STRENGTH AND BREATH

Respiration is a process in which, through the inspiration of air, we transfer oxygen to the blood (hematosis), which transports it, together with the circulatory system, to all tissues, producing in the cells of these, a gaseous exchange that converts oxygen into carbon dioxide. The latter is expelled through expiration by the reverse process.

The connection between respiration, the circulatory system, our tissues (muscles, joints, ligaments, bones, viscera, fasciae, skin, nerves…), and each and every one of our cells, including the brain cells, is evident. That is, the breath connects with everything physical that is in us. In yoga, conscious breathing is essential to reach a state of complete relaxation, therefore there are different ways of breathing.

Sukha purvaK is simple breathing. Empty your lungs completely and take a deep breath. Hold your breath for eight seconds by squeezing your chin. Raise your head and breathe out deeply for eight seconds.

Anuloma viloma is alternate breathing. Helps balance energy. Rest the index finger of the right hand between the eyebrows and the thumb closing the right nostril. Breathe in from the left side. Hold on for five seconds. Close the left nostril with the right ring finger, open the right and exhale from that side. Hold out of air for five seconds. Now breathe in from the right, keeping the left nostril closed, hold the air and breathe out from the left, closing the right.

Ujijayi is sound breathing or yoga nose breathing. Relaxes and balances the nervous system. Sitting comfortably, inhale and exhale through your nose in an abdominal way, making noise with your throat.

Bramari is known to buzz breathing. It produces a vibration similar to when OM is pronounced and helps calm tension. Sitting in a deep breath for seven seconds and exhale, opening your lips a little so that a buzzing sound is heard. Hold the expiration for 14 seconds.

Kumbahka is the held or square breath. Very beneficial gas exchange and circulatory changes occur. Breathe in for 7 seconds. Hold the air for 7 seconds. Exhale in another 7 and hold without air for the last 7 seconds. Repeat the cycle at least 10 times. As you become a more experienced yogi, you can increase the retention and breathing time.

These are difficult times our immune system is under attack and we are faced with new types of external elements.

Let's protect ourselves!

Breathing is where the body gets the oxygen it needs, expands your lungs, and takes a deep breath!