SHEETKARI

 Known as “Hissing Breath” (Or “Snake Breath”)

 This is a cooling breath
 The benefits and contraindications are basically the same as for sheetali

CONTRAINDICATIONS:

 Constipation  Asthma/respiratory infections

 Slow digestion  Diabetes
 Arthritis  Not enough pitta (Pitta means “fire” in
 Stress Ayurveda. This could mean hyper
 Depression metabolism, a very aggressive
 Low blood pressure personality, a fever, etc.)
 Sensitive/missing teeth
BENEFITS:

 Combats hypertension  Cools the body

 Relieves hyperactivity  Promotes peace and tranquility
 Combats diarrhea  Induces calm
 Eases menstruation  Reduces excess pitta

PRECAUTIONS:

 Do not practice when you are cold

 If you have sensitive or missing teeth or wear dentures, practice Sheetali instead

TECHNIQUE:

 Sit up straight in a comfortable position

 Touch your teeth together in a slight smile or grimace. Open your lips to bare your teeth
 Inhale through the mouth, feeling the air come through your teeth
 Close your mouth
 Exhale through your nose
 There will be a hissing sound when you inhale, but your exhales should be silent
 Take 10 to 20 breaths like this

TAKEAWAYS:

 Cools you down when you are hot

 Can calm you down