Gheraṇḍa enumerates ten types of prāṇāyāma. The first four are: Sūryabhedana (solar penetration), Ujjāyī (victory), Sītkārī (hissing), and Śītalī (cooling).

Each has specific effects on the energetic system. Some heat, others cool; some stimulate, others calm.

The practitioner should learn all to have a complete repertoire, but use the appropriate ones according to need and constitution.