Most of people are not aware of the respiratory system and breathing patterns resulting in irregular and shallow breathing. Breathing rhythmically essentially involves observing your breathing and simultaneous conditioning of inflow, outflow and retention of breath in a rhythmic pattern. Breathing rate slows down while following a relaxed rhythm. This relaxes the body and also reduce wear and tear of internal organs.
Technique. Rhythmic breathing involves breathing in a fixed rhythmic pattern where ratio of inhalation, retention, exhalation and retention is of 2:1:2:1. Do not hold breathing if you are suffering from blood pressure or any heart disease. For beginners count while you breathe in four parts:
inhalalation
pause after inhalation
exhalation
pause after exhaling
Simply observe the breath, do not force the breath. Initially start breathing the way you breathe presently but gradually try to increase the depth of your breathing. Visualise that you are getting prana energy with each inhalation and each exhalation is taking out toxins from the body. Develop complete awareness of the rhythmic flow of breath.
Preparation
General guidelines for pranayama before starting this pranayama.
Sit on your favourite Asana (Vajra asana, Padma asana, Sukh asana) in a well ventilated room free from any distractions.
Beginners can sit on a chair or sit cross legged on the yoga mat/ carpet keeping your back and neck in a straight line. For very weak persons, lie down in supine position similar to shava asana.
