Pranayama is the practice of controlled breathing. In his book, PRANAYAMA: The Art of Breathing in Meditation and Zen, Dr. K.S Joshi wrote, “Pranayama is the fourth part of the eight-fold Yoga described in the Yogasutra - the most authoritative book on yoga written as per experts of the field."
The eight limbs of yoga mentioned in it are: Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana, and Samadhi.
Among one of the most powerful of Pranayama is The Brahmari Pranayama which imitates the sound of a humming bee during it’s exhaling phase. In doing so, it channelizes breathing through a vibrating state through the air passageway. The Brahmari Pranayama is the most effective of all the Pranayamas chalked out for migraineurs.
BENEFITS:
• The Brahmari has a positive effect on post-delivery and menstrual migraines through higher serotonin release pre-menstruation
• It is extremely useful for Alzheimer's patients and those with heart conditions
• The Brahmari also balances blood sugar and hormone secretion
• It’s practice increases the rate of metabolism and calms the mind
• It is proven to improve memory and concentration
METHOD:
1. Sit on a mat on an even floor (preferably in Vajra Asana or Sukha Asana).
2. Close your glottis partially as you inhale through both nostrils, making a snoring sound.
3. Exhale slowly emitting the buzzing sound of a humming bee.
4. Humming while exhaling allows you to spin out your breath and make a longer exhalation.
5. Repeat the process 5 – 10 times.
It will be good to learn more about the The Art of Living Foundation’s Basic Courses where the qualified and certified instructors teach you how to do the different Pranayama with precision. The Foundation’s chapters have presence in almost all the countries of the world and in all major cities. You may visit their website to www.artofliving.org to find out the location of their branch in your locality.
Remember, any Pranayama done incorrectly has the potential to be dangerous. It is recommended that you learn Pranayama through a qualified Yoga instructor.
As with aerobic exercises, benefits can be enjoyed with consistency. As with the homeopathic system, benefits are more forthcoming with regularity in timing of practice. In addition, as with aerobics and homeopathic programs a sensible diet, lean on fat, moderate on complex carbohydrates, rich in high fiber, protein and water, along with a good dose of patience brings sustained results. As with all Pranayamas, they are best done on an empty stomach in the morning or evening.
ALL INFORMATION GIVEN HERE IS TO BE CHECKED WITH YOUR DOCTOR AND A QUALIFIED/CERTIFIED YOGA INSTRUCTOR BEFORE IMPLEMENTING THEM OR TAKING THEM AS STANDARD OR VERIFIED.
Mamta Singh is a published author of the books Migraines for the Informed Woman (Publisher: Rupa & Co.), the upcoming Mentor Your Mind (Publisher: Sterling Publishers) and An Urban Woman's Integrated Fitness Guide (Publishers: Hay House). She is also a seasoned business, creative and academic writer. She is a certified fitness instructor, personal trainer & sports nutritionist through IFA, Florida USA. Mamta is an NCFE-certified Holistic Health Therapist SAC Dip U.K. She is the lead writer and holds Expert Author status in many well-received health, fitness and nutrition sites. She runs her own popular blogs on migraines in women and holistic health. Mamta holds a double Master's Degree in Commerce and Business. She is a registered practitioner with the UN recognised Art of Living Foundation. Link: http://www.migrainingjenny.wordpress.com. Visit www.mamtasingh.com