Yoga and breathing: Yogic breathing by Yogalie X Tayrona Yoga

What is Yogic Breath, explained by Magalie, yoga teacher in Annecy

In the practice of yoga, there is an element that supports the asanas (postures), it is Pranayama (the control of the vital force). We have inside the body energy channels that allow this energy Prana to circulate, they are called the Nadis (72,000 in total). By practicing Pranayama, we take control of this energy and therefore of the vital force that connects the body and the mind. We could add years to our life simply by being more aware of our breath.

Exhalation serves to eliminate impurities and release blockages that prevent Prana from flowing freely allowing more space for inhalation.

What is yogic breathing?

A combination of abdominal breathing, thoracic breathing and clavicular breathing. Here we use the belly, chest and throat and activate the diaphragm which is the essential muscle of the respiratory system. This practice increases oxygen intake, calms the mind and consequently reduces stress.

Tips for practicing yogic breathing or three-part breathing:

• Place yourself comfortably on your yoga mat , in a sitting position or lying down position (Savasana)

At first, you can place your hands on your belly to start, then position your hands depending on where your breath is during the practice.

• Breathe in slowly and deeply, inflating your belly, once your abdomen is full continue to breathe into your rib cage and then into your chest
• Continue to inhale to bring the breath up into your collarbones, shoulders and neck. Your breath is calm and continuous.
• Begin to exhale in the opposite direction, first at the collarbone, then into the rib cage and release all the air from the lungs and belly
• Hold your breath for a few seconds at the end of the exhalation.
• Start again!

You can then come and inhale for 6 counts, 2 counts at the level of the belly, 2 counts at the level of the rib cage and 2 counts at the level of the collarbone. Then do the reverse path when exhaling. You can start with 5 to 10 breaths each day and increase up to 10 to 15 minutes per day.

The best times to practice Pranayama exercises are at dawn or just after sunset.

I hope you enjoy this burst of energy! Happy practicing and see you next week.