Nadi (energy channel) shodhana (purification) pranayama is the practice of alternate breathing. We use right hand’s thumb to close and open the right nose drill and the ring finger to close and open the left nose drill. When you hold your breath, you can keep t the nose drill through which you inhaled - closed.

NOTE: pranayamas with holds (especially after exhalation) are unsuitable during pregnancy.

This pranayama practise combines some gentle movement and sama vritti (equal fluctuation) and puraka rechaka kumbhaka (inhalation, exhalation, hold) pranayama.

NOTE: the second pranayama is not suitable during pregnancy due to holds.

Kapala Bhati is translated as “skull shining”. This pranayam is great for clearing the sinuses, improving digestion, and invigorating the organs of the abdominal cavity.

Contraindications: high and low blood pressure, heart issues, hernia, gastric ulcer, epilepsy, vertigo, migraine headaches, significant nosebleeds, detached retina, glaucoma, history of stroke, and for anyone who has undergone recent abdominal surgery.

On the days when you need to calm down, get grounded, and let go - do this pranayama practice. Puraka Kumbhaka is retention after inhalation, while the calming breath is amazing for elongating your exhalations.

What is Pranayama or Expansion of vital energy?

Practice sun salutations with a metronome. Watch previous video “Introduction to Pranayama” and integrate that into asana practice.