Shitali \ Sitkari Breath

Shitali breath. What is it?

It is a breathing technique that effectively cools down the body. I like to practice it after an intense hot yoga class.

How to practice:

1. Stick out your tongue and curl your tongue upwardly on each side, forming a tube shape while inhaling, almost like you are drinking through a straw. You will feel the coolness of the air.

2. Bring the tongue back into your mouth. Close your mouth and swallow the air, and pause (kumbhaka).

3. Exhale through the nostrils and pause.

Repeat 4 more times.

Now, if you're like me and can't curl your tongue, you can practice Sitkari.

How to practice:

1. Gently press your lower and upper teeth together and separate your lips as much as you comfortably can, so your teeth are exposed to the air.

2. Inhale slowing through the gaps of your teeth.

3. Close your mouth and swallow the air.

4. Slowly exhale through your nostrils.

Repeat 4 more times

Enoying your practice everyone!