Types of Fast Breathing:
Type1: Inhaling and exhaling through both nostrils.
Type2: Close the right nostril and inhale and exhale through the left nostril.
Type 3: Close the left nostril and inhale and exhale through the right nostril.
Type 4: Inhale through the left nostril and exhale through the right nostril.
Type 5: Inhale through the right nostril and exhale through the left nostril.
Type 6: Inhale through the left nostril, exhale through the right, inhale through the right and then exhale through left.
Begin with normally breathing, bringing awareness to the movement of the abdomen and the chest. Place the right hand in Pranava Mudra and bring the hand to the lips. Block the appropriate nostril depending on the fast breathing type being performed. Begin inhalation and exhalation, building up speed. Practice fast inhalations and exhalations, about 30 times is enough when pregnant. Reduce the speed and return to normal breathing. Make sure the body remains relaxed and steady throughout the practice.
Benefits
- Due to the fast inhalations and exhalations, the carbon dioxide levels in the blood fall and oxygen levels increase in the blood. Rich oxygenated blood is supplied to the vital organs, improving their function.
- Due to rapid exchange of gases on a cellular level, toxins are removed and the cells are revitalized.
- The fast movement of the diaphragm gives massage to the digestive organs, lungs and heart, increasing their efficiency.
- Increases the overall prana in the body.
- Gets rid of excess mucus which helps in removing sinusitis and common cold etc.
- Clears blocked nostrils in preparation for pranayam
- Increases lung capacity
- Preparation for labour, particularly during contractions
Precautions & Contraindications
Should be avoided if one has high blood pressure, heart problems, ulcers or hernia.
Only a small amount (1-2 rounds) of fast breathing should be done during pregnancy and only if it feels comfortable to do so. It is not recommended in the first trimester and is generally not comfortable to do in the third trimester. If one feels any dizziness or light headedness it should be avoided. If this happens stop the fast breathing and hold the breath for about 10 seconds, or try to inhale and exhale in a paper bag, then continue normal breathing. If one has any complications during pregnancy then avoid fast breathing completely.
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