Anulom Vilom is a specific type of pranayama, or controlled breathing, in yoga. It involves holding one nostril closed while inhaling, then holding the other nostril closed while exhaling. The process is then reversed and repeated. aka alternate nostril breathing.
Alternate nostril breathing is said to have many physical and psychological benefits, including:
improved breathing
improved cardiovascular function
stress reduction
improved patience, focus, and control
relief from stress and anxiety
improvements to brain, respiratory, and cardiovascular health
a better overall sense of well-being
There’s scientific evidence that supports some of these claims. Most people can practice Anulom Vilom breathing safely and without risk. Potential Anulom Vilom benefits
As you gain more awareness and control over your breathing, you may find that it has an immediate calming effect.
There are many potential benefits. Some specific claims are backed by research, but some have not been fully studied.
Practicing Anulom Vilom breathing first thing in the morning may help you start your day in a better place. In the evening, it can also serve as a relaxation method to promote better sleep.
There’s also evidence that alternate nostril breathing can benefit your brain as well as your respiratory and cardiovascular systems. It’s shown to reduce stress, too. These are changes that can affect every aspect of your health and well-being.
Your respiratory system
Yoga breathing practices may improve lung function and endurance, according to a small 2017 study.
This research involved competitive swimmers who used alternate nostril breathing along with two other breathing practices. Participants did 30 minutes worth of breathing exercises 5 days a week for 1 month.
A 2019 literature review of 68 studies found that yogic breathing is an effective way to enhance lung function.
Other research from 2013 showed that Anulom Vilom breathing for 30 minutes a day can improve rhinosinusitis, or sinus inflammation. This condition interferes with your ability to drain mucus from your nose and sinuses.
Your brain
In a randomized controlled trial Trusted Source from 2013, 96 medical students were divided into two groups for 6 weeks. One group performed Anulom Vilom and Bhastrika, another type of pranayama. The other group performed Surya Namaskar, also known as the Sun Salutation.
Both groups improved their general well-being, but only the pranayama group saw significant improvements in cognition and anxiety.
A 2019 literature review suggested that various types of yogic breathing could benefit neurocognitive, psychophysiological, biochemical, and metabolic functions in healthy people.
Your cardiovascular system
Studies from 2011 and 2013 found that alternate nostril breathing had a positive impact on cardiovascular function, lowering blood pressure and heart rate.
Your skin
There are many anecdotal claims that Anulom Vilom breathing is good for the skin. Skin is the largest organ of the body and — like your respiratory and cardiovascular systems — it can also be affected by stress.
It’s possible that your skin will reap some reward from breathing exercises, though there’s a lack of research to support this specific claim.
Your eyes
There’s little in the way of research on Anulom Vilom breathing and eyesight. It is known, however, that eye health depends on a good supply of oxygen.
Alternate nostril breathing can improve respiratory and cardiovascular health, so it may provide some benefit for your eyes too.
Possible risks
Anulom Vilom breathing should be safe and risk-free for most people who don’t have health issues. According to the 2019 literature review mentioned earlier, yogic breathing is safe when guided by a trained teacher.
Anulom Vilom is safe for most people, but those with chronic respiratory or cardiovascular problems should speak with a doctor first.
Health Disclaimer:
YogawithPriyanka, strongly recommends that you consult your physician/healthcare provider or doctor regarding the applicability of any recommendations and follow all safety instructions before beginning any exercise program. When participating in any exercise or exercise program, there is the possibility of physical injury. If you engage in this exercise or exercise program, you agree that you do so at your own risk, are voluntarily participating in these activities, assume all risk of injury to yourself.
Another Disclaimer:
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