Yoga basics & beyond | August 2016

Your H(OM)e Practice

Pranayama: Sitkari

This pranayama technique is one of the "cooling" breath exercises that can be used to help bring down your internal temperature after a heated or invigorating yoga class. It can even be used during those dog days of summer! This technique is an alternative to Sitali, which requires the curl of the tongue. This technique allows a flat tongue so that the tip of the tongue can penetrate through the bottom and top teeth. The benefits of the techniques are the same: cools the system and soothes the eyes and ears. It is beneficial in cases of low fever as well as it activates the liver and the spleen, improves digestion and relieves thirst!

Pranayama: Sitali

This pranayama technique is a more advance "cooling" technique. More advanced because it requires more muscle memory and ability with the tongue. However, do not fret! The Sitkari pranayama is just as effective. If it is challenging to curl the tongue lengthwise, into a "u" like shape as it protrudes half way out of the mouth, then practice Sitkari.