Breath & Bandhas

Question 1

Pranayama

Answer 1

Translates to “Extension/expansion of prana (breath/life force).”Pranayama regulates breath and body chemistry and emotions indirectly, facilitating meditation.

Question 2

Ujjai / Ujjayi Pranayama

Answer 2

Pranayama technique including both directed breath and sound (created by constricting the glottis). Mula bandha is engaged at the end of the exhale. Used to stimulate heat and digestive fire.

Question 3

Abdominal Breathing

Answer 3

Breathing into the belly, without bandha usage. Induces a relaxation response and allows lungs to absorb more oxygen.

Question 4

Anuloma Viloma

Answer 4

Alternate-nostril breathing. Balances the nadis (energy channels) and purifies the blood.

Question 5

Kapalabhati

Answer 5

Skull-Shining Breath + Breath of Fire. Pumping breath from the belly. Improves the immune system, relieves asthma and sinus issues, expands lung capacity. Not suitable for pregnancy, and practiced only slowly with high blood pressure.

Question 6

Mula Bandha

Answer 6

Root lock. Perineal muscles are engaged and drawn up.

Question 7

Uddiyana Bandha

Answer 7

Inner air and organs draw upward to create a vacuum. Ribs become prominent. Very advanced practice that is meant for pranayama during breath retention, but is often called just as a cue for deep core engagement.

Question 8

Jalandhara Banha

Answer 8

Throat lock.