Anuloma Pranayama (Sanskrit:अनुलोम प्राणायाम) is one of severalPranayama or breath exercises used in the Hindu practice ofhatha yoga.
Similar to the practice ofNadi Shodhana (commonly calledalternate nostril breathing and known in some circles asAnuloma Viloma) is the practice of inhaling through both nostrils together and exhaling each breath alternately between the left and right nostrils. The thumb of the right hand is used to manipulate the right nostril, while the pinky and ring finger are used to control the left nostril.Inverted Anuloma breath is calledPratiloma and involves inhaling through alternating nostrils and exhaling through both together. The practice of akumbhaka or retention is encouraged as students advance at the practice; first at the end of the inhale and eventually the end of the exhale.
When practiced asSaṃa Vṛtti the inhalation, retention and exhalation are all of equal duration. More advanced students may employViṣaṃa Vṛtti or uneven breath, using ratios such as 1:4:2 (one beat inhale, four beat retention, and a two beat exhale). According to many traditions this is not recommended for beginners or anyone practicing without the guidance of an experienced teacher.[1]
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