Bollywood actor and fitness icon Malaika Arora has once again inspired her followers by highlighting the power of mindful breathing. In a recent social media post, Malaika shared a calm glimpse from her yoga routine, focusing on pranayama — a core yogic practice that connects the body and the mind through controlled breathing. Her message was simple yet impactful: conscious breathing is an essential form of self-care.
Pranayama, often described as the bridge between physical movement and mental balance, helps regulate the nervous system, improve lung capacity, reduce stress, and enhance focus. Malaika, known for advocating a holistic approach to fitness, listed five breathing techniques that she practices regularly and recommends as “must-do” exercises.
The first is Bhastrika, or bellows breath, which involves forceful inhalation and exhalation to energise the body and improve oxygen flow. This is followed by Kapalbhati, a technique centred on sharp exhalations that is believed to aid digestion, detoxification, and mental clarity.
She also practices Anuloma Viloma, or alternate nostril breathing, a calming exercise known to reduce anxiety and balance the mind. Another key practice is Bhramari, the humming bee breath, where gentle vibrations during exhalation help soothe the nervous system and relieve tension. Completing her routine is Udgeet, a slow breathing technique combined with chanting “Om,” which promotes deep relaxation, mindfulness, and emotional balance.
What makes Malaika Arora’s fitness advice resonate is its simplicity and accessibility. Her post serves as a reminder that wellness does not always require intense workouts, sometimes, it begins with learning how to breathe better. As she emphasises, pranayama is not optional but lies at the very heart of yoga and overall well-being.
