If we know the many benefits of yoga on the body, we know less that a simple breathing exercise can reduce body temperature. Decoding with a yoga therapist doctor.
The days in the middle of a heat wave are oppressive. While many cool off with showers and cold drinks when it’s hot, yoga enthusiasts cool down their body temperature by practicing pranayama (a deep breathing technique) called sheetali.
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A fresher mouth
Exercise “acts a bit like a natural air conditioner. A small air tube is created by rolling the tongue lengthwise or crosswise with the tip of the tongue folded inwards. By breathing through the mouth, air enters through this tube, which increases saliva,” explains Jocelyn Borel-Kuhner, yoga therapist at the René-Dubeau Hospital Center (Pontoise, Île-de-France). Instantly the oral cavity becomes fresher and restored.
Shitali promises to be ideal for avoiding heat stroke. “On entering the mouth, the inhaled air is projected onto the upper palate, itself in contact with the nasal fossa and the back of the mouth. This air will indirectly stimulate and cool the central nuclei of the brain, the thermostat of the body’s thermoregulation. This refreshed area regulates our body heat better, making us sweat, and this significantly saves us from headaches,” says the doctor and yoga therapist.
Better stress management
In addition to lowering the temperature, shitali also helps to manage stress better, like all yoga breathing. “This pranayama affects the so-called ‘parasympathetic’ nervous system.” (responsible for slowing down body functions, editor’s note), which reduces heat stress,” explains Jocelyn Borrell-Kuner. Obviously, our heart beats less and our body conserves energy to better cope with the heat.
7 keys to doing yoga.
For a hot flush, take at least 5 to 10 deep breaths
Jocelyne Borel-Kuhner, MD and Yoga Therapist
In practice?
If you want shitali to be effective, it’s best to learn the technique first and practice 7 to 10 breaths with a teacher or certified yoga practitioner before doing it alone at home or in the office. The doctor and the yoga therapist conclude. “During a heat wave or very hot weather, you should do at least 5 to 10 puffs and at least 5 to 10 puffs a day” to really feel the effects.
Source: Le Figaro
