Yoga Breathing Techniques

Posted on December 10, 2007 in Yoga Techniques

Yoga breathing techniques are called as ‘Pranayama.’ Pranayama is one of the five principles of yoga. It gives countless benefits to both your body and mind. Yoga consists of many yoga breathing techniques. Here are some basic techniques of yoga breathing.

Yoga Breathing Techniques

Abdominal Breath –This technique is also called as “Diaphramatic Breath” or “Natural Breath.” It allows one to breathe deeply into the lungs, using the diaphragm. Begins to reset our patterns from shallow chest breathing to deep, healthy, belly breathing.

Dirgha Pranayama - This technique is also called as “Yogic Breath” or “Three-part breath” or “Complete Breath.” It purges the body of carbon dioxide, oxygenates the blood, and promotes relaxation. It completely fills our lungs with oxygen. It expands and stretches the lungs gently by increasing lung capacity. It brings a higher level of oxygen into the blood stream.

Ujjayi Pranayama - This technique is also called as “Ocean Sounding” or “Victorious Breath.” The sound created by this breath has been described as a “soft hissing sound” or a “gentle snore.” It increases body heat, the sound calms and focuses the mind, allowing you to relax more deeply.

Nadi Shodhana – This technique is also called as “Sweet Breath” or “Channel Purification Breath” or “Alternate Nostril Breath.” It’s often used to alleviate anxiety, headaches, and/or fatigue. It brings balance to the right and left hemispheres of the brain.

Kapalabhati - This technique is also called as “Skull Polishing Breath.” It increases circulation, energizes the body, brings a high level of oxygen into the blood stream.

Breath of Fire - This technique is also called as “Bellows Breathing.” It strengthens chest and diaphragm, loosens spine, stretches lungs, and controls the breath at a different level.

Analoma Veloma – This is an Advanced Breathing Technique for experienced meditators and yogis who already have an established breathing practice. It brings one to a deep, contemplative state of mind, and to master over the physical breath.

Basic guidelines for yoga breathing techniques:

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