Breathing In Harmony

At Twisted Grit Yoga, we believe that yoga is movement. It is a holistic practice that allows us to be playful and curious, move through life with more joy, and prevent stagnancy in our lives. It helps keep our minds focused and calm; our bodies supple, loved and vibrant; and our hearts open.  

Over the last couple of blog posts, we’ve been sharing about the eight limbs of yoga, concentrating on the ones most visible at our studio and core to everyone’s individual yoga practices. While Asana (poses) and Dhyana (meditation) are a large part of what we do, no less important is the limb of Pranayama. 

Breathing is fundamental to life. In the practice of yoga, breathwork, or Pranayama, also is a key component. The term is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Prana’ meaning ‘life force,’ and ‘Ayama’ translating to ‘extension.’ Pranayama takes us beyond basic breathing and moves us into the conscious awareness of breath as the life force that both energizes and relaxes the body. It allows us to tune in and control our breath for the good of our body.

That might seem difficult, but breathwork isn’t exclusive to seasoned yogis. It’s accessible to all and can be practiced anytime, anywhere. When done correctly, it can yield profound benefits such as reduced stress, improved focus, and increased energy. It can also help us relax, reduce pain or anxiety, and  improve blood pressure, 

There are several breathwork options that might be used, depending on the type of class and the health and needs of the person practicing. And, your practice can grow at its own pace.

Two common ones found in our classes are Sama Vritti Pranayama (equal breathing, or box breathing) and Ujjayi Pranayama (ocean breathing). Both of these are great places to start if you are new to breathwork. And, you can always come back to them if a different method of breathwork is being used in class and it doesn’t suit you. You can even try these out at home before trying at the studio if it feels more comfortable. 

To practice Sama Vritti Pranayama, sit in a comfortable position, close your eyes, and start to notice your natural breath. Gradually, begin to inhale for a count of four, then exhale for a count of four, keeping your breath smooth and even. Stay here if this feels most comfortable, or, progress by breathing in for four counts, holding for four counts, exhaling for four counts, and holding for four counts. Practice this daily for a few minutes and gradually increase as it feels comfortable. You can adjust this to a lower count of two or three and work your way up to four if it feels easier, and you can adapt this equal breathing during yoga poses or meditation to what feels good for you at the time.

To practice Ujjayi Pranayama, sit, stand or lay in a comfortable spot, keeping your spine straight. Take a long, slow, deep breath in through your nose. Then, exhale slowly through your mouth making a sweeping “ha” sound like the rush of the ocean as it swishes across the shore. This is used in many of our classes during both poses and meditation.

As you get more comfortable with the basics, there are plenty of other breathwork options available to deepen your practice. Some pranayamas are designed to energize and provide a sense of openness and clarity, others help to achieve a sense of calm, induce a meditative state, or help us move past anger, anxiety or stress. Our instructors are all able to help you explore this as you feel you are ready.

Pranayama isn’t just for class, though! It  is useful both on and off the mat. At its heart, Pranayama is simply becoming aware of your breath. Whether you’re stuck in traffic, waiting in line at the grocery store, or sitting at your desk, take a moment to focus on your breath. Feel the inhalation and exhalation, the rise and fall of your chest, and the sensation of the breath entering and leaving your nostrils. This simple practice can help bring a sense of serenity and focus amidst daily chaos.

During yoga or meditation classes, breathwork helps to connect the mind, body, and spirit. It serves as a bridge between the external and internal, grounding us in the present moment. In postures, your breath can guide your movement and deepen your practice, helping you to move with intention and awareness.

It’s pretty neat that our breath can do so much for us, right? It’s powerful on its own as a life-sustaining function, but when harnessed through breathwork, or Pranayama, it becomes a powerful tool that’s available to all of us to help harmonize and rejuvenate our body, mind and spirit. When we take our breath from automatic to intentional, every breath is a step towards wellness, mindfulness, and tranquility.

As you learn to breathe in harmony with your unique body, we look forward to seeing where Pranayama takes you.