Ujjayi Pranayama | Yogic Breathing Techniques

Ujjayi breathing is a breathing technique in which both inhalation and exhalation are done through the nose. A Breathing technique is called Pranayama in Yogic terms and this particular technique is also called "the ocean breath". Unlike other yogic breathing techniques, Ujjayi pranayama is done in association with other yoga poses.

What is the Ujjayi Technique?

Ujjayi breath is classified as a diaphragmatic breath. Unlike normal shallow breathing, diaphragmatic breathing flexes your diaphragm and not your rib cage. This deep breathing is healthier as it allows you to ingest more oxygen. When practicing Ujjayi yoga, a person should be able to first feel their lower belly expanding. This activates the first and second chakras. The breath should then rise to the lower rib cage where it activates the third and fourth chakra. In the last stage, it moves to the upper chest and throat after which it is expelled through the nose.

When to use Ujjayi Breathing?

Ujjayi breathing is a calming and balancing breath which increases the oxygenation of the blood. It is often used in conjunction with Power Yoga and Flow Yoga - Vinyasa. Vinyasa yoga is based on breath-synchronized poses and Ujjayi breathing is generally the preferred breathing technique. Ujjayi yoga lends a meditative quality to a yoga session and allows the individual to maintain the rhythm of their session. It is also beneficial as bonding method during the transition out of and into the Poses – asanas. It diminishes distractions and allows the practitioner to remain self aware but grounded in the practice.

How to practice Ujjayi Breathing?

To achieve Ujjayi breathing, you can follow a few simple steps.

1. Using only your mouth, inhale deeply and then exhale. Repeat this step a couple of times so that you are completely calm and relaxed.
2. When exhaling, slightly constrict the passage of air coming out of your lungs. This is similar to the method you would use to fog up your glasses. You will feel a faint vibration or a sensation of rubbing in the back of your throat. This will make a base hissing sound.
3. Do this a couple of times and when you are comfortable with it apply the same technique when inhaling. Make sure that you do not inhale through your nose.
4. Do this several times so that you are completely familiar and at ease with this technique. Continue with this technique only close your mouth and inhale and exhale through your nose instead. Your breathing should still have the same hissing sound, only this time it will come in and out of your nose.