Ayurveda is a holistic healing system. It emphasizes the importance of the underlying inter-connectivity of nature and how our general lifestyle and habits impact the balance or imbalance of our mind, body, and spirit.
In our last article, we spoke briefly on the role of doshas in Ayurvedic medicine. If you’d like to know your dosha constitution, I’d recommend taking this short quiz: https://chopra.com/dosha-quiz
As we mentioned before, the summer months are ruled by the Pitta dosha. Pitta embodies the properties of fire and water. In this article, I’ll be sharing how you can balance your inner pitta through pranayama or breathing exercises. I’ll also share one yoga asana (posture) that’s great for pacifying Pitta types, as well. For more tips on how to balance Pitta through diet and lifestyle check out our previous article (Get Balanced this Pitta Season!)
“When sound, breath, and awareness come together, it becomes light… So Hum meditation properly practiced leads to the union of the individual with the universal Cosmic Consciousness. You will go beyond thought, beyond time and space, beyond cause and effect. Limitations will vanish.” ----Dr. Vasant Lad
So Hum Meditation (Silent Breathe Meditation)
The literal translation of So Hum is “I am that,” and diving deeper, this mantra can further translate to “I am that pure awareness.” The focus of this mantra is to calm the mind but to also simultaneously sharpen it as well. When we begin to truly realize this meditation, we allow ourselves to propel past our own individuality and become more interconnected with all that is around us. According to Dr. Vasant Lad, the So Hum meditation is of an excellent construction because it synchronizes the movement of our breath with the mantra so that it shifts naturally from inhalation (So) to exhalation (Hum). (So) is meant to be felt mentally during the whole phase of inhalation and (Hum) during the exhalation.
Kaki Pranayama (Crow’s Breathe)
Another great pranayama to pacify the Pitta Dosha is a yogic breathing technique called Kaki Pranayama also known as Crow's Breath. This technique purposefully elongates the inhalation in order to slow down the pace of your breathing. This is essential in balancing Pitta’s inner fire. In general, this breathing technique is also great at pacifying any negative emotions, anger, or repressed tension.
To begin, close your eyes and purse your lips so that they form a small "O" shape.
On inhalation, breathe in as if you are drinking through a straw.
Before beginning the exhalation, hold the mouth closed at the top of the inhalation
Exhalation is then released through the nose.
Repeat this cycle of gentle inhalation and exhalation for about 5 minutes
Expect a cooling sensation to radiate through the tongue and then flow through your body with each inhale. Purposefully, with each inhale, you are considerably dissipating any inner heat built up within you.
When it comes to general movement and yoga asanas (postures), pitta benefits most from cool and non-competitive yoga movements. One great asana to incorporate in your practice is Bhujangsana also known as Cobra Pose.
Bhujagsana (Cobra Pose)
Resembling the head and trunk of a cobra, bujangasana or cobra pose helps to strengthen the muscles of the lower back and increase flexibility of the spine.
Lie flat on your stomach
Both hands should flat on each side of you with palms facing down with arms bent at the elbows, lift yourself up by placing weight on your palms
As you raise the head, take a slow inhale
Breathe normally for 30 seconds
Toes should touch; feet, thighs and hips should remain on the floor
Release this pose by slowly lowering your chest back on to the ground/mat and unbend arms
This asana is great for strengthening the lower back muscles, and increasing flexibility of the spine and surrounding muscles.
Avoid this asana if you are suffering from any back, spine, or hernia problems. Women who are pregnant should also avoid this pose.
Check out our reel on Instagram (below), for some other great Pitta pacifying yoga poses!
As a reminder, the content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the emergency department, or call 911 immediately.
Additionally, I want to remind all my readers that I am a student of life too, and that I’m still learning a lot on my journey to better wellness. I like to share what I am learning however, I do not claim to be an expert on Ayurveda or other holistic practices. As a reader, please be kind!