Also called Alternate Nostril breathing, this beginner – level Pranayama is something that you have heard about, but unsure of. To practice such an important breathing exercise, you must train under someone, to do it in a proper manner. The yoga teacher training in Rishikesh, is for those looking to perfect their breathing techniques. 

First, let us discover the meaning of Anulom Vilom. ‘Anulom’ means ‘order’, while ‘Vilom’ means ‘opposite’. 

Anulom Vilom Pranayama Practice Taught In The Yoga Teacher Training In Rishikesh

The Anulom Vilom practice is connected with the yogic sciences, as mentioned in spiritual texts. This practice can help you to enhance the flow of ‘Prana’ or ‘life energy’. It is believed that this breathing practice has the power to balance the energies that flow through the Ida and Pingala. It ultimately leads to a state of balance. Moreover, this Pranayama practice has several benefits. Before we jump into the benefits of this Pranayama, you must learn how to do it. 

This is not a replacement for the training that one generally takes at a yoga school. However, you can still follow this for your knowledge. The 

Procedure To Do Anulom Vilom 

• Seat in a comfortable position. Padmasana or Sukhasana poses are ideal. 
• Before you start the practice, clean your nasal channels for best performance. You can use a neti pot and salt water for the same. 
• Adopt the Vishnu mudra with your hands, in which you are supposed to fold the index and the middle finger inwards, while using the thumb to close the right nostril. Use the ring finger and little finger to close the left one, as the process moves forward. Do this alternately. 
• Place your other hand in Gyan mudra, on the knees. 
• Inhale through the left nostril and then close it. Thereafter, exhale through the right. Inhale through the right again, and close it. Exhale through the left. 

You can do this for 5-10 cycles every day. Students will also be able to learn the Anulom Vilom technique as a part of the 500 hour yoga teacher training in Rishikesh. 

Benefits Of Anulom Vilom 

Practicing Anulom Vilom on a daily basis, has a number of benefits. Let us understand the same. 

• Your energy will flow in a balanced manner, making you feel exuberant. 
• Your stress levels will go down, due to the less production of cortisol, which is the stress hormone. 
• Your respiratory function will also increase, leading to overall lung health. 
• As you practice this Pranayama daily, your concentration and focus will also increase. 
• The controlled breathing technique leads to the elimination of toxins from the body, as well. So, your blood gets purified and your organs regain their vitality. 
• You can also manage to reset your body temperature, which ultimately helps in managing overall health. 

Who Should Not Practice Anulom Vilom?

Although Anulom Vilom is an extremely beneficial breathing technique, you must exercise some restraint. When you learn such important yogic techniques under the guidance of a Guru or experienced teacher, you get to know all sorts of benefits, as well as contraindications. 

Some individuals must refrain from practicing Anulom Vilom. If you are suffering from any sort of respiratory disease, or have chronic sinus problems, it is best to avoid it. If you are pregnant, you must avoid it as well. Those who experience extensive anxiety, should also avoid this practice. 

Importance Of Guidance 

You can join the 500 hour yoga teacher training in Rishikesh, under the skilled guidance of the best teachers. The certified yoga teachers in Rishikesh, have complete knowledge of such breathing techniques. They have been practicing these breathing techniques for a long time, since receiving their training. So, it will be apt to enrol yourself for a course and then practice it daily, keeping all the benefits and contraindications in mind.