Plavini Pranayama: Steps, Benefits, and Precautions

Plavini Pranayama: Steps, Benefits, and Precautions

Introduction

Plavini Pranayama is a rare and advanced yogic breathing technique where the practitioner swallows air and retains it in the stomach, similar to the way a fish or turtle inflates itself. The word Plavini comes from the Sanskrit root Plavana, meaning “to float”, as this practice is believed to make the body light enough to float on water.

Plavini Pranayama is considered a highly mystical practice, aiding in detoxification, digestion, and even deep states of meditation. In ancient texts like the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, it is said that yogis could sustain themselves without food for days by mastering this pranayama.

How to Do Plavini Pranayama

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1️⃣ Sit in a comfortable meditative posture (Padmasana or Sukhasana) with a straight spine.
2️⃣ Take a deep breath through the nose and then exhale completely to empty the lungs.
3️⃣ Inhale again deeply through the mouth, swallowing small amounts of air as if drinking water.
4️⃣ Fill your stomach with air, expanding it without straining.
5️⃣ Hold the air inside the stomach for as long as comfortable (without discomfort).
6️⃣ Release the air slowly through burping or controlled exhalation through the nose.
7️⃣ Repeat this process 5–10 times, gradually increasing retention time.

📌 Best practiced in the morning on an empty stomach for optimal benefits.

Benefits of Plavini Pranayama

✔️ Enhances Digestive Health – Reduces acidity, bloating, and indigestion.
✔️ Detoxifies the Body – Helps cleanse the intestines and improve gut health.
✔️ Boosts Pranic Energy – Increases life force energy, enhancing overall vitality.
✔️ Promotes Deep Meditation – Helps in breath control and stillness, advancing spiritual practices.
✔️ Aids in Weight Management – Improves metabolism and supports fasting practices.
✔️ Strengthens Respiratory System – Improves lung capacity and oxygen intake.
✔️ Develops Mind-Body Control – Enhances awareness and mastery over physiological functions.

Precautions & Contraindications

⚠️ Not for beginners – Should be learned under expert guidance to avoid discomfort.
⚠️ Avoid if you have stomach issues – Conditions like ulcers, hernia, or severe acidity may worsen.
⚠️ Not recommended during pregnancy – The air retention may cause pressure on the abdomen.
⚠️ Do not force breath retention – Only hold air for as long as comfortable.
⚠️ Practice in a calm and quiet environment – Avoid distractions to maintain focus.

Conclusion

Plavini Pranayama is an advanced yogic breathwork technique with powerful effects on digestion, detoxification, and spiritual growth. While its benefits are profound, it requires proper guidance and dedicated practice to master.