Breath of Joy Pranayama

This quick, refreshing pranayama instantly lifts your spirits and clears your mind of negative thoughts and tension. The first portion of this practice is a breathing exercise, followed by a Zen inspired relaxation sequence using small stone to help focus your concentration (you may also use a crystal, bead or other small sacred object). Be sure to chose your object before you begin this practice, so you have it easily at hand. Duration: 8 min

Benefits: release of tension, clarity of mind, fresh perspective and renewed sense of well being

Contraindications: if you are prone to dizziness and/or begin to feel light-headed simply let yourself fall forward into Standing Forward Bend and ease yourself in to Child’s Pose and rest.

Teacher: Andrea MacDonald