'Naga' means 'serpent' in sanskrit. This breathing stimulates the special skin breath of the serpent. The human skin has an elimination function like the kidneys or the lungs. It contains a great number of pores which allows toxins to be properly released. It is thus advisable to practice this purification technique before any cycle of pranayamas for regeneration. It also improves the breathing capacity.
- Sit in vajarasana. Inhale deeply through the nose. Hold the breath for a period of ten seconds. Then take another inhalation and hold the breath again for ten seconds. Exhale slowly through the mouth like snake.
- With this practice, the skin becomes warm and perspiration may even begin to form on the arms. Repeat this process three times and then, lie on the back and relax totally.
- This is a very powerful kumbhaka and it should not be practiced by persons with weak lungs, bronchial problems or a weak heart.
This naga pranayama channelizes the pranic energy and activates the energy centres of our chakras.
