Pranayama & Breath Techniques Flashcards

What is 'Mula Bandha' and how does it relate to pranayama?

Answer: Root lock at the perineum that seals and directs prana upward

Mula Bandha contracts the perineum and pelvic floor, sealing apana vayu downward and directing combined prana-apana energy up the sushumna.

Which pranayama is traditionally described as 'skull-shining' due to its cleansing effect on the frontal brain?

Answer: Kapalabhati

Kapalabhati ('skull-shining') uses rapid forceful exhales to cleanse the respiratory system and invigorate the frontal brain.

When teaching pranayama to a pregnant student in the second trimester, which practice should be avoided?

Answer: Breath of Fire

Breath of Fire involves intense abdominal pumping and is contraindicated during pregnancy to avoid undue pressure on the uterus.

In the Kundalini Yoga tradition, the ratio 1:4:2 (inhale:hold:exhale) is said to primarily develop:

Answer: Intuition and stillness of mind through extended retention

The 1:4:2 ratio with extended kumbhaka builds pranic capacity, develops concentration, and cultivates a still, intuitive mind.

Bhramari pranayama involves:

Answer: Humming like a bee on the exhale while blocking the ears

Bhramari ('bee breath') creates a humming sound on exhalation, often with fingers sealing the ears, to calm the nervous system.

What is the function of 'Uddiyana Bandha' in advanced pranayama?

Answer: Draws the abdomen up and in after full exhale to massage the organs and lift prana

Uddiyana Bandha is applied after a full exhale — the belly is pulled up and back to lift the diaphragm, massaging abdominal organs and directing energy upward.

In Kundalini Yoga, practicing Long Deep Breathing for 3-11 minutes is said to have which primary benefit?

Answer: Expanding lung capacity and calming the mind within minutes

Sustained Long Deep Breathing enlarges lung capacity, oxygenates the blood, and triggers the relaxation response, calming the mind.