It is established that anxiety first begins in the mind and acting on our negative thoughts and fears, causes depression. We have never seen or touched the mind but yet it is felt so strongly. That is what drives us. It is the biggest mystery in the world, and controlling it is the biggest challenge.
Over the years many yoga practitioners have dedicated their lives in finding an answer to this mystery and it has been found that our breathing has a large role to play in controlling the mind. The simplest way to understand this is to keep observing your breathing as various emotions go through your mind.
When you are angry your breathing is elevated and usually faster. When you are calm your breathing is slow, long and relaxed. The best way to calm your mind is to breathe slowly and deeply and let your mind unwind and relax. In this series, let us learn one of the best breathing techniques to relax an anxious mind and gain control over it.
ANULOM VILOM PRANAYAMA
Procedure
1. Sit in any meditative posture
2. Fold the forefinger and middle finger of your right hand
3. Place your ring finger in the centre of your eyebrows, and press your thumb on the right nostril
4. Inhale through the left nostril
5. Hold your breath
6. Reverse positions now by placing your thumb between your eyebrows, and press the left nostril with your ring finger
7. Exhale through the right nostril
8. Now inhale through your right nostril and hold
9. Reverse the position of your fingers and exhale through the left
10. Repeat this cycle 15-20 times every day.
Benefits
1. Reduces stress as it cleanses the nadis or the cells and energy channels in the body.
2. Calms the mind, de-cluttering it of thoughts.
3. Reduces anxiety and depression.
4. Rejuvenates the cells, keeping the body young.
This pranayama can be practised by all.
