By Dr. Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, YACEP
Yoga breathing exercises are commonly referred to as pranayama techniques. Pranayama, the discipline of breath control, is the fourth of the Eight Limbs of Patanjali’s Yoga and is used to control prana (life energy) – also known as the vital life force.
Purpose of Pranayama
Although there are many types of pranayama, the ultimate goal of all of these techniques is to improve the mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional state of one’s health. While breathing is an automatic process, it can be regulated to impact health positively.
Three Classic Types of Yoga Breathing Exercises for Beginners
1. Anuloma Viloma:
Also known as Alternate Nostril Breathing, is done by inhaling through one nostril, holding the breath, and then releasing it through the other nostril. This method balances the right and left sides of the brain, improving logical thinking and creativity.
Some Yogis claim this is the most effective technique for calming the mind and nervous system. Modern science has confirmed that the brain’s electrical activity is more active on the opposite side of the congested nostril.
2. Kapalabhati:
Also known as Skull Shining Breath, is considered a type of pranayama and is also a cleansing technique (kriya), which helps to relieve blockages in the airways of the nasal passages and chest. Derived from two words meaning “skull” and “light,” this practice uses deep abdominal breathing.
The objective is to purify the lungs, remove toxins from the blood and lymph, and improve digestion. It also prepares the body for meditation and increases alertness. However, it should be practiced in moderation because it may cause one to be light-headed and is not recommended for high blood pressure.
3. Bhramari:
The Sanskrit word for “bumble bee” is a breath technique that creates a humming sound during exhalations. The fingers and thumbs are used to shut off sight and outside sounds, which helps one focus on the internal sound that resembles a bumble bee.
Its vibratory nature calms the body and lengthens the breath, lowering blood pressure and reducing stress and fatigue. The technique can be practiced by anyone, including pregnant women, children, and the elderly. While doing the exercise, the mind is focused on the unity of the individual consciousness with the divine, and the technique is beneficial to meditation and deep sleep.
Benefits
All Yogic breathing exercises require practice; the desired effect is establishing the connection between mind and body. Physical results can be seen in the relief of respiratory illnesses, a reduction in anxiety, detoxification of the immune system, and a general feeling of relaxation and well-being.
© Copyright – Aura Wellness Center – Publications Division
Do you want to become a mindfulness meditation teacher?
Please visit the following link to see our selection of Yoga instructor courses and continuing education courses.
https://aurawellnesscenter.com/store/
Click here to see our online Yoga Nidra teacher training course.
Are you an experienced teacher looking for YACEP credits or continuing education?
Subscribe to Our Newsletter for Special Discounts and New Products
Related Resources
52 Essential Principles of Yoga Philosophy to Deepen your Practice
by Rina Jakubowicz
A Relaxing Way to De-stress, Re-energize, and Find Balance
by: Gail Boorstein Grossman
YOGA: THE PATH TO HOLISTIC HEALTH
by B.K.S. Iyengar
TEACHING YOGA: Essential Foundations and Techniques
By Mark Stephens
Are you interested in how to become a certified hatha yoga teacher? See our selection of affordable yoga instructor training intensive courses.
Introduction to Yoga Breathing Exercises
By Bhavan Kumar, Gopi Rao, and Jenny Park
When you think of yoga, you may picture complicated poses and think it’s not for you. But yoga is much more than that – it’s a holistic practice that includes breathwork, meditation, and mindfulness. And one of the best things about yoga is that it’s accessible to everyone, regardless of fitness level or experience.
Breathing exercises are a fundamental part of yoga. They help to calm the mind, focus attention, and control the breath. This can help manage stress and anxiety. Breathwork is also beneficial for overall health, as it oxygenates the blood and helps to detoxify the body.
If you’re new to yoga or looking to refresh your practice, here are some basic breathing exercises to get you started. Remember to breathe slowly and deeply through the nose, filling up from the abdomen.
The Different Types of Yoga Breathing Exercises
There are many different yoga breathing exercises, each with unique benefits. Here are a few of the most popular techniques:
1. Ujjayi breath: This type of breathing is often used during asana (yoga postures) practice. It involves gently constricting the back of the throat to create an ocean-like sound while inhaling and exhaling. This helps to control the breath and maintain focus during your practice.
2. Alternate nostril breathing: Another popular technique, alternate nostril breathing, can help to calm the mind and ease anxiety. It involves blocking one nostril while inhaling and exhaling through the other, then switching sides.
3. Slow and Deep Breathing: This type of yoga breathing focuses on lengthening and deepening the breath. There are many different pranayama techniques that you can try, but they all involve slowly and evenly inhaling and exhaling through the nose.
4. Breath Retention: Also known as kumbhaka, breath retention is a technique in which you hold your breath briefly after inhaling or exhaling. This can help improve lung capacity and increase focus during yoga. However, extended breath retention is not recommended for students with heart problems or high blood pressure. Consult your physician as a precaution.
5. Kapalabhati Breath: A more advanced type of breathing, kapalabhati involves rapid inhalations and exhalations through the nose with no pause between breaths. This powerful technique can help to cleanse the lungs.
