Sanskrit:
Antara – interior, within
Kumbhaka – suspension, holding
Kumbhaka – suspension, holding
Holding the inhalation
Benefits:
- Expands the lungs and chest
- Calms the mind
Contraindications:
- Breath retention is not recommended for those living with glaucoma, untreated high blood pressure, or for women who are pregnant
Technique:
- Sit comfortably in sukhasana
- Draw a breath in deeply until no more air can be drawn in
- Hold the inhalation in for as long as possible, working upwards to a count of 15
- It is good to engage both the Jalandhara (throat) and Mula (pelvic floor) Bandhas while holding the inhalation in Antara Kumbhaka
- Gently release the air through the nostrils and begin again, completing several rounds