Pranayama Breathing Techniques

Service Description

What are Pranayama breathing techniques? 'Pranayama' is a Sanskrit word that translates to 'control of breath'. 'Prana' means breath or life force and 'ayama' means to control. So, Pranayama is a set of practices to control the 'prana' within your body through breathing techniques. Pranayama breathing techniques originate around the same time as yoga and meditation – in India, around 5000 BC. They are recorded within ancient texts from around this time, such as the Yoga Sutras, and these texts mention pranayama as a foundational aspect of yoga practice. Our breath affects our parasympathetic nervous system. When our bodies perceive danger, the ‘fight or flight’ hormones kick in, which causes us to take quick, shallow breaths. We can calm our bodies back towards ‘rest and digest’ mode by consciously slowing and deepening the breath. Once you experience the effects of pranayama in yoga, you’ll find yourself much more aware of your breath in your daily life. In stressful situations, for instance, you’ll notice how your breath speeds up and you can choose to slow it down to reassert a sense of calm. Pranayama can join yoga asana and meditation as a valuable part of your wellness toolbox. Your Yoga Teacher will take you through the following Pranayama breathing techniques: Ujjayi (Ocean breath or victorious breath) Diaphragmatic breathing technique (sitting) Dirga Pranayama (‘Three Part Breath’) Kapalabhati (Skull shining breath) Simhasana (Lion’s breath) Nadi Shodhana (Alternate nostril breathing) Uddiyana/Nauli Kriya Bhramari Pranayama 'Humming Bee Breath' Benefits of pranayama breathing techniques include: Increases lung capacity Reduces stress & anxiety Improve cardiovascular health Improve sleep Increases mindfulness Helps to flush out toxins from the digestive system Pranayama helps to remove dis-ease from the body