The Benefits of Yoga Breathing Exercises
When you think of yoga, you may picture an upward-facing dog or tree pose. Yoga is much more than just physical postures. Breathwork, or pranayama, is an essential part of the practice.
There are many benefits to practicing yoga breathing exercises. For one, it can help to calm the mind and ease anxiety. Breath work can also improve sleep quality and digestion, boost energy levels, and promote detoxification.
If you’re new to yoga breathing exercises, start with an essential practice: sit in a comfortable position with your spine straight and close your eyes. Begin by taking deep inhales and exhales through the nose. Expand your belly; draw your navel toward your spine on each inhale to release all the air from your lungs. Continue for 5–10 minutes.
As you become more comfortable with this practice, you can experiment with different techniques, such as alternate nostril breathing or breath of fire. Just remember to listen to your body and breathe in a way that feels comfortable for you.
How to do Yoga Breathing Exercises
To do yoga breathing exercises, start by sitting in a comfortable position with your spine straight. Place your hands on your belly, just below your navel. Breathe through your nose, allowing your belly to expand as you inhale. Then, exhale slowly through your mouth. As you exhale, draw your navel toward your spine and press the breath out deep within your lungs. Continue this pattern of breathing for 5-10 minutes.
Tips for doing Yoga Breathing Exercises
Start by finding a comfortable position. You can sit on the floor with your legs crossed or lie on your back. Once you’re comfortable, close your eyes and focus on your breath.
Inhale deeply through your nose, filling up your lungs. As you exhale, imagine the tension and stress leaving your body. Continue breathing deeply and slowly for 10-15 minutes.
Will Yoga Breathing Exercises Improve Meditation?
Yes, yoga breathing exercises can improve meditation. Meditation is a form of relaxation that allows you to focus your attention and quiet your mind. When you meditate, your breathing should be slow and steady. Yoga breathing exercises can help you to control your breath and make it slower and steadier.
Will Yoga Breathing Exercises Improve Poses?
Yes, yoga breathing exercises can improve poses. The reason is that when you breathe correctly, it helps open up the chest and lungs, allowing for a deeper and fuller breath. This full breath then provides more oxygen to the muscles, which can help to improve your strength and flexibility.
Will Yoga Breathing Exercises Improve My Life?
Yoga breathing exercises, also called pranayama, are integral to yoga practice. The word pranayama is derived from two Sanskrit words: prana, meaning life force or breath, and ayama, meaning control or extension.
While many different types of pranayama exercises aim to control the breath somehow, either by lengthening the inhale, exhaling, or holding the breath for a short time. The goal is to help practitioners focus on the breath and develop a deeper awareness of their bodies and minds.
Pranayama is said to have numerous benefits, both physical and mental. Physical benefits may include improved respiratory function and increased lung capacity. Mental benefits may include reduced stress and anxiety levels, improved concentration and focus, and increased feelings of well-being.
Yoga Breathing Exercises for Stress
Yoga breathing exercises, or pranayama, are a great way to help relieve stress. There are many yoga breathing exercises, but the most important thing is to focus on your breath and be aware of your body.
One of the most straightforward yoga breathing exercises is alternate nostril breathing. This can be done by sitting comfortably and using your thumb and index finger to block off your right nostril. Breathe through your left nostril slowly and evenly for a count of four, then close off your left nostril with your ring finger and release your right nostril. Breathe out through your right nostril for a count of eight. Repeat this pattern for several minutes.
Another effective yoga breathing exercise for stress relief is diaphragmatic breathing. This type of breath work helps to massage the internal organs and promote relaxation. Place one hand on your stomach below the navel to do diaphragmatic breathing. As you inhale deeply, allow your stomach to expand into your hand. On the exhale, draw your navel back towards your spine. Repeat this pattern for several minutes.
If you’re looking for something more challenging, try kapalabhati breath work. This type of pranayama involves forceful exhales that help cleanse the lungs and energize the body. To do kapalabhati breath work, sit with a straight spine and relax.
Silent Yoga Breathing Exercises at Work
If you’re looking for a way to relax at work, try some silent yoga breathing exercises. This type of yoga is done without any props or equipment, so it’s perfect for doing in a small space at your desk. Take a few deep breaths and focus on your breath as you exhale and inhale deeply. You can do this yoga breathing exercise for a few minutes or as long as you like.
Conclusion
Yoga breathing exercises are a great way to begin your journey toward health and wellness. These simple yet effective techniques can help improve your physical and mental well-being and provide calming benefits so you can enjoy any part of the day. We hope this article has provided valuable tips for starting with yoga breathing exercises and encouraged you to explore further into yoga practice.
© Copyright – Aura Wellness Center – Publications Division
All Yogic breathing techniques require practice, and the desired effect is to establish the connection between mind and body. Thanks for sharing this valuable article.
The ultimate goal of all of breathing techniques is to improve the mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional state of one’s health. Its really very helpful post, Thanks for sharing.