How to implement pranayama in daily life?

Pranayama is the art or yogic breathing or breathing control and is the heart of yogic exercises. The yogis and Buddhists have always claimed that Pranayama or breathing control can help us to focus on our tasks. 

Pranayama is said to cleanse 72,000 nadis or channels in the body. It helps purify the blood and the respiratory system. The deeper breathing enriches the blood with oxygen. Hence it is good to practice it in day to day life. 

I would recommend Nadi shodhana to begin with. 

• Nadi Shodhana – This can be done either sitting or while lying down. Exhale deeply and empty the air from lungs. Close your right nostril with thumb and inhale through the left nostril. Try to inhale deeply and feel the breath up to the belly. Once you are full of breath, seal your left nostril with the ring finger of the same hand, keeping your right nostril closed, and hold the breath for a moment. Then release your thumb and exhale through your right nostril only. Pause before inhaling through the same side. A complete cycle of breath includes an inhalation and exhalation through both nostrils. Begin with a four-count inhalation and then when you have enugh practice gradually increase the count. 

The more you practice, the longer you’ll be able to perform the exercises, and eventually, you’ll be able to use more of your lung capacity. Practice and patience are the two important factors you need to do Pranayama. 

Positive effects of Pranayama on health 

It is recommended to do pranayama early in the morning, one to two hours before sunrise when oxygen content is maximum in the air. Also, early morning body is fresh, and mind is clear from any thought processes. An empty stomach is ideal for pranayama.

When done daily Pranayama can have immense positive effects on your health. 

• Reduces stress and anxiety

• Muscle relaxation

• Stabilizes blood pressure

• Improves sleep patterns

• Supports the circulatory system and nervous system