Back to the glossary
Methods & Traditions
Sitali and Sitkari
Also known as: Cooling breath
German: Kühlender Atem (Sitali und Sitkari), Kühlende Atmung, Sitali, Sitkari
Two traditional pranayama practices in which the inhale is drawn in through a curled tongue (Sitali) or through slightly parted teeth (Sitkari) and the exhale leaves through the nose. They are traditionally used to feel cooler and calmer. Evidence is limited, and traditional sources advise caution with respiratory conditions or when feeling cold.