Power breathing is a collection of breathing techniques that range from deep breathing, quick inhalations and Pranayama yoga breathing. Utilizing the full lungs in a diaphragmatic breathing method, power breathing commonly accompanies practices such as meditation, singing, yoga and cardiovascular exercise routines. While some techniques utilize strong, forceful inhalations and exhalations to clean the respiratory cavities and invigorate the heartbeat, many power breathing techniques are very relaxing and can be performed anywhere.
Step 1
Lay out the yoga mat or pillow in a comfortable area and set a timer for your intended power breathing session. Sit down on the mat or pillow so that your knees gently enter a cross-legged sitting position, and make your spine and back as erect as possible.
Step 2
Relax your belly so that it completely rests over your hips. Breathe in deeply and slowly so that your lower stomach expands as your lungs fill. While many individuals go about their day breathing into their chest, or upper-lungs, this diaphragmatic power breathing technique allows your lungs to be completely filled with air. Count your inhales and exhales, increasing your length of both until you can comfortably count to 15 on both your inhale and exhale.
Step 3
Attempt the Charger Breath by performing a sudden inhale through your nostrils. Breathe in strong and fiercely so that you lungs are immediately filled with air and cannot hold another drop of air. Exhale your breath out your nostrils with equal force without holding your breath between your inhale and exhale. This is a very strong power breathing technique that requires full dedication to make sure you fill and empty your lungs completely. Perform the Charger Breath for 1 to 2 minutes before taking a break to prevent the likelihood of dizziness or lightheadedness.
Step 4
Do a Pranayama power breathing technique by standing on your yoga mat or floor with your fingers tightly interlocked. Place your hands so that the knuckles rest just under your chin with your elbows pointing directly to the floor side-by-side. Inhale strongly for 6 solid seconds while lifting your elbows until they point directly towards the ceiling in a shoulder stretch that increases your lung capacity. Hold the breath for 1 second before gently tilting your head back and extending your elbows forward until they touch in the air at a level parallel to your heart. Make sure all of the air has been pressed from your lungs in 6 seconds as you exhale.
Step 5
Practice the cardiovascular power breathing technique while engaged in your regular exercise activity, such as jogging or bicycling. Once your heart rate has safely risen to your target heart rate, adopt a steady ongoing power breathing cycle of inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your pursed lips. Synchronize your breathing so that it flows effortlessly alongside your workout. This power breathing technique can both increase your lung capacity and provide renewed vigor.
Tips and Warnings
- Always wear loose clothing when practicing diaphragmatic breathing to allow your stomach to fully expand as you breathe.
- If you experience any pain, nausea, dizziness or other discomfort, stop your breathing regimen and contact your doctor immediately. Contact your physician if you have a past lung injury or respiratory-related issue that may prevent you from completing the power breathing technique.
Things You'll Need
- Yoga mat or pillow
- Timer (optional)
