Yoga Breathing Techniques

Video Transcript

"The first technique I am going to teach is actually a breathing technique. It is called alternate nostril breathing and you are going to learn how to control the breath flow through one nostril and then the other so that helps to balance the brain create an evenness in the movement of the breath in the nostrils which helps to calm the nervous system and hopefully help you to release some stress or tensions which might be going on in your mind. So the first mudra is for the left hand with the first finger and thumb touching palm facing up. The right hand comes into a mudra where you draw your first two fingers toward your thumb extend your thumb and ring finger out. Just try to keep your eyes closed as you gently tuck your chin towards your chest take your hand your right hand to your nostrils right at the place where you can feel that you start to have the cartilage that opens up your nostrils you are gonna to close there with your thumb and first finger. Then you can release the right nostril exhale through that nostril inhale through that nostril again close block both release the left finger exhaling through the left nostril inhale close block both and release the right. So just alternating the flow with the breath through one nostril and then the other holding in between for a pause. And just do this as many times as you feel comfortable until you feel like you are allowing yourself to calm in the mind and you can release your right hand down with the first finger and thumb connecting palm facing up on your thigh and just tune into your breath. Try to soften, relax your shoulders extend your neck and let go of the thoughts in your mind."