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An ancient yogic breathing technique, Sheetkari Pranayama is commonly known as the "hoo-hoo breathing," which is the perfect yoga breathing practice to utilize in controlling hypertension. Like Sheetali but accessible to people with an inability to roll their tongues, it is a practice of breathing with a small mouth opening, keeping a hissing noise, and allowing a cooling effect in the body.

A study conducted on hypertensive individuals last year (2017) found that Sheetali and Sheetkari Pranayamas can significantly decrease systolic blood pressure by an average of 16.2 mm Hg, decrease heart rate, and increase parasympathetic activity and heart rate variability.

Practice of Sheetkari Pranayama:

• Settle in Sukhasana or Padmasana and keep the spine straight and with closed eyes.
• Close your teeth firmly, slightly separating your lips.
• Breathe in deep, pausing between your teeth, making a tender hissing or hissing "see-see."
• Close your mouth and exhale slowly through the nose.
• Take 5-10 minutes per day on an empty stomach.

Cautions: Do NOT take when you have low blood pressure, respiratory problems, or a cold/cough. Do not start without consulting your doctor, especially when under BP medication. A healthy lifestyle, along with regular practice, might help in controlling blood pressure and feeling more calm.