Pranayama – Breathing – Day 4 – 2021 – Ujjayi Pranayama – Ocean Breath

by Tarryn Tyler - Daily Yogiposted in 4 Pranayama, Self Care

Table of contents

Happy February 16, 2021 – Pranayama (Breathing): Ujjayi Pranayama (Ocean Breath)

Good morning Yogis! We are in the middle of a special Pranayama week! Today we will be revisiting Ujjayi (oo-JAW-yee) Pranayama. This is literally translated from Sanskrit as Victorious Breath, but is commonly referred to as Ocean Breath due to the sound of this technique. This is another great cooling and calming breathing technique, and is ideal during Asana practice. You may have learned this in Yoga class before, especially if you have attended a Hot Yoga class.

bright blue alpine creek in snow-capped mountain valley with bright blue sky and white fluffy clouds - pranayama breath breathing Quote: We live in an ocean of air like fish in a body of water. By our breathing we are attuned to our atmosphere. If we inhibit our breathing we isolate ourselves from the medium in which we exist.... the breath holds the secret to the highest bliss. - Alexander Lowen
We live in an ocean of air like fish in a body of water. By our breathing we are attuned to our atmosphere. If we inhibit our breathing we isolate ourselves from the medium in which we exist…. the breath holds the secret to the highest bliss. – Alexander Lowen

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is trying Ujjayi Pranayama or Ocean Breathing.

Ujjayi Pranayama

Start with Diaphragmatic Breathing for 3 full inhales and exhales.

Open your mouth and inhale and exhale through your mouth. Contract your throat to slightly say “HA” on the exhales. Keep this light contraction in your throat so you slightly say “SA” on the inhales. You will start noticing the ocean sound from which this technique gets its name.

Now, close your mouth. Inhale and exhale through your nose, while keeping this contraction in your throat to keep the ocean sound continuing on both inhales and exhales. As you become comfortable with this breathing technique, try your Asana practice with this Ujjayi Pranayama.

Want more on Pranayama? Check out our Pranayama Guide!

light blue breath graphic on dark blue background

Share your Practice

Please comment and let me know what you thought of this Ujjayi Pranayama exercise! Have you ever tried this technique as a standalone or during your Asana practice? Always remember, be kind!

More Positive Practices

Missed yesterday’s post? Read it here!

              

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