Sheetkari
शीतकारी
A cooling breath technique where air is drawn in through clenched teeth, producing a hissing sound that lowers body temperature.
Sheetkari Pranayama, meaning "the hissing breath," is a cooling pranayama technique similar to Sheetali but accessible to everyone regardless of whether they can curl their tongue. In this practice, the teeth are gently clenched and the lips parted, allowing air to be drawn in through the gaps between the teeth with a hissing sound.
Bal Lahoti teaches Sheetkari as an alternative to Sheetali for those who cannot curl their tongue. The cooling effect is similar — the air passing over the moist surfaces of the mouth and tongue is cooled before entering the lungs. This practice is excellent for reducing body temperature, calming the nervous system, and promoting a sense of freshness and alertness. Bal recommends it especially during summer months or after physical activity.
✦Key Benefits
- Cools the body effectively
- Accessible to everyone (no tongue curling needed)
- Calms the nervous system
- Reduces thirst and hunger
- Promotes dental health through increased saliva
- Helps control high blood pressure
