Sheetali
शीतली
A cooling pranayama technique where air is drawn in through a curled tongue, lowering body temperature and improving circulation.
Sheetali Pranayama, meaning "cooling breath" in Sanskrit, is a unique breathing technique where the practitioner curls the tongue into a tube shape and inhales through it, drawing cool air into the body. The exhalation is done through the nose.
Bal Lahoti teaches Sheetali as an essential practice for managing body heat and improving blood circulation. He explains that this technique is particularly valuable in hot weather or when the body is overheated. The cooling effect of the breath helps lower blood pressure, reduce acidity, and calm the mind. Bal notes that not everyone can curl their tongue (it's a genetic trait), and for those who cannot, the similar technique of Sheetkari can be practiced instead.
✦Key Benefits
- Cools the body naturally
- Lowers blood pressure
- Improves blood circulation
- Reduces body heat and fever
- Calms anger and emotional agitation
- Helps with acid reflux and digestion
