Health & Fitness
As summer heats up, there’s no better time to bring intentional breathwork into your classes, and your own practice. In this episode, I share two powerful and accessible cooling pranayamas: Sheetali and Sheetkari. These ancient practices offer immediate relief from physical and emotional heat, making them perfect for summer classes, outdoor yoga, or anytime your nervous system needs calming. If you’re a yoga teacher who wants to move beyond asana and bring more depth to your teaching, this is your go-to breathwork mini-guide.Episode Highlights:How pranayama can be used seasonally, particularly to balance summer’s fiery pitta energyThe historical and scriptural roots of Sheetali and Sheetkari pranayamasHow to practice Sheetali (tongue-rolled cooling breath) safely and effectivelySheetali’s physical and energetic benefits, including digestion, inflammation, and parasympathetic activationContraindications for both practices, including low blood pressure, respiratory issues, pollution, and cold weatherHow to teach Sheetali in a class: timing, cueing, and integrating with asana and savasanaIntroduction to Sheetkari (hissing breath) and why it’s more accessible than Sheetali for many studentsHow to practice Sheetkari (hissing breath) safely and effectivelyThe sensory, auditory, and physiological benefits of Sheetkari for mental calm and emotional regulationUse cases for both techniques: end of a class, restorative yoga, long workshops, hot flashes, and even hikesA reminder to always practice first before teaching, so you can teach from experience, not just theoryJoin our mailing listFind all the resources mentioned in this episodeConnect with us on Instagram