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The History of Alternate Nostril Breathing
Alternate nostril breathing (ANB), also known as nadi
shodhana, is a yogic breathing technique that has been practiced for centuries.
It is a simple yet powerful way to calm the mind and body, and it can be used
to reduce stress, anxiety, and insomnia.
The history of ANB is long and winding. It has been used in
ancient Indian texts such as the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita, and it is
also mentioned in the Bible. In the West, ANB first became popular in the
1960s, when it was introduced by Leonard Orr, a pioneer of rebirthing
breathwork.
Orr discovered ANB while experimenting with different
breathing patterns. He found that it helped to calm his mind and body, and he
began to teach it to others. ANB quickly became popular among yogis and
meditators, and it has since been adopted by people of all backgrounds.
The Benefits of Alternate Nostril Breathing
There are many benefits to ANB. It can help to:
- Reduce
stress and anxiety
- Improve
sleep
- Boost
energy levels
- Improve
concentration
- Increase
self-awareness
- Improve
overall well-being
ANB works by balancing the energy in the body. When you
breathe through alternate nostrils, you are essentially stimulating the two
sides of your brain and the two hemispheres of your nervous system. This can
help to improve your mood, reduce stress, and improve your overall health.
How to Do Alternate Nostril Breathing
There are many different ways to do ANB, but the basic
technique is as follows:
- Sit in
a comfortable position with your legs crossed.
- Place
your right hand on your right knee.
- Use
your left thumb to close your left nostril.
- Inhale
slowly and deeply through your right nostril.
- Exhale
slowly and completely through your left nostril.
- Repeat
steps 3-5, but this time use your right thumb to close your right nostril.
- Continue
this pattern for 5-10 minutes, or until you feel relaxed and calm.
If you are new to ANB, you may find it helpful to use a
timer to help you keep track of the time. You can also use a finger or a cotton
ball to block your nostrils if you don't have a thumb.
Conclusion
Alternate nostril breathing is a simple yet powerful way to
improve your health and well-being. If you are looking for a way to reduce
stress, improve sleep, or boost your energy levels, ANB is a great option to
try.