Sequence Of Pranayams

by Dharminder
(India)

Hello. I am a 52 yrs old man getting ayurvedic treatment for prostate enlargement. My treatment includes medicines and pranayams.

I was advised by my doctor (Baba Ramdev's clinic) to do the following pranayams -
1) Bhastrika
2) Kapalbhati
3) Bahya
4) Anulom/Vilom

I also have a back problem (mild spina bifida). I did the above routine for 2 days and noticed back pain so I stopped. I then read online that Kapalbhati is not recommended for people with high BP, heart problems and spinal disorders.
So I want to skip Kapalbhati and practise the other 3 pranayams.

My query is
a) Can I skip Kapalbhati?
b) Do all pranayams have to be done in sequence or they can be done independently ?

Thanks in advance.

P.S. I do not have any BP or heart or any other disorders.

Regards
Dharminder


Answer

Hello Dharminder

As you have a back problem, you can skip doing kapalabhati as it may strain your back. You can do other three pranayama.

Generally, a teacher can teach pranayama in a particular sequence. Baba Ramdev advises to do seven pranayama in a particular sequence. In case you are told to do a particular pranayama sequence by your yoga teacher, you can follow it. However, pranayama can be done independently. For example a person can do only anulom vilom pranayama or rhythmic breathing. It all depend on which all pranayama you can do based on your health and time available to you.

Hope this helps.
Daljit