The 3-Part Breath and Ujjayi Breathing

Beginner I
(87 Reviews)
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Our breathing is a natural place to begin when learning how to activate and strengthen the core. Our breath affects how much tension we hold in our bodies, how calm or active our nervous system is and how we use the power that is within us. In this class, the first of a series of three on core stability, David teaches you two breathing techniques that you may use in all of your future classes. The second class in this series is Integrating the Breath and the Bandhas and the third class is Finding Stability In All Poses. You can also find all three together in our program Establish Your Core Stability and Strength and on our Yoga for Beginners page.

Looking for more of a challenge? Check out the 14-Day Intermediate Challenge here.

Equipment

  • None

Focus

  • Sleep/Relaxation
  • Stress/Anxiety
  • Vigorous/Energy

Style

  • Gentle Yoga
  • Hatha Yoga
  • Pranayama Yoga
  • Yoga for Back Care
allshaks
January 16, 2021
Comment:

As usual, I loved this video!

David talked about efortless breathing. I sometimes feel as if I can't take a deep breath without making quite a big effort. When I begin inhalation, it soon seems as if I ran out of space for more breath, and yet I kind of feel like it isn't enough air on my lungs, so I keep pushing, but air doesn't flow in as freely as I'd imagine it should. Only on few occasions can I take in strong breaths that carry momentum, and they are usually chest breaths, not long and sustained but short-lived.

I usually relate this to anxiety, and chronic tension I accumulated on my back, chest and diaphragm. I was wondering if I should aim for slow and steady breaths first, even if they are not as deep, or rather if pushing through it a bit is alright at first.

I'm sorry if I wasn't clear enough. Thank you very much!

Comment Replies

David Procyshyn
March 2, 2021
Comment:

Thanks! I think it's ok to 'push through', as long as you're not pushing too much. If your body gets sore during the breathing or it's sore the day after, you're likely pushing too hard. It's a fine balance, and with practice you can see where you fit.

Liselou85
May 16, 2020
Comment:

Hi David and community! I enjoyed this video, but noticed it made me dizzy, and especially the shallow breaths almost gave me a headache with pressure building up in my sinuses. I have recently also started a meditation practice and notice that I often feel dizzy during/after meditation. Any reason why?

Comment Replies

David Procyshyn
May 17, 2020
Comment:

Breathing can definitely make you feel dizzy at times. I find that it passes quickly though, once you stop breathing. If it doesn't, lie down until it passes and you can stop breathing during a class anytime you feel it coming on. I'm not sure what would be causing the dizziness during meditation, though. You may want to check with your doctor - I've heard that that can be an inner ear thing.

raneeshm
April 26, 2020
Comment:

Wow, this brings a whole new meaning to learning the correct technique of belly breathing. Love David's simple instructions and techniques. Looking forward to the long journey on learning yoga the proper way.