Breathing is fundamental for life, but for most of us, because it is automatic, we tend to take it for granted. In yoga practice, breathing is not just a bodily function that is done mindlessly, but rather it is the very essence or life force that supports the whole person. Ujjayii is a form of pranayama, or breathing control, that ancient yogis created to help clear and cleanse the body and mind, one of the many benefits of the practice. It is often referred to as the "sounding" breath because of the "ah" sound that is created by constricting the back of the throat.
Mindfulness
Ujjayi breathing is often used during asana practice as well as during meditation. One of the benefits of this technique is increased mental awareness or mindfulness. Focusing on the actual breath and giving it a "voice" of it's own, helps enhance focus and clear the mind of confusion or negative thinking.
Internal Warm-up
During ujjayi breathing, the breath is long and continuous and the belly is contracted inward, allowing the lungs to fill and empty completely. The friction of the air passing through the lungs and throat generates internal heat. Some yogis like to encourage their students to think of ujjayi breathing as a massage for their internal organs. As the core becomes warm from the inside, the body becomes prepared for the asana practice.
Relaxation
Beyond focusing the mind and increasing concentration, the practice of ujjayi breathing enhances a state of calm and relaxation. Awareness increases, internal heat is created and with each exhalation you allow your mind to be calm and your body to release tension and stress. So the end result of ujjayi breathing is a cleared, calm and relaxed state of being.
Additional Benefits
According to Julie T. Lusk, the author of "Yoga Meditations," ujjayi breathing creates concentration while it develops stamina and endurance. She goes on to say that additional benefits include diminished pain from headaches and relief of sinus pressure. Other benefits may include getting rid of phlegm and strengthening the nervous and digestive systems.
References
- YogaSite: Pranayama
- "Yoga Meditations"; Julie T. Lusk; 2005
- Abc-of-Yoga: Breathing Exercise (Pranayama)
