Yoga began as a path to health and mental clarity over 5,000 years ago. Believed to combine the body and spirit in harmony, yoga postures and breathing techniques are practiced to make the body more efficient, according to the American Yoga Association. The practice of applied breathing techniques in yoga are referred to as pranayama, and can relieve stress and increase oxygen supplies to the brain.
Breathing techniques have never been scientifically proven to treat any condition. Speak with a physician before beginning any yoga or pranayama routine.
Nadi Sodhana
One of the more popular pranayamas, nadi sodhana, or alternate nostril breathing, is used to cleanse the nervous system, improve health during a cold, strengthen the heart and release tension in the muscles, according to yoga website Health and Yoga. To do this type of breathing, sit in a cross-legged position. Using the thumb, close one nostril while breathing in deeply through the other. Release your breath. Alternate nostrils 10 to 15 times.
Shitali Pranayama
The shitali, or cooling, pranayama, according to Health and Yoga, is employed to reduce fever, purify the blood, strengthen the spleen and liver, reduce tension and relax the nervous system. Shitali pranayama is accomplished by sitting in a meditative position, upright, while breathing in air through the mouth. Your mouth should form the shape of an "O" as you inhale. Hold each breath for a few seconds before releasing. Repeat the exercise between five and 10 times.
Bhastrika Pranayama
According to Health and Yoga, the bhastrika, or bellows, pranayama is beneficial for the respiratory system and may help to improve the function of digestive organs. To do this pranayama, sit in a meditative position. Put your left hand on your left knee. Make a fist with your right hand while extending your right thumb. With your thumb, close your right nostril. Exhale through the open nostril and then inhale forcefully. Do this repeatedly while increasing the speed of breathing. Then, lower the speed to return to the original breathing speed. Repeat with other nostril.
Kapalabhati Pranayama
The kapalabhati, or skull shining, pranayama is believed to cleanse the capillaries in the body, purify the frontal lobe, help reduce the symptoms of asthma and diabetes and cleanse the nasal passages, according to Health and Yoga. Sit in a cross-legged position and relax by inhaling and exhaling two or three times. Inhale deeply and exhale forcefully, making sure to get all the air out of your lungs. Your next inhale should be natural and not forced. Repeat the exercise 20 to 30 times.
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