Pra = moving, Na = always, Prana = energy, or life force, Yama = to restrain or control

Big on Breath

In yoga, we’re big on breathing. Really breathing. None of this shallow, chest- or throat-breath most of us stick to throughout the day. Long, deep inhales that fill our lungs, our chest, and sometimes our belly with oxygen-boosting, deeply energizing breath. Long deep exhales that truly eliminate stale air and calm us right down. Ahhhh. We call breathing exercises pranayama.

Besides the western science-approved nervous system-balancing bonus of breathing yogically, conscious, controlled breathing is a powerful way to tap into our life force, or innate energy (aka prana).

In the Beginning

We start with pranayama because it’s essential to asana, or physical postures. Yogic breathing helps us get the most out of our practice on the yoga mat - and every other moment of life, in fact. When we consciously breathe deeply, we balance our nervous system, bring ourselves into a state of relaxed awareness, calm our mind, become present, and, best of all, begin to tap into that energy that otherwise just sparks randomly through our being. When we combine the breath with asana, we begin to tap into that energy in areas we normally wouldn’t activate it: our fingertips, our toes, our deepest core - even our armpits.

Long, Deep Yogic Breath

Try this exercise anytime, anywhere, and—minus the arms and legs positioning—with asana. Inspired by yoga teacher Max Strom.

Step One: Stand in horse stance, with your feet wider than your hips, your knees bent, and your leg muscles engaged.

Step Two: Bring your hands to either side of your rib cage.

Step Three: Strengthen your core by drawing your belly button in.

Step Four: Inhale deeply, enough to feel your rib cage move outward on both sides, towards your hands. Exhale and feel your rib cage move back in.

Step Five: Keep this up for at least five minutes.

In five minutes, you’ll notice you feel more energized and calmer. Please share with us: what makes you feel more energized and calmer?