The power of breath in Yoga

Breathing is a foundational element in any yoga practice. We use our breath to anchor us, to bring us back into the moment, to bring us back into our bodies.

On a physiological level, the breath can also aid our Yoga practice. For example, in any Vinyasa Flow Yoga practice, a breath called Ujjayi is encouraged, which helps carry more oxygen into our lungs and through our body while we are practicing, ultimately helping us to move through our yoga sequence more fluidly.

Ujjayi breathing is fundamentally breathing through the back of our throat, rather than through the nostrils. This switch, from nose to throat, allows us to clear the passage that moves oxygen through our entire body, the breath can move deeper, which will give us more energy as we move. Another benefit of Ujjayi breathing is that it creates heat in our bodies, which aids flexibility and mobility.

To try Ujjayi breathing, first breathe in through the nose as you would normally, and then as you breathe out, open the mouth and make an 'ahh' sound, like you are steaming up a mirror.

Then breathe in through the nose again and this time when you breathe out keep the mouth open for a bit, making the 'ahh' sound but close it half way through, notice, that you feel the breath in the back of the throat and it makes a sound.

When you start to practice Ujjayi breathing regularly, in your Vinyasa Flow Yoga practice, you will start to feel the difference in your energy, both within the practice itself, and after practice. If you want to try Ujjayi in class, book onto a Vinyasa Flow Yoga class now.