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The Importance of Pranayama, Yoga Breathing Control

Breath, life and energy are intrinsically connected and yogis have a single word for all three of them – prana. Pranayama, where Breath is controlled, increases vitality and mental focus, and expands consciousness.
Breath acts as a bridge to our nervous system and by exploring pranayama practices we can observe how deeply it is connected to the mind. Just as our breathing alters depending on our mood, our psychological state can be altered by changes in our breath. Conscious breathing brings oxygen and energy to the cells and enhances all cellular processes. It’s a fantastic source of energy. It’s simple: when we breathe better we feel better.

Techniques and Benefits of Pranayama in our Yoga Classes in Milton Keynes

Our classes focus on this important and often overlooked yoga practice at the start of each class; also incorporating pranayama technique in postures and flowing movements throughout the class:
 
Nadi Suddhi Pranayama, Alternate Nostril Breathing
– Nadi Suddhi is a simple breathing technique that brings immediate balance to the mind.
Sama Vritti Pranayama, Equal Breath
– this exercise helps you release stress and come back to base. It develops good awareness of the breath and, by fully involving the mind, it is a good concentration exercise.
Ujjayi Pranayama, Warming Breath – This practice is very energising. Use ‘Warming Breath’ breathing throughout your asana practice (yoga postures).
Shitali Pranayama (Sheetali), Cooling Breath
– Reduce stress through Shitali Pranayama. Cooling Breath purifies your blood and rejuvenates your body, removes the excess heat in the body to further cool your body by reducing anxiety, fear and depression.
Viloma Pranayama, Breathing Against the Flow
– Listening inwardly to the sound of our own breath is deeply restorative. This practice calms the emotions. It relieves anger or anxiety because it reconnects us to the nurturing rhythmic pulsation within our own being. Regular practice instantly increases our sense of well-being.
Bhramari Pranayama, Humming Bee Breath
–This pranayama exercise develops conscious breathing and the ability to use the lungs fully. It is revitalising. As you fill the lungs in three sections, visualise filling a glass of water. First the bottom part fills,then the middle, and then it fills up to the brim.