Ujjayi Pranayama

2) Ujjayi

Having closed the opening of the Nadis (Larynx), the air should be drawn in such a way that it goes touching from the throat to the chest, and making noise while passing.

Ujjayi Means victorious comes from root word ‘Ujji’ which means to conquer or acquire by conquest. Its also victory from the bondage of life. generally its called as psychic breath because of its effects on the mind.

Ujjayi promotes internalization of the senses and pratyahara. When used in meditation, Kumbhaka is omitted and Ujjayi is performed through both the nostrils with natural inhalation and exhalation.

Note: Ujjayi is generally practiced in conjunction with khechari mudra(tongue rolled up to the soft pallet), which helps to minimize the chances of sore throat.

Benefits:

Kapha(phelm), Vayu (air) and digestive and spleen disorders do not occur.

Removes heat in the head.

Prepares for the meditation and brings great calmness for the mind.

Reduces tension and thought process.

Increases jatara agni (gastric fire).

Removes phlegm in the throat.

All sorts of pulmonary disorders can be prevented and cured.

Soothes the nervous system.

Recommended for people who are with Insomnia and mental tensions and migraine.

Stimulates thyroid gland.

Eases diseases of lungs, chest and throat.

Limitation:

Low blood pressure

Heart problems when done with retention of breath.