Breathing is the core of yoga, connecting body, mind, and spirit. Simple breathing techniques can transform your yoga experience by improving focus, relaxation, and body awareness. In this blog, we’ll cover some key breathing techniques that can elevate your practice and help you feel more centred.
1. Ocean Breath
Ocean Breath, also called Victorious Breath, is a calming and energising technique. It involves breathing through the nose while slightly constricting the back of the throat to create a gentle, wave-like sound.
- How to do it:
Sit comfortably or start in a yoga pose. Inhale deeply through your nose while constricting your throat. As you exhale, maintain the gentle throat constriction to create a soothing sound. - Benefits:
This breath helps regulate your breath during yoga, enhances mental focus, and promotes relaxation.
2. Alternate Nostril Breathing
Alternate Nostril Breathing is a balancing technique that helps clear energy pathways and enhances focus.
- How to do it:
Sit with a straight spine. Close your right nostril with your thumb and inhale through the left nostril. Close your left nostril and exhale through the right nostril. Inhale through the right, then switch nostrils again to exhale through the left. Continue alternating. - Benefits:
This technique balances your brain’s hemispheres, reduces stress, and improves mental clarity.
3. Skull Shining Breath
Skull Shining Breath is an energising technique that uses short, forceful exhalations to clear the mind and boost energy.
- How to do it:
Sit in a comfortable position. Inhale deeply, then forcefully exhale through your nose while pulling your belly in. Let each inhalation happen naturally between exhalations. Continue for 30 seconds to 1 minute. - Benefits:
It energises your body, improves digestion, and clears the mind.
4. Cooling Breath
Cooling Breath is a soothing technique that helps calm the mind and body, making it great for post-yoga relaxation.
- How to do it:
Roll your tongue into a tube or purse your lips if you can’t roll your tongue. Inhale deeply through the tube or lips, and exhale slowly through your nose. - Benefits:
Cooling Breath reduces stress, cools the body, and promotes a sense of calm.
5. Bee Breath
Bee Breath is a relaxing technique that involves making a soft humming sound during exhalation, promoting calm and focus.
- How to do it:
Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and inhale deeply. As you exhale, hum softly with your mouth closed, focusing on the vibration. - Benefits:
Bee Breath helps reduce anxiety, calms the mind, and promotes deeper concentration.
Why Breathing Matters in Yoga
Mindful breathing enhances your yoga practice by creating a deeper connection between your body and mind. These breathing techniques improve your focus, help you relax, and support a more mindful and intentional practice.
Ready to Try? Start practising one breathing technique at a time and incorporate it into your yoga routine. You’ll soon notice a more relaxed, focused, and balanced practice.
