Do these 10 stretches before Pranayama for maximum results

"An amazing way to get the best out of your Pranayama practice is to move your spine in all directions before you start. This opens up the body and warms up the spine in a simple way," said yoga trainer Mansi Gandhi

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Try these effective stretches before your pranayama practice. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Yoga and breathwork are said to be extremely beneficial for one’s overall health. And one such practice is that of the Pranayama, a breathing exercise.

ALSO READ | Doctor recommends this pranayam for COVID patients to keep lungs healthy

The control over breath during Pranayama can be enhanced by some simple stretches that help open up the body, as per yoga trainer Mansi Gandhi.

Here’s what Gandhi said.

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“An amazing way to get the best out of your Pranayama practice is to move your spine in all directions before you start. This opens up the body and warms up the spine in a simple way. Try it!”

ALSO READ | Try these yoga asanas and breathing techniques for healthy lungs

She showed how to do some easy stretches while sitting down before Pranayama.

Up and down neck stretch

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Sit in cross-legged pose. Slowly, take the neck up and down.

Side-to-side stretch

Slowly, take the neck from left to right and vice-versa.

Lateral stretch

Bend the neck on each side

Rotate shoulders

Rotate the shoulders inwards and outwards

Lateral body stretch on each side

Bend the body to either sides.

Twist

In the cross-legged position, keep the right hand over the left knee and twist to see a point on the back. Repeat on the other side.

Bend forward

Join the hands together. Bend forward keeping the spine straight.

Open chest and close

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Stretch the arms and make the clap position to open the chest and close.

Here are some additional tips to consider before doing Pranayama

*Avoid loud sounds during breathing. Keep the breath rhythmic and steady.
*Avoid breathing through the mouth, unless specifically asked to.
*Pranayama should not be practiced immediately after meals. However, one can do Pranayama at least three hours after meals.
*Always do breathwork under guidance.

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