6 Tips For Finding Your Yogic Breath

It is said that without breath there is no yoga. Breath is a crucial part of yoga and meditation. Without it you can’t fully take advantage of your practice. Here are 6 tips we have found that help with finding and keeping your yogic breath. Ahhhhh

1. Be Aware

Start by being aware of your natural breath. Observe your breathing: is it short and shallow, or long and deep?

2. Inhale Through Your Nose

Fill your abdomen and notice how it expands like a balloon.  Once your belly is full, allow the breath to expand into your rib cage, widening the gap between your ribs.

3. Exhale Top Down 

As you exhale, release the air from top to bottom, from your rib cage down to your abdomen.

4. Focus on Temperature

Notice the coolness of the inhalation, and warmness of the exhalation.

5. Even Breaths

Focus on taking even inhalations and exhalations.

6. Use Your Nose

Try ujjayi (nose) breathing. This simple breathing simultaneously builds energy and aids in relaxation. To use ujjayi breath you both inhale and exhale through the nose. The key is to constrict the back of your throat as you exhale. Also known as ocean breathing, when done properly, your breath should sound like the waves of an ocean.

Do you have any other tips for finding your yogic breath? Share them with us in the comments below. 🙂