In yoga, breathing is an essential part of every pose. Breath is called "prana," and its purpose is to create a mindful connection between the conscious and unconscious minds. Learning the right way to breathe in yoga can help promote focus, stamina and relaxation, according to the American Medical Student Association. A yoga teacher will usually cue you to breathe as you're moving through poses, usually to exhale as you're changing positions, but it's important to breathe steadily throughout yoga exercises. Avoid holding your breath.
Step 1
Sit comfortably on a flat surface, such as the floor, in a cross-legged position. Put one hand on your chest, near your heart, and the other hand on your abdomen.
Step 2
Breathe out, pulling your abdomen in toward your spine. Push the air out through your mouth rather than through your nose.
Step 3
Breathe in through your nose to filter and warm the air, letting your abdomen swell against your hand.
Step 4
Hold the breath for a count of 7, or for as long as you comfortably can.
Step 5
Slowly exhale through your mouth, contracting your abdominal muscles as you breathe out so that all the air is pushed out of your lungs. You should exhale for about a count of 8.
Tips and Warnings
- Once you become comfortable with yoga breathing, you don't need to keep your hands on your chest and abdomen to make sure you're fully inhaling and exhaling. The hand on your chest should stay still whether you are breathing in or out. Yoga breathing should focus on deep, abdominal breathing.
- Check with your doctor before trying any new exercise routine.
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