Pratiloma Ujjayi - Practice

Practice

Ujjayi is practiced with both nostrils open, when one is blocked breathe normally, the restriction of flow is enough with a closed nostril without adding Ujjayi.

1. Breathe in through both nostrils*.
2. Close right nostril with right thumb, breathe out through left nostril.
3. Keeping the right nostril closed, breathe in through the left nostril.
4. Release thumb, breathe out through both nostrils*.
5. Breathe in through both nostrils*.
6. Close left nostril with ring finger, breathe out through right nostril.
7. Keeping the left nostril closed, breathe in through the right nostril.
8. Release ring finger, breathe out through both nostrils*.

The use of Ujjayi is denoted by*.

1–8 constitutes one round and the practitioner should allow the length of the breath to be natural and not forced in any way. The number of rounds and the length of the breath should be kept simple and within one's own capabilities; count the breath length at rest and stick to that at the beginning and start with four rounds building up to twelve. Like all techniques, mastery comes with time and practice.

Pratiloma is described as going against the flow and will affect the body; care should be taken. Those with breathing issues such as asthma should seek medical advice and the guidance of a qualified teacher.