Breathing Bliss: Hatha Yoga Breathing Techniques

by Tirtha Acharya | Apr 7, 2024 | Yoga

Take A Deep Breath, You Can Do This: Hatha Yoga Breathing Techniques!

When contemplating the practice of yoga, it’s common to first envision the various poses typically performed in a class. Indeed, participating in yoga often includes flowing through and maintaining a series of postures. Yet, it’s important to recognize that these physical aspects represent just one facet of the broader yoga experience. Let’s get into some Hatha yoga breathing techniques.

In addition to the physical postures, breathing is a fundamental component of yoga practice. It forms the cornerstone of most yoga styles, with breath work being integral to the experience. Hatha Yoga, in particular, emphasizes the synchronization of breath with movement, fostering a deeper sense of awareness and connection with oneself.

Breath work is a critical focus across various styles within the Hatha Yoga tradition, whether it’s Power Vinyasa Yoga, Hot Yoga, or Restorative Yoga. In all these forms, the emphasis on mindful breathing is paramount, as it enhances the effectiveness of the practice and deepens the mind-body connection.

Hatha Yoga encompasses a wide array of Pranayama techniques, or breathing exercises, each designed to cater to different aspects of physical and mental well-being. These techniques vary in complexity and purpose, ranging from simple deep breathing exercises to more intricate methods involving breath retention and controlled exhalations.

Understanding Hatha Yoga Breathing

In the vast landscape of yogic practices, Hatha Yoga Breathing stands out as a fundamental aspect aimed at harnessing the inherent power of the breath. The term “haṭha” comprises the syllables “ha” and “ṭha,” representing the sun and the moon, respectively, symbolizing the union of opposing energies within the body. Through conscious control of the breath, practitioners endeavor to synchronize these energies, paving the way for heightened awareness and spiritual evolution.

Unlocking the Secrets of Breath

Central to the efficacy of Hatha Yoga Breathing are the three easy-to-practice breathing techniques, meticulously designed to yield rapid results without adverse effects. These techniques, rooted in ancient wisdom and bolstered by modern insights, offer a pathway to tranquility amidst the chaos of contemporary life.

The Three Breathing Techniques

1. The First Breathing Yoga: Sit comfortably in Sukhasana. Keep any mudra you like. The spine should be erect. Inhale slowly, simultaneously closing the eyelids. Detain the inhaled breath ONLY for one or two seconds. Then exhale, simultaneously opening the eyelids. Repeat this process for fifty times, ensuring the practice is slow and deliberate. The results are instant, fostering calmness of mind, peace, and enlightenment.
2. The Second Breathing Yoga: While seated in the same posture, inhale through the nostrils slowly, detaining the inhaled breath for one or two seconds. Then exhale slowly through the mouth. Close the mouth and wait for one or two seconds before repeating the process five to seven times. This technique stimulates cellular rejuvenation and revitalizes the entire being.
3. The Third Breathing for Mind Control: Begin by sitting in the same posture with closed eyelids. Open the mouth slowly and exhale the inside air with a gentle, slow speed. Then, enter a state of meditation without reciting any mantra. This practice slows the speed of breathing, calming the mind and fostering a sense of tranquility. With regular practice, the practitioner can extend this Sadhana gradually, experiencing profound mental serenity and spiritual growth.

The Grand Lemurrian Shiva Sakthi Maha Mudra

Incorporating a transformative mudra into the practice enhances the benefits of Hatha Yoga Breathing techniques, fostering a deeper connection to one’s inner self and the universal consciousness. This ancient posture, passed down through generations, serves as a gateway to spiritual bliss and enlightenment.

Breathing is the very essence of life and the first thing we do when we enter this world and the last thing when we depart. In between, our bodies absorb roughly half a billion breaths.

Apart from sustaining life, the mind, body, and breath are so intimately connected that they deeply influence each other. The way we breathe is influenced by our state of mind, and in turn, our thoughts and physiology can be influenced by our breathing. Deep breathing practices advocated in advanced yoga training can have a positive impact on our physiology, both body and mind.

For thousands of years, Yoga and Ayurveda have employed breathing techniques (pranayama) to maintain, balance and restore physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. It results in several physiological benefits, achieved through the control of respiration.

The benefits of a regulated practice of simple, deep yogic breathing include:

• Muscle Relaxation
• Increase in energy levels
• Reduced anxiety, depression, and stress
• Lower/stabilized blood pressure
• Regulating your Breath – The Yoga Way

The simplest breathing exercise for calming both the nervous system and the overworked mind is a timed way of breathing where the exhalation is longer than the inhalation. This reduces the tone of your sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight response) while activating your parasympathetic nervous system (the rest, relax, and digest response). Breathing in this way for at least five minutes will bring about a difference in your overall mood. Anyone can do this exercise without having to consult a teacher.

Pranayama Techniques

In addition to the practice of simple deep breathing, ancient yogis have detailed different types of rhythmic deep breathing techniques that can have differing effects on the mind and body. Each of these breathing techniques has specific effects on the mind-body continuum.

Please keep in mind that you should learn the following breathing techniques from a qualified teacher who will also be able to guide you when to practice, how many times and over what period of time. In the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, one of the oldest texts on Hatha yoga, it is said that: “All diseases are eradicated by the proper practice of pranayama. All diseases can arise through improper practice. The lungs heart and nerves are normally strong and gain strength with regulated and suitable pranayama, but weakened with improper practice. By wrong and excessive practice one’s mental quirks and even nervous tics could become exaggerated. Every practice should be treated with respect and caution. Hence guidance is to be sought.

