Why it is essential to learn pranayama (Breathing Practices) under proper guidance?

“The COVID-19 pandemic brought into sharp focus the importance of our lungs and the act of breathing. Many people were unaware of proper breathing techniques and the benefits of pranayama until the virus highlighted the connection between respiratory health and overall well-being. As we recognized how COVID-19 weakened the immune system and directly affected the lungs, there was a surge in interest in breathing exercises to improve lung capacity. While many people turned to online resources to learn pranayama, it’s crucial to practice these techniques under the guidance of a qualified instructor.”

Learning pranayama (yogic breathing techniques) from proper guidance is essential for several reasons:

1.     Safety: Improper pranayama can lead to adverse effects, especially for individuals with certain health conditions. A qualified instructor can guide you through the techniques safely and effectively.

2.     Correct Form: Pranayama involves precise control of breath, diaphragm, and abdominal muscles. A teacher can ensure you're performing the techniques correctly to maximize benefits and avoid injury.

3.     Personalized Instruction: Each individual's body and needs are unique. A good instructor can tailor pranayama practices to your specific circumstances, ensuring optimal results.

4.     Mind-Body Connection: Pranayama is a mind-body practice. A qualified teacher can help you develop the awareness and focus needed to fully experience the benefits.

5.     Avoid Common Mistakes: Beginners often make mistakes in pranayama, which can hinder progress or even cause discomfort. A teacher can help you identify and correct these errors.

Most Important thing one should keep in mind that pranayama has lot of benefits , but some pranayama has contraindications (some limitations) also , that has to be taken into considerations before the practices.