Ujjayi Pranayama, often called "Ocean Breath" or "Victorious Breath," is a breathing technique used in many yoga styles, especially Vinyasa and Ashtanga. It creates a soft, soothing sound like ocean waves, which helps to focus the mind.
How to Practice Ujjayi
- Sit in a comfortable position with a straight spine.
- Inhale deeply through your nose.
- Exhale slowly through your nose while constricting the back of your throat.
- This constriction creates a rushing sound, like a whisper or the ocean.
- Try to make the inhalation and exhalation equal in length.
Benefits
- Calms the Nervous System: Reduces stress and anxiety.
- Increases Focus: The sound anchors the mind in the present moment.
- Generates Heat: Warms the body from the inside out, preparing it for asana practice.
- Regulates Blood Pressure: Helps to lower high blood pressure.
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