all techniques
beginner · balance & heart

cooling breath

A cooling breath for hot moments and gentle settling.

traditional name: sitali pranayama

A cooling inhale through the tongue followed by a soft nose exhale.

coolingcalm
start session →
breathing pattern
44
8s per cycle
difficultybeginner
categorybalance & heart
studies1 peer-reviewed
cycle8s
why practice it

The unusual mouth shape slows the inhale and makes the breath feel intentional.

background

Sitali is a traditional pranayama practice associated with cooling and settling the body.

gentle safety note

Skip the tongue curl if it feels awkward. Breathe gently through pursed lips instead.

these notes summarize research related to controlled breathing. individual results vary, so keep the practice comfortable and stop if you feel unwell.

Effects of voluntary slow breathing on heart rate and heart rate variability: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews · 2022
  • Slow breathing may support body temperature regulation and calm

  • Consistent reduction in heart rate across studies

  • Enhanced heart rate variability and autonomic balance

  • Effective for stress management and emotional regulation