Sheetkari (Hissing Breath) — Classical Pranayama & Kumbhaka

Install Kriyasya on iOS

Install Kriyasya directly to your home screen with zero App Store download:

Tap the Share button ⎋ at the bottom of Safari.
Scroll down and tap Add to Home Screen ⊞.
Tap Add in the top-right corner.

Wellness Disclaimer / अस्वीकरण: The yogic practices, mudras, and breathing techniques presented here are rooted in classical tradition and intended solely for educational, wellness, and holistic lifestyle purposes. They do not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified physician or healthcare specialist before starting any physical regimen, particularly if you have pre-existing medical conditions, chronic illnesses, or are pregnant. Practice mindfully within your body's comfortable limits.

Scriptural Pramana

Hatha Yoga Pradipika 2.54

सीत्कारां कुर्यात्पूरे मुखेनैव विधारयेत् । पूर्ववत्कुम्भकेनैव शनकैर्घ्राणरेचनम् ॥

sītkārāṁ kuryāt pūre mukhenaiva vidhārayet | pūrvavat kumbhakenaiva śanakair ghrāṇa-recanam ||

Make the 'seet' hissing sound through closed teeth while inhaling through the mouth; hold in Kumbhaka and exhale slowly through nostrils.

Classical Kumbhaka Ratios (Inhale : Hold : Exhale)

Hissing Calm (1:0:1:0)

Inhale: 4s • Hold: 0s • Exhale: 4s

Step-by-Step Practice Method

Sit comfortably with spine tall
Gently press the upper and lower teeth together
Part the lips so the teeth are exposed
Inhale slowly through the teeth making a hissing 'see' sound
Close the mouth and exhale slowly through the nose
Repeat for 8-12 rounds

Physiological & Mental Benefits

Mind & Autonomic Tone

Calms and cools the mind, reduces stress, anger, and tension

Body & Vitality

Cools the body, soothes gums and oral tissues, reduces thirst and hunger

Precautions & Contraindications

Low Blood Pressure
Cold Congestion Severe
Asthma
Sensitive Teeth

Included in Yoga World Pass

Classical 4-Phase Kumbhaka Pacer & Studio Audio

Practice with precise classical ratios (Puraka : Antar : Rechaka : Bahya), living visual breath spheres, and Fish Audio studio voice guidance.

Open Guided Practice Session ↗