I am a student of a kids yoga program; Nishtha. My yoga journey began over two years ago at Hatha Vidya, a place that has become my second home. It was a beautiful and interesting journey. I enrolled in the yoga program for kids and it has almost completely changed me. Looking back, I could see a huge difference in my attitude and behavior.
The Nishta program started with ‘The Drops’ textbook, and we studied till ‘The Mould’ book. As new kids joined, I made friends with them. We begin with simple Asanas and then progress towards Meditation and Pranayama techniques, which I intend to discuss in this blog.
Back then, when I was first introduced to the classes, I was a little embarrassed to perform various asanas. Although it was fun, I had difficulty with the practices as I was stiff, and it caused me body pain during the initial days. As months passed by, I enjoyed the classes and became more flexible and agile. I reached a state, where I could easily follow the instructions and perform even the most advanced asanas with utmost ease. This filled me with confidence, like never before.
Meditation and relaxation techniques significantly improved my concentration and calmed my mind, which has been extremely beneficial during my exam days. My memory has improved, resulting in enhanced academic performance.
Additionally, the support and guidance from the teachers were instrumental in this journey. Words fall short to thank them for their patience and understanding. Even in a group setting, we received undivided attention. Their feedback and assessments, along with a healthy competitive environment, aided in better assimilation of yoga teachings.
Without much ado, let me discuss my pranayama experience.
Pranayama Experience Journey
It is in my Nishtha class that I first heard the word Pranayama. Back then, I didn’t know the process, techniques, stages, or even basic steps. However, now, it is one of the practices I like the most.
The Basics of Pranayama
At Nishtha classes, there are certain preparatory steps before starting pranayama. The initial steps are simple yet crucial:
Sit in Padmasana with a straight back.
Close your eyes and place your palms on your knees.
Keep the right hand in Vishnu mudra and the left in Jnana mudra.
Pranayama Techniques
Different Pranayama techniques are taught at Hatha Vidya. Now, let's explore a few techniques.
Nadi Shudhi
Press the right thumb on the right nostril and keep the left hand in jnana mudra. Breathe in and breathe out through the left nostril as per the ratio mentioned by the teacher. Repeat the same on the opposite nostril.
Anulom Vilom First, place the right thumb on your right nostril and try to breathe in from the left. Then, place the ring finger on your left nostril and breathe out through the right. Then breathe in through the right nostril placing the thumb on the same side and breathe out through the left. Repeat the process until the breathing ratios as instructed by teachers are completed.
Jiva bhanda
Place the tongue tip on the upper palate.
Extend your tongue and press it against the upper palate while opening the mouth to be in jiva bhanda.
Hold the position for a comfortable duration and release your tongue to the original position.
This should be repeated as per the prescribed number of rounds as instructed by the teacher.
Bhramari
Be comfortable in a meditative position.
Close your eyes and place your hands on the knees.
Folding your tongue places its tip on the upper palate.
Breathe in. As you breathe out, make a bee-like sound for as much duration as you can.
Pranayama, for me, is more than just breathing exercises. This practice has brought me immense calm and focus.
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