Keep Fit Yoga

There are a number of ways to practice breath control in Yoga but in this exercise we’re going to talk about one of the seven breathing techniques of Pranayama – Abdominal Breathing. As one of the most common, and powerful, techniques in Yoga we’ll want to “clear the air” before we get started.

Let’s follow some basic preparations:

1. Blow your nose to clear your nostrils as much as possible.
2. For optimal conditions be sure you practice in room-temperature setting. Also, avoid being near toxic smells such as chemicals or smoke as you will be taking deeper breaths than normal and the air around you needs to be clean.
3. Prepare to breath solely through your nostrils.
4. The goal is to take control of your breathing. You are trying to achieve fluidity of your breath. However, if at any time your breath becomes choppy or uneven then simply stop the exercise and let your breathing pattern return to its normal state.
5. Because you will be experiencing more oxygen to the brain through this breathing technique, be aware that you may become dizzy, faint or light headed. If so, stop the technique and return to your normal breathing pattern before recommencing. You can increase your level of intensity over time.
6. Consult your doctor before undertaking breathing techniques, particularly if you suffer from asthma, a heart condition, or any other ailment that may require prior medical supervision.

Abdominal Breath is also known as Diaphragmatic Breath or Natural Breath.

How to perform Abdominal Breathing –

Lying flat on your back assume the Savasana pose where your arms are by your side with palms facing the sky. Become conscious of your breathing which should be slow and deep. Also, become aware of your abdomen slowly rising as you inhale and falling as you exhale.

Remember to keep your mouth closed and breath through your nostrils the whole time. Can you feel each deep breath circulating throughout your body? A good way to help you visualize air coming in and going out is to imagine your belly rises up as it fills with air and falls down as it releases the air. No air actually enters your stomach, rather this technique helps you to focus on your breathing which is required in Yoga.

While performing these slow, deep breathing movements, relax your facial muscles and your throat. Shoulders should be relieved of tension and at the same time relax your stomach and abdominal muscles. This will help calm your digestive organs.

The goal is to calm your entire body. Breathe deeply into your abdomen toward your pelvis, and focus on smooth, rhythmic, and fluid movements.

Abdominal Breathing helps to reduce stress and tension by calming the mind and relaxing your nervous system. By focusing on your breathing techniques you are “in the moment” giving your mind a rest from the normal stresses and worries of the day. Also, deeper breaths mean more oxygen to your brain and red blood cells while exhaling gets rid of carbon dioxide and other wasteful gases.