Ujjayi pranayama contra-indications and benefits

Ujjayi Pranayama and benefits

The word Ujjayi means to be victorious, therefore the literal translation of this is the Victorious Breath. It is also very popularly known as the ocean’s breath. This is known as the pranayama that gives one freedom from the confinements of the mind and helps one transcend into higher realms.

The practice of Ujjayi breath makes one feel powerful and strong. The Ujjayi pranayama is practiced in Ashtanga and Vinyasa styes of Yoga. By incorporating this style of breathing during asana practice helps to generate heat in the body and helps release toxins which increases blood circulation.

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How to practice Ujjayi breath

Start by sitting in a simple cross-legged position and make sure to keep the spine upright. Now place your palms on your knees or place them in Bhairava mudra, palms placed on top of each other.
Close your eyes and allow your body to relax and let your awareness and focus be on the breath.
Now take the awareness to the throat and take a couple of breaths. Now contract the glottis and put slight pressure in the throat region as you inhale and exhale the breath.
As you do this you will begin to hear a soft snoring sound, it will feel like you’re putting slight constriction in the throat area.
This sound should be audible to you only.
Perform 8-10 rounds to begin with and gradually with practice you can build your practice to 3 – 4 mins.

Contra-Indications of ujjayi pranayama

The contra-indications are anyone with low blood pressure must avoid this practice.
Women during pregnancy should avoid this practice.

Ujjayi pranayama benefits

This exercise helps increase focus and concentration.
It helps a yoga practitioner grow spiritually by bringing one-pointedness of the mind.
It is very effective for anyone suffering from thyroid as it simulates and activates the thyroid gland.
Ujjayi breathing help increase blood circulation within the body, therefore improves overall functioning of the body and mind.
This also removes blockages from the throat chakra.

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