Pranayama

​When our breath flows smoothly in, out and through our body, we experience balanced energy and health.

What is Pranayama?

• ​"Prana" is life force energy. "Yama" is to restrain or control.
• Pranayama is the Sanskrit word for the control or regulation of the breath.
• Pranayama is incredibly powerful but can be harmful when improperly executed.
• Different types of pranayama balance different things in our physical, mental and emotional bodies.​​ For example, some pranayama practices create a cooling effect on the body, others a warming or heating effect.

There are many types of Pranayama, or yogic breathing practices, all with a myriad of benefits.

Some popular traditional practices are:  

• Ujjayi (Victorious Breath) creates an anchor for awareness and cleanses the channels.
• Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing) creates balance and calmness in your mind and body.
• Shitali (Cooling Breath) cools and calms your nervous system and can be especially helpful during the summer or any time you're feeling overheated.
• Bhastrika (Bellows Breath) helps to energize your body and clear your mind.
• Kapalabhati (Skull Shining Breath) will help to purify, rejuvenate and invigorate your mind and body.​

Please note:

​Pranayama is powerful and can create imbalance when performed incorrectly. Make sure to proceed slowly. It is best to work with a qualified practitioner to learn correct methods and to determine which styles are best for you.

For those who are new to pranayama, I always recommend starting with Nadi Shodhana, as it is a very balancing pranayama technique. 

Learn more about the benefits of breathing exercises here.