Bahya (External Breathing)

Bahya Pranayama, or external breath retention, is an advanced yogic practice involving deep inhalation, complete exhalation, and holding the breath outside the body while applying abdominal and chin locks (Bandhas) to massage organs, calm the nervous system, and improve focus, aiding digestion, reducing stress, and benefiting abdominal/pelvic health by stimulating circulation and strengthening internal muscles.

How to perform:

  • Sit comfortably.

  • Inhale deeply and slowly.

  • Exhale completely dropping the chin to the chest. Pull the stomach upwards as much as you can.

  • Hold that breath for 5 to 10 seconds, as you feel comfortable.

  • Then relax your stomach and inhale bringing head back to the center.

Benefits:

  • Helps to reduce and eventually cure stomach related ailments (like Constipation, Acidity, Gastric problem, Hernia).

  • Improves concentration of the mind.

  • Improves digestion.

  • Beneficial for diabetes patients.

  • Brings about calmness and tranquiltity.

  • Stimulates and balances thyroid.

Precautions:

  • Those who have cervical pain, do not apply Chin Lock.

  • Heart and high blood pressure patients should avoid doing this pranayama.

More breathing techniques are on my website https://breathing.inspirationforyou.club/ . Enjoy!