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Breathing Exercises for Yoga
Pranayama is half of yoga, and most classes leave little time for it. Practising the breath on its own makes the poses easier: a steady ujjayi keeps a flow paced, and a long exhale is what lets you go deeper into a stretch.
How to use them
Equal Breathing and Three-Part Breath (Dirga) are the foundation, practised daily. Ujjayi (Ocean Breath) is for during practice, and Lion's Breath releases tension mid-session. Alternate Nostril and Bhramari (Humming Bee) suit the start or end of a practice, and Sitali cools you after a hot class.
New to this? Start with Equal Breathing: Simple and balancing. Match your inhale and exhale length.
Every day: build the base
Train daily, away from the action.
- Equal Breathing — Simple and balancing. Match your inhale and exhale length.
- Bhramari (Humming Bee) — Hum on a long exhale. The vibration quiets a racing mind.
- Three-Part Breath (Dirga) — Fill belly, ribs, then chest. The classic full yogic breath.
- Alternate Nostril — Ancient yogic technique for balance and clarity.
In training
Breath mechanics while you move.
- Lion's Breath — Forceful exhale releasing tension from face and chest.
- Ujjayi (Ocean Breath) — Soft throat constriction creates an oceanic sound.
Recovery
Bring the system back down.
- Calming Breath — Extended exhale activates the parasympathetic nervous system.
- Sitali (Cooling Breath) — Inhale through a curled tongue to cool body and temper.
Get the app
dubchi is free in the browser at dubchi.com (it installs as an app and works offline) and on Android, on Google Play. No account is needed to practise.
Other sports
Breathing Exercises for Pilates · Breathing Exercises for Running · Breathing Exercises for Trail Running · Breathing Exercises for Cycling · Breathing Exercises for Swimming · Breathing Exercises for Triathlon · Breathing Exercises for Rowing · Breathing Exercises for Freediving · all sports
General information about breathing practices, not medical or coaching advice.