Step 1: Defining Pranayama
Pranayama in yoga involves breath regulation techniques. As one of the eight limbs of yoga, it aims to enhance the vital life force (prana) within the body.
Step 2: Categorizing Techniques
- Sitali (A): A cooling pranayama technique. Inhale through a rolled tongue, exhale through the nose. It reduces body heat and calms the mind, thus classifying it as pranayama.
- Bhramari (B): "Bee breath," characterized by a humming sound during exhalation. This promotes relaxation and is a recognized pranayama practice.
- Uddiyana (C): This is an abdominal lock (bandha), not a pranayama. It is utilized in advanced yoga but is not considered a breathing technique.
- Sheetkari (D): Similar to Sitali, this is a cooling breath practice. Inhale through the teeth, exhale through the nose, making it a pranayama technique.
Step 3: Summary
From the provided options, (A) Sitali, (B) Bhramari, and (D) Sheetkari are pranayama techniques. (C) Uddiyana is a bandha, not a pranayama.