Meditation and pranayama have astonishing health benefits everyone. In these challenging times of an ongoing COVID-19 Pandemic, deadly coronavirus strains, lockdowns, social distancing, travel bans and more, your physical as well as mental health has been impacted drastically. Turning to meditation and pranayama is a wise option today to sail through these tough times however, the question most people are unsure about is – Should Yoga, meditation and pranayama be practiced on an empty stomach? In today’s post, we will look into this answer and much more, stay with us till the end.
Pranayama On An Empty Stomach
Pranayama is an indispensable part of yoga. The word “pranayama” is derived from two Sanskrit words – Prana and Yama meaning “control over life energy”.
Pranayama entails a rhythmic system of controlled breathing patterns and exercises. Here, you intentionally inhale deep, hold your breath and exhale in a regular sequenced manner.
When teamed up with yoga asanas and meditation, pranayama alleviates multiple physical ailments and relaxes the mind. Similar to gym workouts and yoga asanas, there is a “right” way of practicing pranayama to reap its optimal benefits.
The most important being that Yoga, Mediation and Pranayama should be practiced only when your stomach is empty.
Why?
Pranayama releases an abundance of energy. It is vital for you to focus on this energy for yoga asanas and breathing for maximum health benefits. When you perform any sort of Yoga on a full stomach instead of empty stomach, it becomes challenging for you to remain focused and calm. The energy emitted during pranayama is consumed for digesting your food instead of making your mind still and healing you physically.
Ideal Time
The right time to perform pranayama is early in the morning on an empty stomach. Do not eat a lot of food while doing the breathing exercises as it reduces the effectiveness of your session.
In case, you do not have time in the morning, do not worry. Whenever you are ready for a session, make sure your stomach is empty and clear from any waste products. If you want to practice pranayama during the afternoon or evening, take a break of at least three to four hours post a meal. For tea or snacks or fruits, take a break of 45 minutes and 15 minutes after you drinking water.
Wield The Mighty Power Meditation And Pranayama To Battle Your Woes Of Life
Pranayama enhances deep concentration and calms your mind. It is a gift you can give to yourself daily. Spending at least 10-15 minutes with yourself will have outstanding benefits in every sphere of your life. The after-effects of a meditation and pranayama session is “pure bliss”. No wonder you will always see people who regularly meditate fresh and happy, come what may.
No one can control life and the sudden jolts it gives us once in a while. Some people in response take recourse to addiction like smoking, drinking, drugs etc. The result, as we all know, is disastrous not only for them but for their families as well. Substance abuse makes the situation worse and pulls down everything with you.
The wise, on the other hand, embrace the flow of life with powerful weapons like meditation and pranayama. They become less “reactive” and more “responsive” in a practical way. Its great to be around such people as their aura of warmth, security and solace is so contagious that you feel like being around them forever. In fact, if you have a friend or family member who meditates regularly, you are indeed a blessed soul!
Learn The Right Way To Meditate – Better Late Than Never
If you want to join this “happy brigade of blissful souls” and be an inspiring presence to those around you, start meditating today. Here are some tips to help you get started-
- Sit in a peaceful and clean place (keep your mobile and computer away)
- Wear comfortable and loose clothes
- Ask your family members not to disturb you for some time.
- To create the perfect ambience, light up some incense or aroma oil
- Keep the lights dim if indoors.
- Keep your back straight and maintain a good posture. Do not slouch
- Take some initial deep breaths to focus your mind to get rid of random thoughts
- Begin your session and practice for at least 10 to 15 minutes.
Explore different types of pranayama to know which one suits you the best. Learn from genuine sources and practice under the guidance of a master or teacher before you start doing it on your own.
Dedicate a fixed time daily for the practice, if you can.
Tips for beginners
Practice the Om Chant three times to begin. Inhale deeply and while exhaling release the “Om” sound slowly. Do this for three times. You will be surprised to find how this simple chant powerfully makes your mind still. You can begin your pranayama session after the Om Chant and experience pure bliss once you are over.
Never rush your meditation and pranayama sessions. Stay calm and practice at your own pace. Dedicate just 15 minutes to yourself if you are super busy person. These 15 minutes are enough to focus to mitigate negative patterns and thoughts for the rest of the day. Moreover, you will feel mentally and physically better to take life as it comes.
All the best!
