Our breath is a central and vital part of our physical and mental health. In ancient times, systems like Ayurveda and Pranayama were a natural part of a daily routine to keep health in check. As times changed, these cures fell off the therapeutic grid. Until today—with the breathwork trend rising in popularity, more and more practitioners are interested in incorporating ancient knowledge into daily routines. SOMA Breath is one of the school reintroducing Pranayam knowledge to the world. The global school was created and visualized by Niraj Naik. The visionary’s story is the main reason driving him to keep advocating for these ancient practices. Naik suffered an autoimmune disease due to the accumulation of intense stress, hectic work routine and unbalanced diet. It was only through his quest to seek a natural cure for his illness that he discovered the unique effects of conscious rhythmic breathing and how the harmony between the mind and the body can create a path to healing. He discovered that by gaining control of his breathing, he was able to destress and reach an elevated state of living.
Niraj Naik combined soothing beats, Pranayama, and modern science to create techniques taught in SOMA Breath school. The school is thriving globally on both online and offline platforms. As the pandemic is causing an increase in stress-related illnesses, SOMA Breathwork is proving to be an effective measure to tackle different types of chronic and emotional stress-related health issues. As stated by Niraj in his SOMA Breath curriculum: “People that are chronically stressed tend to hold on to their air. When you are stressed, you gasp for air and hold it in. That’s why focusing on conscious breathing can be so important to managing your stress levels”
To reduce stress, SOMA Breath school suggests Rechaka Pranayama or “prolonged exhalation” in Sanskrit to relax and relieve symptoms related to stress, depression, and anxiety. Furthermore, the method includes using uplifting and soothing music to inspire happiness and good energy in one’s body. All this helps in gaining mental clarity and stress reduction.
To try SOMA breathwork to destress, we have provided a little procedure as approved by Niraj Naik:
1. Find a comfortable spot and sit with your back straight.
2. Relax your muscles and Inhale through your nose.
3. Purse your lips together and slowly and gently exhale through your mouth.
4. As you exhale, visualize a wave of relaxation flowing from the top of your head to the soles of your feet.
5. After exhaling, try to hold your breath for a few seconds, or as long as you can before inhaling again
6. Repeat the process several times a day for 5-10 minutes.
We hope this breathwork exercise enables you to achieve stress reduction and that you would be able to add this into your daily routine as recommended by the founder of SOMA Breath Inc, Niraj Naik.