Ayurveda is a holistic method of medicine that has been helping people for over 5000 years. With that being said, there are many interesting facts surrounding Ayurveda that people are still unaware of. Did you know that there are many breathing practices you can adopt to relieve stress in your everyday life? We examine Ayurveda breathing practices for beginners, as well as give a brief history on the topic for those who are new to the Ayurveda practice!

Ayurveda rundown

While Ayurveda is known to be one of the oldest complete systems of medicine in the world, many are still only discovering it’s benefits today. With many principles to the system, it can sometimes be confusing or difficult to fully understand. In short, Ayurveda is a holistic method of treatment based upon five primary elements (space, air, fire, water & earth). Two of the elements are then combined to form what are known as ‘doshas’. For example, space and air combined is vatadosha. Each person has three doshas, with one being most prominent. By evaluating each dosha, you are able to understand one’s health challenges. Then you can proceed to deal with the problem. 

Ayurveda encourages incorporating these breathing practices into your routine to restore balance. It’s important to keep in mind that with each person having a more dominant dosha, that there are specified breathing practices for the dosha you most identify. You can find out what your most prominent dosha is with the help of AyurClinic’s medical professionals.

There are many medical professionals who practice Ayurveda in Melbourne currently. They can assist you in any area of Ayurveda that you would be interested in!

Take a deep breath in…

If you feel like the stress of everyday life is taking over and need a way to cope, you can test out some of these simple breathing techniques.

1. Nadi Shodhana Breathing

While this alternate method of nostril breathing is best suited for those with a dominant vatadosha, it can be helpful for anyone looking to reduce stress. This type of breathing works to release physical tension, reduce stress and clear your mind. You begin in a comfortable, seated position and place a thumb over your left nostril, inhaling through the right nostril. Next, exhale through the left nostril, while holding your right nostril. This method is said to help unite the right and left hemispheres of the brain.

2. Sitali Breathing

This breathing technique is said to be ideal for those who embody the pittadosha. This type of breathing is excellent if you’re feeling irritated or angry. Sit comfortably with your hands on your lap, facing upwards. With your eyes closed and lips sealed, breathe in deeply, running the tip of your tongue to the roof of your mouth lightly. Then exhale through the nose, allowing your tongue to return from the roof your mouth, back to a natural position. Continue this calming rhythm for a few minutes or until you feel like you’re in a relaxed state.

3. Sohum Meditation

This method of breathing resembles that of an ocean wave. Start by sitting and placing one hand gently on your stomach. Breathe in through your nose deeply, breathing from your diaphragm and not your chest. Exhale slowly and make sure to pause for a few seconds in between each inhale and exhale. Completing a few rounds of this method will release tension and stress from the body and mind. It can be helpful to use this technique before any stressful event.

4. Bhastrika Breathing 

Khapadosha’s are best suited for this technique that stimulates excess khapa. Breathing in this way will also help to alleviate any congestion you may be experiencing and should be done on an empty stomach. Begin seated with your hands resting on your lap. With your eyes closed and facial muscles relaxed, breathe in through your nose deeply, while you feel your ribs open. Then allow yourself to exhale fully and continue the process for up to 20 seconds. Return to your regular breathing pattern afterwards.

5. Sama Vritti Breathing

This breathing technique places it’s main focus on breathing ‘equally’. Begin by inhaling for a count of four, then exhale for another count of four. Remember to breathe in through your nose and try to increase the count to six or eight seconds as you progress with this practice. This method can help you fall asleep, regain concentration or de-stress.

By putting these Ayurvedic breathing techniques into practice on a regular basis, you will be able to lower stress and get to a more peaceful state.

If you’re interested in Ayurveda in Melbourne, AyurClinic has a variety of treatments that will help you achieve a healthier you. Our experienced and licensed practitioners have dealt with a range of patients and their individual patients, getting them to where they want to be. Contact us today to get started with an initial consultation!