Recent Articles in Pranayama

Duration: 5 minutes

Emphasis:  A breathing practice to stimulate and energise you - inhaling through the right nostril and exhaling through the left. Breathing in through the right nostril links to the left hemisphere of the brain, bringing a sense of being brighter and more alert. Please note: holding the breath is contra-indicated for those with blood pressure issues. Please do not retain the breath at the end of each inhale and exhale but allow the breathing to flow in a smooth rhythm without interruption. Please note also that in the video I am not mirroring you, so listen to the instructions rather than copying the arm movement I am doing - I hope that makes sense!

Props needed: A blanket, cushion or chair so you can sit comfortably.

Mat direction: N/A

Duration: 9 minutes

Emphasis: This pranayama practice will ensure you are using your diaphragm fully - it's an important part of your breathing apparatus which, if you always breath quite shallowly can lose its flexibility and movement just like any other unused muscle. This is a very relaxing practice and will leave you feeling spacious and calm.

Props needed: A block and space to lie down.

Mat direction: n/a.

Duration: 7 minutes

Emphasis: Deepen your breathing, expand your lungs, bring more oxygen into your cells, increase the flexibility of the ribcage and the diaphragm muscle and create space in the chest. Start gently with these 5 rounds, then increase the rounds gradually over time. Please note: this practice is not suitable if you have high blood pressure, heart problems or are pregnant.

Props needed: blanket, block or chair to sit on if required.

Mat Direction: n/a