Preparation for Effective Pranayama



If the physical difficulties connected with poor or shallow breathing are to be rectified, a number of considerations must be taken. 

Environmental issues must be taken into account as well. It is not only emotionally gloomy, but it is also damaging to the lungs to live in a wet, dreary environment. 

  • For the treatment of breathing issues, proper air circulation must be ensured. 
  • Only a rush mat or a foam-rubber pad should be used as a sleeping mattress since it should be thin and rigid. 
  • Dust and bacteria can breed in a thick mattress packed with cotton batts or other materials, making it difficult to breathe properly. 
  • Dust, "nose," and lint gather on woolen blankets, wool carpets, and thick wool or damask drapery. 
  • It is necessary to avoid wearing filthy bedclothes. 
  • Rooms should be cleaned on a regular basis, with no cobwebs or dust allowed to gather. 
  • Cotton is preferred over other materials for bedclothes. 
  • Heavy blankets should be aired on a regular basis if they are used. 
  • Allergy sufferers should stay away from powders of all kinds. 
  • It is forbidden to use talcum powder or other body powders.
  • Many people are allergic to tooth powder or paste without even knowing it, which can lead to severe sinus and throat congestion, thus impeding proper pranayama. 


To perform Pranayama or Hatha Asanas, sufficient preparation as exampled below are required. 


1. If your hair is long, comb it and tie it up so that stray hair ends don't obstruct your breathing. 

2. Cleanse the body, preferably with a gentle, warm shower, before the practice. A hot shower should never be taken before engaging in any Yogic activities. 

3. Wear clean, loose, comfortable clothing, and if feasible, complete these exercises nude in the privacy of your own home. Tight underwear, belts, tight jewelry, and other encumbering accessories should be avoided. 

4. After your Yoga session, take another shower, ideally with a cold rinse. This may be uncomfortable at first, but it will quickly pay off as the body's circulation improves and tolerance to cold air and water increases. 

5. Cover a blanket, a soft cushion, a towel, or a rush mat with a clean cotton cloth folded in half. Avoid moist, cold environments. 

6. Your "yoga seat" should be in a well-ventilated place, and if you can't get out of the house, open the windows to let the stale air out. You should not re-breathe stale, rotting, or filthy air under any circumstances. 

7. Your practicing space should be devoid of visual distractions such as flashing lights, neon signs, or any bright light, and insects and the sounds of screaming radios or loudspeakers should be avoided. 

8. Do not practice on an empty stomach; wait at least one hour after a snack or a fight meal before doing so. You can drink a cup of weak tea or lime water. Milk and other mucous-producing drinks should be avoided. 

9. If you need to void pee or empty your bowels, do so. Pranayama and Hatha Asanas should be practiced with an empty stomach. If constipation is persistent, mild herbal purgatives or a warm water enema are indicated. If you're constipated, start your day with a glass of warm lime water. Light food may be had half an hour after these activities, but acid-producing and mucus-producing meals should be avoided.


You may also want to read more about Yoga here.

You may also want to read more about Yoga Asanas and Exercises here.