Breathing Exercises For Weight Loss Programs

Pranayama is the Sanskrit (ancient Indian language of yoga) word for the breathing exercises of yoga. Pranayama is translated from Sanskrit as "breath control" from the Sanskrit words "prana" (meaning energy) and "yama" (meaning control). With practice, pranayama breathing exercises can help you gain power over your mind and body, which can help you control cravings that lead to weight gain.

Deep Abdominal Breathing

Deep abdominal breathing helps you decrease the amount of stress you are experiencing and brings greater mindfulness to your body, which can help control your cravings and overeating. You can start this exercise by lying on your back on the floor. Put your hands on your lower abdomen, right above your navel. Inhale through your nose, and expand your belly out as much as you can. Exhale as you contract your lower torso to push the air from your system. Put your hands on the sides of your rib cage. Inhale as you lift your lower abdomen, observing the air expanding your ribs outward. Exhale and repeat this for a few breaths. Place your hands on your upper chest. Breathe into your hands by allowing your upper chest to fill up with oxygen. Exhale and repeat this for a few breaths.

Ujjayi Breathing

Ujjayi breathing is commonly practiced while you do yoga in classes. It soothes your nervous system and helps to deepen your breath while you exercise, which helps you lose weight more easily. It is created by toning your epiglottis at the back of your throat to make a whispered noise that sounds like "ha." To do this, inhale through your nose while you slightly restrict the muscles at the back of your throat. Exhale through your nose while making the same noise. Try to keep your breath duration even and smooth throughout your breathing.

Kapalabhati

Kapalabhati helps you decrease your body weight and fat by improving your digestive power and your metabolism. To do this breathing exercise, start by sitting in a comfortable position. Relax your shoulders as you take a few deep breaths from your abdomen. Start by taking a deep inhale. Contract your abdominal muscles quickly as you take short, rapid exhalations through your nose. The inhale is passive, so do not inhale forcefully. Repeat this quick pumping for between 30 to 50 times.