By Kimaya Singh, CYT 500
Pranayama - It’s just breathing,
right? How much harm could a little more breathing possibly do?
You would be surprised. In some cases,
we regard breathing simply as means to an end. It keeps us alive, and that is
both the beginning and the end of its purpose.
On the other side of the coin, breath is a way of living. Neglecting one's breathing means a very
contracted and painful existence.
There are certain ways to breathe
that are very beneficial to the aspiring Yogi, and also those that will cause
harm. It is vital that you teach and practice the former and not the latter. Below are three ways to practice
proper breathing.
Let it be
The first and safest step is to just
learn about your natural breathing rhythm. Focus on your natural inhalations and
let them become longer. Do the same thing on your exhalation. Practice drawing
in the breath for fifteen seconds, then letting it release for the same amount
of time. Practice this until you are comfortable with it.
Nostril Breathing
There are many ways to do this, but
it is best to just begin simply.
Close your eyes and inhale, allowing
your lungs to completely fill. Then, take your thumb and block one nostril.
Exhale. Repeat ten times. Then, do the same with the left nostril.
Bhastrika Pranayama
Also known as Bellows Breath, this
one is more advanced and should only be done when the basic breathing has been
mastered.
Sit comfortably and inhale while at
the same time slowly raising your arms overhead. The completion of the
inhalation should coincide with your arms becoming fully stretched.
Then, begin to exhale and form your
hands into fists, stopping when you reach your shoulders. Complete your exhale.
Repeat five times.
These three techniques will lay out a
basic foundation. And like a foundation, it has to be built upon, yet can never
be replaced. Always remember to practice the breath in a safe manner, never
rushing through a session. Students want to hurry, so they can get to the Asana
part of the practice. Remind them that breath is what makes Asana possible.
© Copyright – Aura Wellness
Center – Publications Division
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