The Balancing Breath Excercise

Breath, or pranayama, is one of the most important pillars of a yoga practice. In fact, I would argue to say it’s the most important. Breath moves us through postures and stokes and soothes us. Breath can work to slow down the heart rate, warm up the body, and soothe the mind.

Let’s practice…(read the following in its entirety then give it a try OR have someone read it to you)

Inhale for a count of three, pause at the top of your inhale, then exhale for a count of three. Make these breaths long, slow, full inhales. Empty out totally and completely in your exhales. Do this for 3–4 rounds. Inhale — 2–3…pause…Exhale — 2–3. Now, lengthen your breath. Inhale and exhale for a count of four in the same fashion. Close your eyes and focus completely on your breath and your count. As you breathe in, KNOW that you are breathing in. As you breathe out, KNOW that you are breathing out. Be present for your breathwork practice as that will translate to being present in your life. Lengthen your breath even more now. Breathe in for a count of five, retain your breath, then exhale for a count of five. Close your eyes and feel the space you’ve created. Feel your torso expand in all directions during your inhales and empty completely as you exhale. Practice this counted breath for 2–3 rounds then return to your natural breath.