Beat the Heat

Summer is officially here and that means warmer, longer days.  It’s so easy to get over heated and feel like you’re bouncing from one activity to the next during this season. Practicing sitali breath is the perfect way to cool and calm your body and mind.  

 

Sitali cools the body, adds moisture to the system, and in relation to ayurveda, soothes a pitta imbalance. This breath work can also reduce fatigue, fevers, and high blood pressure.  

 

First, sit comfortably with the head, neck, and spine in alignment.  Close your eyes and start to deepen your inhales and exhales.  Then open the mouth forming an “O” with the lips.

 

Curl the tongue lengthwise and inhale deeply as if drinking through a straw.  Focus on the cooling sensation as your lower ribs expand.  Withdraw the tongue and close the mouth, exhaling through the nostrils.  Continue for 2 to 3 minutes.  

 

Pranayama or breath work can be practiced almost anywhere, so take a break from your busy day and just breathe.