Pranayama · प्राणायाम
Sheetali शीतली
Cooling Breath
- Beginner
- Breathing practice
- ⏱ 9–15 breaths
Sheetali is a cooling pranayama, especially welcome in summer or after a heating practice. Some people cannot curl the tongue — Sheetkari is the alternative.
Meaning of the name: Sheetal means cool — the breath is cooled as it passes over the tongue.
How to do Sheetali · विधिशीतली की विधि
- Sit comfortably with the spine straight.
- Stick the tongue out a little and curl the sides up into a tube.
- Inhale slowly through the tube of the tongue, feeling the cool air.
- Draw the tongue in, close the mouth and exhale slowly through the nose.
- Repeat 9–15 times.
Benefits · लाभलाभ
- Cools the body
- Calms the mind
- Traditionally recommended for excess heat (pitta)
Who should avoid it · सावधानियाँसावधानियाँ — किसे नहीं करना चाहिए
- Avoid in cold weather, and with low blood pressure, asthma, a cough or cold
- Do not practise in dusty or polluted air
Tips · सुझावसुझाव
- If you cannot curl the tongue, practise Sheetkari instead.
This guide is for general learning. Practise on an empty stomach, move within comfort, and learn from a qualified teacher. If you are pregnant, injured or have a medical condition, check with your doctor first.
