Now sītkārī: one should make the sound ‘sīt’ with the mouth and exhale only through the nose. With this practice, one becomes like a second Kāmadeva.

This verse introduces sītkārī, a cooling prāṇāyāma technique. The sound “sīt” is produced by inhaling through clenched teeth or with lips forming a smile, creating a distinctive hissing. The exhalation is performed through the nose (ghrāṇena).

The comparison with Kāmadeva — the god of love, equivalent to Eros or Cupid — is intriguing. Commentators explain that this practice confers physical beauty, personal magnetism, and attractiveness. The cooling of the body produces a radiant complexion and bright eyes.

This reference to Kāmadeva may also indicate control over sexual energies. The cooling of sītkārī calms the fire of passion, transforming it into ojas (refined vitality). The practitioner acquires attractiveness without being dominated by desires.