“Then, the Seer (or He Who Sees) resides in himself, lying in his True Nature. This is called Self-Realization. ” -Patanjali.
Yoga teaches us to pay attention to the rhythmic movements of the body. When we breathe all the cells of the body are filled with oxygen, the body feeds with prana vital energy, the mind connects with the sensations that are experienced and the spirit rises in connection with the universe. The complete yogic breathing consists of breathing in a deep way, filling the lungs, intercostal ribs and the rib cage with oxygen, expanding the capacity of oxygen retention in the body and the brain.
Why insist so much on breathing while performing a yoga practice?
When the chest is inhaled it expands, when the abdomen is exhaled, it contracts, for example: Inhale raises the arms, exhales flexes the body forward. The breath must be integrated in each movement, guaranteeing the therapeutic contribution of a conscious yoga practice.
Observing how we breathe is essential to observe how we behave. If the breathing rhythm is accelerated so will be the movements, words, and thoughts. On the other hand, if the breathing rhythm is subtle and slow, the time you have to assimilate the information in your mind will be slower and if you take the right time to think, life will reward you with the right time to enjoy.
By increasing the lung capacity of the body, the functions of the organs respond with greater receptivity in their vital functions. With inspiration, the potential of the energy stored by each individual is awakened. The retention of inspiration provides internal massage for the benefit of the digestive, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems as the body relaxes. Yogic breathing consists simply of inhaling which fills the body, retaining a little oxygen and exhaling to contribute to the release of fluctuations of the mind and body.
Times to perform a proper Yogic breathing
Note: The times in the breath are measured by seconds.
Exercises:
Count the seconds of inhalation, retention, and exhalation in order to occupy the mind and keep us present.
To start the practice of complete breathing begins as follows:
Basic level:
It is inhaled in 4 – it is exhaled in 8. Repeat as many times as necessary until it is carried out naturally.
It is inhaled in 4 – oxygen is retained 4 – 8 is exhaled.
Intermediate level:
By feeling comfortable in the dynamics of exercises, increase the demands to contribute to efficient practice.
It is inhaled in 4 – oxygen is retained 8 – 8 is exhaled.
It is inhaled in 4 – oxygen is retained 12 – 8 is exhaled.
Advanced level:
Once thoughts are more easily mastered and the benefits of yoga practice appreciated, it is easier to motivate yourself to continue to experience the demands of asanas, breathing techniques, meditation methods, eating, and behavior.
It is inhaled deeply and slowly in 4 – oxygen is retained 16 – it is exhaled controlling respiration 8.
Integrating these breathing exercises into everyday activities will provide serenity, control, awareness, and well-being in thoughts, actions, and words.