Why Is Breathing Important In Yoga?

Breathing In Yoga

Breathing is an essential part of our yoga practice. Yoga itself is described as a synchronization of breath with movement, and is how yoga earned its nickname of “Moving Meditation.” 

When a yoga teacher is very intentional about how each pose is synchronized with the breath, you come out of your class feeling at ease and more connected to yourself and others. 

So… Why is breath important? 

• Breathing is what connects the mind, body and spirit. 
• Our breath is our life-force energy, meaning that we need it to live. 
• Our breath has the power to regulate our nervous system, increase our energy, and almost immediately curve nervousness.

Here are just some of the benefits. 

• Decreases stress
• Boost Immunity
• Improves Digestion
• Enhances Cognitive Performance
• Improves Mindfulness

In yoga, Pranayama is the practice of breath control and includes various types of breathing techniques.  

Here’s a breathing exercise you can try now.  

• Sit up straight in a chair.  
• Plant both feet flat on the ground.  
• Close your mouth and begin breathing through your nose.  
• Inhale for counts 1….2…..3……..4…..  
• Exhale for counts ….4…..3…..2…….1. 
• Feel the air rise from the top of your chest to the bottom of your stomach with each inhale and exhale. 
• Repeat 10 times