Pranayama is a Sanskrit word that means a way of breathing. It is part of yoga exercises. The word originates from “Prana,” an Indian term meaning life energy, and “Yama,” meaning control. Therefore, pranayama is all about controlling your breath. For thousands of years, it has been practiced. Many find it beneficial for their health. Among the biggest benefits of Pranayama for heart health. Let’s look at how this works and why it’s good for the heart. If you are looking for online yoga and meditation classes, read the entire blog.
Lowers Stress
Pranayama lowers stress. When you are stressed, your heartbeat increases, putting your body in “fight or flight” mode. Over time, this may strain your heart. With pranayama, you start to breathe slowly, sending a signal to your body to relax. Consequently, your heart rate decreases, and your blood pressure may also lower—both of which are beneficial for your heart.
Improves Oxygen Supply
When pranayama is practiced, you take deep breaths, allowing more oxygen to enter your lungs. This oxygen is carried through your blood to your heart, which requires it to function properly. With a better supply of oxygen, the heart can work more efficiently.
Reduces Blood Pressure
High blood pressure isn’t good for the heart, as it forces the heart to overwork. Over time, this can lead to damage. Pranayama helps reduce blood pressure by promoting deep, slow breathing, which relaxes your nervous system and reduces tension in your blood vessels. This decrease in blood pressure supports better heart health.
Improves Circulation
Pranayama improves circulation. When you breathe deeply, your blood receives more oxygen. Oxygenated blood flows more effectively throughout the body, helping to deliver nutrients and oxygen to all organs, including the heart. Better circulation means a healthier heart.
Helps in Weight Management
Being overweight can increase the risk of heart disease. However, pranayama can help regulate body weight. Certain pranayama techniques, such as Kapalbhati, can speed up your metabolism, allowing you to burn calories faster. When combined with a proper diet and regular exercise, pranayama can help you maintain a healthy body weight, benefiting your heart.
Reduces Inflammation
Inflammation can harm the heart and lead to atherosclerosis, a condition in which the inner lining of the arteries becomes clogged. Pranayama reduces inflammation by decreasing stress hormones that contribute to inflammation. Regular practice of pranayama helps reduce the rate of inflammation, protecting your heart.
Strengthens the Heart
Pranayama strengthens the heart muscles. With regular practice, your heart becomes better equipped to pump blood, improving overall cardiac health. A stronger heart lowers the risk of heart disease.
Improves Mind-Body Connection
Pranayama also aligns your mind with your body. This awareness encourages you to take better care of yourself and make healthier lifestyle choices that benefit your heart.
How to Practice Pranayama for Heart Health
Here are a few simple pranayama techniques to try:
- Deep Breathing (Diaphragmatic Breathing): Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and inhale deeply through your nose, allowing your belly to rise. Exhale slowly. Repeat for a few minutes.
- Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing): Close your right nostril with your right thumb. Inhale through your left nostril. Close the left nostril with your right ring finger and release your right nostril, exhaling through it. Then, inhale through the right nostril, close it again with your thumb, and exhale through the left nostril. Repeat for a few minutes.
- Bhramari (Bee Breathing): Inhale deeply and, as you exhale, make a humming sound like a buzzing bee. This technique helps relax the mind and lower heart rate.
Make It a Habit
To reap the benefits of pranayama, it must be practiced regularly. Start with a few minutes each day and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable. Over time, you’ll notice improvements in your heart health, feeling calmer, more focused, and energized.
If you’re interested in learning more about pranayama and improving your overall health, visit One Wellness at their official website for online pranayama training. Their expertise can help kick-start your wellness journey and maintain heart health through pranayama. Try it today!
