Pranayama (Clinical Somatic Breathwork)
in Bengaluru
Pranayama is the Yogic science of breath control, used clinically as a profound somatic therapy. By consciously regulating inhalation, retention, and exhalation, we directly manipulate the autonomic nervous system. Specific techniques (like Nadi Shodhana or Bhramari) are prescribed to rapidly lower cortisol, stimulate the vagus nerve (shifting the body into parasympathetic "rest and digest" mode), and release emotional trauma trapped in the physical body.
Clinical Benefits
- Rapidly lowers cortisol and shifts the body out of "fight or flight"
- Directly stimulates the vagus nerve to reduce chronic anxiety
- Improves lung capacity and cellular oxygenation
- Releases deep-seated somatic trauma from the nervous system
Clinical Procedure
1. Preparation (Purvakarma)
- • The patient is seated comfortably in a quiet, ventilated room.
- • The physician assesses the patient’s current Dosha imbalance and pulse.
2. Main Action (Pradhana Karma)
Guided by an expert therapist, the patient performs specific breathing protocols. For anxiety, Anulom Vilom (alternate nostril breathing) and Bhramari (humming bee breath) are heavily utilized to physically vibrate and calm the cranial nerves.
3. Post-Therapy (Paschatkarma)
- • A period of silent observation (Dhyana) or Shavasana.
- • Patient is advised to notice the shift in their physical tension.
Patient FAQs
Is this just deep breathing?
No. Clinical Pranayama involves specific ratios of inhalation to exhalation and physical locks (Bandhas) that mechanically affect the vagus nerve and blood pressure, making it a highly targeted medical intervention.
Can it help with PTSD?
Yes, because trauma is often stored in the nervous system as disrupted breathing patterns. Restoring rhythmic breathing is a primary pathway to releasing somatic trauma.
Protocol Details
Primary Indications
Contraindications
- Active severe psychosis or schizophrenia (without strict supervision)
- Acute asthma attacks (during the attack)
- Severe cardiac disease (retention/Kumbhaka is strictly avoided)