The Full Yogic Breath is at the core of yoga practice. When you learn to breath from your deep belly instead of your chest you increase your lung capacity, increase circulation, send more oxygen to the brain and reduce stress and tension quickly and effectively. Duration: 3.5 min

The Full Yogic Breath with Retention is a slightly more advanced pranayama; retaining the breath increases the strength of the lungs, brings more oxygen to the bloodstream allowing for deeper breathing. In addition, this breath brings further awareness of the three chambers of the breath – the lower abdomen, the ribcage and the upper lungs.

Benefits: reduced tension, increased lung capacity and circulation, improves mental performance and encourages focus

Contraindications: Pranayama should be avoided if you have asthma (unless instructed by your doctor) or any bronchial infection. You may resume your pranayama practice when you are healthy.

This breath should first be performed under the guidance of a qualified instructor – our videos do provide qualified instruction but should you have any concerns, consult a live instructor or contact us directly.

Teacher: Kavita Maharaj