used for exhalation). Inhale slowly for 4 seconds.
5. Now close the right nostril and release the left one and exhale slowly through the left nosril for 6 seconds. Complete the exhalation. This completes the first round, as the original starting point is reached.
6. Without interruption, repeat and perform the exercise of several rounds. Each inhalation & exhalation is as silent as possible. Try to maintain a rhythm without actually counting. Remember that the use of fingers is temporary and ultimately you have to use your will-power to alternate (the nostrils).
Throughout the exercise, your consciousness must be coupled with your breath i.e. your attention will go inside with inhalation and come out with exhalation. It should not leave the breath and wander away.
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