Pranayama & Breath Techniques Flashcards

Which of the following best describes 'Ujjayi' breath?

Answer: Ocean-sounding breath created by slightly constricting the glottis

Ujjayi ('victorious breath') produces an ocean-like sound by gently constricting the back of the throat during both inhale and exhale.

In Kundalini Yoga, the '4-part breath' divides inhalation into four equal sniffs. What is this technique called?

Answer: Segmented Breath

Segmented Breath breaks the inhale or exhale into equal parts (sniffs or puffs) to regulate energy flow.

Which pranayama is most directly associated with stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system?

Answer: Long Deep Breathing with extended exhale

Prolonging the exhale activates the vagus nerve and shifts the autonomic nervous system toward parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) dominance.

What does 'Kevala Kumbhaka' refer to in advanced pranayama?

Answer: Spontaneous, effortless breath suspension arising naturally in meditation

Kevala Kumbhaka is the spontaneous cessation of breath that can arise naturally in deep meditative states, considered a high attainment.

A student feels tingling in the hands and light-headedness after Breath of Fire. The teacher should first instruct them to:

Answer: Slow down or stop and return to normal breathing

Tingling and dizziness indicate possible hyperventilation; the student should slow or stop and normalize their breathing before continuing.

In pranayama texts, 'rechaka' refers to:

Answer: Exhalation

The three phases of breath are puraka (inhale), kumbhaka (retention), and rechaka (exhale).

Chandra Bhedana pranayama is used therapeutically to:

Answer: Cool the system and reduce excess heat or anger

Chandra Bhedana inhales through the left (moon/ida) nostril to invoke cooling, calming lunar energy.