Why Is Breathing Important In Yoga & How to Do It Right?
Breathing is one of the most fundamental aspects of yoga because breath is our life force, yet it is often taken for granted. In yoga, breathing (known as Pranayama in Sanskrit) takes on a whole new level of importance. Proper breathing techniques, controlled breathing enhance your practice, connect your mind and body, and ultimately elevate your overall well-being.
In this article, we'll explore why breathing is important in yoga, its benefits, and how you can incorporate the right breathing techniques into your practice to deepen your connection with your body and mind.
Why is breathing Essential in Yoga?
The Bridge Between Body and Mind: Yoga is about harmonising the body and mind, and breath is the key to achieving this connection.When you focus on breathing and properly drawing air into and expelling it from your lungs, you’ll find that you’ll have improved your lung capacity. That will make it easier to breathe deeply and fully. During this, your body gets more oxygen, which helps to enhance your connection more deeply to your physical and mental state.
Improves Focus and Concentration : Yoga is as much a mental practice as it is physical. By focusing on your breath, you clear away distractions and tune in to your body’s sensations. When you focus on your breath, you shift your attention from your worries and anxieties, promoting relaxation and peace of mind.
Increases Oxygen Flow and Energy : Deep breathing during yoga increases the amount of oxygen your body takes in, improving blood circulation and boosting energy levels.This is particularly helpful for intense yoga forms like Vinyasa or Ashtanga, where sustained energy is needed for continuous movement. By making sure your muscles get enough oxygen, you can practice for extended periods of time without getting tired. Furthermore, the autonomic nervous system—which controls involuntary processes like blood pressure, digestion, and heart rate—is balanced by some breathing exercises. This enhances bodily balance and supports both mental and physical well-being.
Activates the Parasympathetic Nervous System: Conscious breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for promoting relaxation and calming the body.Conscious breathing is when you intentionally focus on your breath, becoming aware of each inhale and exhale. This is particularly important in restorative yoga or meditation practices. Slow, deep breaths signal your body to reduce stress hormones like cortisol, helping you feel calm and relaxed. It’s one of the reasons yoga is often recommended for stress management and emotional well-being.
Enhances Flexibility and Movement: When you synchronise your breath with movement, your muscles are better oxygenated and have more ease of motion. Breathing correctly facilitates easier, more fluid movement, which deepens stretches and increases flexibility. Whether you're moving through sun salutations or holding a challenging pose, breathing into tight areas allows your body to release tension and move more freely.Everyone may utilise this simple-to-use tool to enhance their quality of life and overall health.
Some other benefits of yogic breathing include:
- Reduced stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Boosts Immunity
- Improves Focus and Mental Clarity
- Increased calm and relaxation.
- Lowers cortisol in the body.
- Stabilizes and lowers blood pressure.
- Improves core strength.
- Supports Better Sleep
- Facilitates Digestion
- Expels carbon dioxide and increases oxygen.
- Encourages a Deeper Mind-Body Connection
How do I start a yoga breathing practice?
How to breathe correctly in yoga can make all the difference. Here are some fundamental breathing techniques to incorporate into your practice.
Ujjayi Breathing (Ocean Breath) This is the most common breathing technique in yoga. To practice Ujjayi breathing:
- Inhale deeply through your nose, filling your lungs.
- Exhale slowly and evenly through your nose while constricting the back of your throat (as if you’re fogging up a mirror).
- You should hear a soft "ocean" sound with both the inhale and exhale.
Ujjayi breathing helps you maintain rhythm and focus, especially during flowing sequences like Vinyasa.
Diaphragmatic breathing (Belly breathing): :This technique focuses on expanding the diaphragm, the muscle located just below your lungs. It’s calming and helps with oxygen intake.
- Place one hand on your belly and the other on your chest.
- Inhale deeply via your nose, extending your belly while maintaining your chest relatively still.
- Exhale fully, drawing your tummy back toward your spine.
Diaphragmatic breathing is frequently utilised in slower-paced yoga poses and meditations because it is an excellent technique for centering yourself.
Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing) Nadi Shodhana is a pranayama technique used to regulate energy levels and calm the mind. Here’s how to put it into practice :
- Sit comfortably and close your right nostril with your thumb.
- Take a deep breath through your left nostril.
- Close your left nose with your ring finger, then release your thumb and exhale through your right nostril.
- Inhale through your right nostril, close it with your thumb, and exhale through your left nostril.
- Continue exhaling forcefully with quick, sharp breaths while your inhalations happen passively.
This energizing breath is great for boosting vitality but should be practiced with caution by beginners or those with respiratory issues.
The Bottom Line on Yogic Breathing
Breathing is the foundation of yoga, connecting the mind and body while enhancing your overall practice. Techniques like Ujjayi, Diaphragmatic Breathing, and Nadi Shodhana help improve focus, reduce stress, and increase flexibility. Incorporating mindful breathwork into your yoga routine deepens the experience, promoting both physical and mental well-being, and bringing calm and balance into everyday life.
