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BHRAMARI
PRANAYAMA
| Introduction
:
The
original word in the term Bhramari is Bhramar (humming bee).
This pranayam relates to the word bhramar, i. e. the sound
that bhramar emits. The characteristics of this pranayama
is to create a sound like that of the humming bee while performing
Pooraka or Rechaka. Hence, we can state that the name is quite
appropriate.
To
perform the Pranayama :
The
earlier dos and don'ts and cautions apply to this type too.
The pranayama should be studied while sitting in asanas such
as Padmasan or Simhasan. Since the left or right nostril is
not to be used independently, there is no need for Pranavmudra.
The entire action is with both the nostrils.
Pooraka
:
To
perform the Pooraka efficiently, first perform a gradual Rechaka
and then start Pooraka. While inhaling air, the soft palate
of the breathing tube in the throat area should be pressed
a little so as to |
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obstruct the air flow. Since this palate
is soft and flexible, it starts vibrating and a peculiar sound
is generated. Initially, the sound is hoarse and odd. However,
with continuous practice, the sound turns melodious and similar
to the beautiful tone of the humming bee. This sound is of
a lower volume than that in Rechaka. Hence, it is termed as
Bhramar Dhwani (sound of humming bee). When the Pooraka with
a constant pace and the sound is complete, then Kumbhaka is
performed.
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Kumbhaka
:
When
the Pooraka is completed, both the nostrils are closed with pranavmudra,
all the three bandhas are fixed and Kumbhaka is performed. No sound
is expected while being in Kumbhaka. All the three bandhas should
be observed as described earlier. Initially, the duration of the
Kumbhaka should be same as that of Pooraka and then gradually it
should be increased with continued practice to be four times that
of Pooraka.
Rechaka
:
After
completion of Kumbhaka, the bandhas should be released in the order
defined earlier and Rechaka should be started. The Rechaka, too
should generate sound as that in Pooraka. However, the sound generated
here is more in volume than that in Pooraka. This can be termed
as Bhraamari Naad (sound of female humming bee) this is more melodious
than earlier. The sound should be gradual and at a constant pace
without any ups and downs. With continued practice, the sound will
be more clear and pleasing to the ears. The units in Rechaka should
be double that that in Pooraka. After Rechaka, the next rotation
can be immediately commenced.
Duration
:
The
duration of the study of Pranayama cannot be limited to the duration
of one cycle only. Maintaining the same proportion of Pooraka, Kumbhaka
and Rechaka in one cycle, the number of cycles that can be performed
at a stretch will define the duration for the Pranayama study. During
this syllabus, the Pranayama should be practiced for at least ten
minutes duration. Initially, only a single cycle is performed. However,
with practice, the duration can be increased.
Physical
Effects :
The
effects of this Pranayama have not been researched and hence cannot
be definitely stated. Earlier, we have reviewed the effects of Kumbhaka
performed with all the three bandhas. Those effects are no doubt
present, but due to the sound, the concentration of the mind is
also facilitated. The vibrations generated in the body due to the
sound, also have a good effect on the internal organs and mainly
the brain and the nervous system. However, the definite effects
cannot be stated today.
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