Ujjayi Pranayama

Ujjayi Pranayama – Also known as “ocean breath” because it sounds like soft waves, ebbing and flowing. The word Ujjayi means ‘victorious’ and/or ‘to conquer’ in Sanskrit. Pranayama is the term that refers to breathing practices. So, “ujjayi pranayama” means to conquer the breath – to be victorious over the inhale and exhale.

This breathing practice is the most soothing technique I know, and it’s a common breathing practice in yoga. It may take some practice before it feels comfortable. Keep trying! I promise it will be worth the effort!

Benefits: Constricting the throat as air comes in and goes out helps control the speed and depth of the breath. The soft audible sound is also soothing for the nervous system, and helps to hold the attention of the practitioner. This technique improves mental clarity, focus and memory. It also infuses the body with fresh oxygen (life force / prana), and boosts the immune system.

How to: Put yourself in a comfortable position and close your eyes to bring an inward focus. Inhale slowly and deeply while slightly constricting the throat to create a soft hissing sound. Exhale with the same gentle squeeze in the throat, allowing all of the air to flow out of your lungs. This constriction of the throat should feel similar to the way it feels when we speak in a whisper, or when we softly fog a mirror with our breath. The mouth remains closed, with inhales and exhales taken through the nostrils for this practice. Practice breathing this way for several minutes and enjoy the results.

Mantra: “Look at me, going with the flow…”