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Writer's pictureDinesh Rajput

Agnisar Kriya Benefits and Precautions

Agnisar Kriya is a yogic cleansing and energizing technique that stimulates the digestive fire (Agni in Sanskrit) and purifies the digestive organs. The word "Agnisar" is derived from two Sanskrit words: "Agni" meaning "fire" and "Sar" meaning "essence." This practice involves the rapid contraction and expansion of the abdominal muscles, helping to strengthen the digestive system, tone the abdominal region, and balance internal energy.



Agnisar Kriya
Agnisar Kriya

Agnisar Kriya is part of the Shatkarmas (six purification practices) in Hatha Yoga, and it is particularly effective for increasing digestive strength, improving metabolism, and enhancing vitality.


How to Perform Agnisar Kriya

  1. Starting Position

    • Sit comfortably, steady like Padmasana (Lotus Pose) or Vajrasana (Thunderbolt Pose).

    • Alternatively, it can be performed while standing with feet shoulder-width apart and bending slightly forward, placing your hands on your thighs.


  2. Prepare for the Kriya

    • Take a deep breath in, and then exhale completely, emptying your lungs entirely.

    • Hold the breath out (this is called Bahya Kumbhaka—holding the breath after exhalation).


  3. Abdominal Pumping

    • While holding your breath out, rapidly contract and release your abdominal muscles, pulling your belly button in toward your spine and then relaxing it repeatedly.

    • Keep the breath held out during the process and continue pumping the abdomen in and out as many times as you can comfortably manage.


  4. Release

    • Once you can no longer hold your breath, stop the abdominal pumping, relax, and gently inhale.

    • Rest for a few normal breaths before repeating.


  5. Repeat

    • Perform 3-5 rounds of Agnisar Kriya, taking short breaks between rounds to allow normal breathing.


Benefits of Agnisar Kriya

  • Improves Digestion: Stimulates and strengthens the digestive system by increasing the "digestive fire" (Agni), which helps in breaking down food more efficiently and preventing issues like indigestion, gas, and bloating.

  • Cleanses and Detoxifies: Agnisar Kriya helps in flushing out toxins from the digestive tract and internal organs.

  • Tones Abdominal Muscles: The constant contraction and release of the abdomen tones the abdominal muscles, helping to create a stronger and firmer core.

  • Regulates Prana: It stimulates and balances the body's energy flow (Prana), particularly in the Manipura Chakra (the energy center located near the navel).

  • Boosts Metabolism: This practice increases the metabolic rate, aiding in weight management and fat loss.

  • Energizes the Body: By activating the digestive fire, it boosts overall vitality and energy levels, promoting alertness and focus.

  • Supports Liver and Pancreas Function: Regular practice of Agnisar Kriya stimulates the liver, pancreas, and other digestive organs, helping improve their function.


Precautions

  • Empty Stomach: Practice Agnisar Kriya on an empty stomach, preferably in the morning or at least 4-6 hours after a meal.

  • Avoid Overexertion: If you feel dizzy or uncomfortable, stop immediately and return to normal breathing.

  • Health Conditions: People with conditions like high blood pressure, hernia, heart disease, ulcers, or serious digestive issues should avoid Agnisar Kriya or consult a doctor or yoga teacher before practicing.

  • Pregnancy: Agnisar Kriya should not be practiced during pregnancy.


Agnisar Kriya is a powerful yet simple technique that can be incorporated into a regular yoga practice to enhance digestive health, energy, and vitality.


Thanks for reading!

योग ऋषिका




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