Yoga Is a Breath Practice First and Movement Second

Yoga is often seen as a series of graceful poses, accompanied by soft music and a sense of tranquility. But if you’ve ever struggled to hold a downward-facing dog or found your mind wandering mid-pose, you know it’s more than just stretching. One often-overlooked aspect of yoga is the breath and it can make all the difference in your practice.

Why Breathing Correctly Matters in Yoga

Breathing isn’t just a background function during yoga; it’s a fundamental part of the practice. Here’s why it’s so important:

• Enhances Oxygen Flow: Breath fuels movement by delivering oxygen to your muscles, improving circulation and flexibility. Studies show that controlled breathing can even reduce blood pressure and improve lung function.

• Anchors You in the Present: Focusing on each inhale and exhale keeps your mind from wandering, making it easier to stay present. This mindful connection between breath and movement helps calm the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety.

• Supports Different Yoga Styles: The way you breathe should align with the type of yoga you’re practicing. A fast-paced Vinyasa class requires a different breath pattern than a meditative Yin session.

How to Breathe Properly During Yoga

1. Check That You’re Actually Breathing
   It sounds obvious, but when a pose gets challenging, it’s easy to unconsciously hold your breath. The first step is simply maintaining steady, intentional breathing throughout your practice.

2. Align Your Breath with Movement
   A general rule of thumb: inhale when expanding (e.g., lifting your arms, opening your chest) and exhale when contracting (e.g., folding forward, twisting). Visualizing your breath filling your body on the inhale and releasing tension on the exhale can help reinforce this pattern.

3. Use the Right Breathing Technique for Your Yoga Style

   • Vinyasa & Power Yoga: Match one inhale or exhale with each movement to create a seamless flow.

   • Restorative & Yin Yoga: Try box breathing inhale for four counts, hold for four counts, exhale for four counts to calm your nervous system.

   • Advanced Practices: Once comfortable, explore Pranayama techniques like alternate nostril breathing (which balances energy) or Kapalabhati breath (a rapid, energizing breath).

Mastering the Breath Takes Time

Breathing may seem like the simplest part of yoga, but it’s actually an advanced practice. In traditional yoga philosophy, breath control (Pranayama) is considered a more refined skill than the physical poses (Asanas). So if you’re struggling to sync your breath with movement, don’t stress just keep breathing, and with time, it will become second nature.

Yoga’s blend of breath and movement reflects the harmony found in nature. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for more wellness insights.