Pranayama | Breathing Practices
A personal practice is one of the pillars of Yoga in the tradition of Sri Krishnamacharya and Desikachar. I created the resources below by drawing up their teachings to support and inspire your practice. Enjoy – and feel free to contact me with questions on these items or with inquires on other resources.
In Yoga, our life energy, or our vital energy, is known as prana. In many Yoga classes, prana is often referred to as breath. Ancient Yogic texts note that the breath is one manifestation of prana. Prana is further defined as the principle of life and consciousness, the breath of life of all beings, and the primary source of nourishment to our systems [1].
Pranayama is one of the 8 Limbs of Yoga; it is a means to stretch or prolong one’s prana, or breath control. Pranayama is the extension of our vital energy and it moves this energy throughout the body. On a practical level, pranayama is a form of conscious breathing used to increase, regulate, and channel the flow of prana. Therapeutically, pranayama practices can relax, invigorate, or balance the mind.
Pranayama should be practiced under the guidance of an experienced teacher. These handouts are not intended to replace this important relationship but instead to supplement your home practice.
In Yoga, our life energy, or our vital energy, is known as prana. In many Yoga classes, prana is often referred to as breath. Ancient Yogic texts note that the breath is one manifestation of prana. Prana is further defined as the principle of life and consciousness, the breath of life of all beings, and the primary source of nourishment to our systems [1].
Pranayama is one of the 8 Limbs of Yoga; it is a means to stretch or prolong one’s prana, or breath control. Pranayama is the extension of our vital energy and it moves this energy throughout the body. On a practical level, pranayama is a form of conscious breathing used to increase, regulate, and channel the flow of prana. Therapeutically, pranayama practices can relax, invigorate, or balance the mind.
Pranayama should be practiced under the guidance of an experienced teacher. These handouts are not intended to replace this important relationship but instead to supplement your home practice.
For children and teens
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For adults
This breathing exercise promotes focus and relaxation by extending the length of the exhale.
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This breathing practice promotes focus and relaxation by doubling the length of the exhale to the inhale.
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Chandra bhedana is calming and cooling breathing practice.
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This breathing practice balances the mind and clears blocked energy.
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Bee Breath is a fun way to focus on yourself and feel relaxed.
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Want to feel full of peace and joy? Then Peace Breath is an excellent practice - and it's lots of fun to learn words in a new language!
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