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Acid Reflux

Alternate Nostril Breathing – Beat Acid Reflux By Reducing Stress

Jul 17, 2017

‘Nadi’ refers to a channel through which energy flows within our body. A literal translation of Nadi Suddhi means, ‘a purification of the invisible energy channels.’ This ancient breathing technique also helps in balancing the breath, thereby reducing stress levels, which can be a contributor to acid reflux. It is recommended to practice Nadi Shuddhi Pranayam daily.

Steps for Nadi Shuddhi Technique

Step 1: Sit in Padmasana (lotus position.) Keep your spine erect and your head and neck straight. Close your eyes.

Step 2: Relax the muscles of your body and become aware of your breath. At no point during the exercise, you should control your breath or force it.

Step 3: Place your left hand on your knee while touching your thumb and index finger together. Lift your right hand, let your fingers stretch and bend your index and your middle fingers and place them on the palm of your hand.

Step 4: Close your right nostril with your right thumb and slowly inhale through your left nostril.

Step 5: Close your left nostril with your right ring finger, release your right nostril and exhale from it.

Step 6: Now inhale through your right nostril, close it with your right thumb and exhale from your left nostril. This completes one round of the exercise.

Step 7: Repeat the whole process at least 5 or 6 times.

Additional Benefits Of Nadi Shuddhi Pranayam

Apart from helping with acid reflux, this breathing technique offers several other benefits.

  • Purifies blood and improves circulation, resulting in improved functioning of other organs of the body
  • Strengthens the lungs and increases overall lung capacity
  • Treats disorders of the respiratory system
  • Increases energy levels
  • Increases metabolism rate
  • Reduces stress
  • Improves mental health
  • Improves appetite
  • Strengthens the immune system

A note of caution

  • There should be no forced or strained breathing during the exercise, as this can prove harmful to the body.
  • If you suffer from high blood pressure, you should avoid Nadi Shuddi Pranayam