The Yoga Chudamani Upanishad states: “Just as the lion, elephant, and tiger are brought under control slowly and steadily, similarly the PRANA should be controlled, otherwise it becomes destructive to the practitioner.

Nadi Shodhana or Alternate Nostril Breathing

A yogic practice that immediately helps you to feel calmer whenever you are feeling anxious or agitated. Inhale deeply through your left nostril while holding your right nostril closed with your right thumb. At its culmination, switch nostrils by closing off your left nostril and continuing to exhale smoothly through your right nostril. After exhaling fully, proceed to inhale through the right nostril, again closing it off at the peak of your inhalation. Lift your finger off the left nostril and exhale fully. Continue alternating your breathing through each nostril and practice for 3 to 5.

Breathful Bliss: Hatha Yoga’s Respiratory Magic

by Tirtha Acharya | Mar 31, 2024 | Yoga

Introduction: The Quest for Breathful Bliss

In the serene realm of Hatha Yoga, practitioners embark on a quest for “Breathful Bliss,” where the gentle rhythm of breath becomes a gateway to profound contentment and joy. Rooted in ancient wisdom and modern science, the union of breath and movement in Hatha Yoga offers a transformative journey towards inner peace and holistic well-being. Join us as we explore the magical realm of “Breathful Bliss” and discover how Hatha Yoga’s respiratory magic can uplift the spirit and restore balance to mind, body, and heart.

Breathful Bliss in Hatha Yoga: A Symphony of Breath and Movement

Within the tranquil flows of Hatha Yoga sequences, practitioners experience the art of synchronizing breath and movement, creating a harmonious symphony of mind-body connection. Guided by skilled instructors, students embark on a journey of self-discovery, exploring the depths of various postures while infusing each movement with intention and mindfulness. Through gentle, deliberate flows that blend elements of yin yoga, breathwork, and revitalizing energy, practitioners uncover a pathway to inner peace and grounding, finding solace and serenity in the sacred union of breath and motion.

Exploring Mood and Emotion in Hatha Yoga: A Journey Within

Each session of Hatha Yoga, infused with the essence of “Breathful Bliss,” offers a unique exploration of mood and emotion, inviting practitioners to delve into the nuances of their inner landscape. From invigorating sequences designed to awaken the senses and energize the body, to soothing poses that promote relaxation and tranquility, these mood-focused flows cater to the diverse needs and aspirations of students. Whether seeking a morning boost of vitality or an evening wind-down, practitioners find sanctuary on the mat, where breath and movement converge to cultivate a profound sense of well-being and joy.

The Transformative Power of Breathful Bliss: Awakening Vitality

Ideal for intermediate and advanced yogis seeking a daily dose of happiness and energy, Hatha Yoga flows infused with Breathful Bliss provide a transformative journey into the heart of self-awareness and vitality. Through harmonious sequences that honor the sacred union of breath and motion, practitioners deepen their mind-body connection, nurturing a state of blissful presence that extends far beyond the confines of the yoga mat. Step into the world of Hatha Flow, where each inhalation and exhalation becomes a celebration of life’s infinite possibilities, and discover the transformative power of Breathful Bliss.

Conclusion: Embracing the Magic of Breathful Bliss

As we conclude our exploration of Hatha Yoga’s respiratory magic and the quest for Breathful Bliss, may you carry with you a renewed sense of wonder and gratitude for the gift of breath and movement. Through the practice of Hatha Yoga, may you continue to cultivate inner peace, vitality, and joy, harnessing the transformative power of Breathful Bliss to navigate life’s journey with grace and resilience. Embrace each breath as a reminder of your innate connection to the universe, and may your practice be a source of inspiration and liberation on the path to holistic well-being.

Moon Gaze Meditation- The moonlight meditation

by Tirtha Acharya | Mar 23, 2024 | Yoga

Moon Gaze Meditation – Meditation is one of the most peaceful things you can do to manage stress and well-being. There are different types of meditation that you can do depending on your needs. One of the prevalent forms of meditation which has been around since ancient times but now is getting popular is the moon gaze meditation.

If you’re wondering what it’s all about, then don’t worry. We’ve got you covered. Through this blog, we shall take a look at what moon gaze meditation is and other matters associated with it. So without further delay, let’s dive into it.

The Art of Moon Gaze Meditation:

 Moon gaze meditation is also known as lunar meditation and it’s a peaceful practice. In this, you observe the divine beauty of the moon. It’s a form of mindfulness meditation where you gaze at the moon and allow its light to wash over you. While doing that, it leaves you in a state of peace and serenity.

This practice can be traced back centuries through various cultures and traditions. Its prominence is mostly attributed to its ability to awaken the spirit, calm the mind, and strengthen the connection with nature.

Connecting with Lunar Energy:

The distinguishing aspect of moon gaze meditation is the ability to connect with the moon. With its bright presence in the night sky, it captivates your imagination and leaves you in a state of peace. When you engage in moon gaze meditation, you tap into the serene energies of the moon and become a part of cosmic delight. It’s a unique and easy way to release stress, and tension, and be present in the moment.

History of Moon Gaze Meditation:

 The history of moon gaze meditation dates back to ancient civilizations such as the Babylonians, Mayans, and Egyptians. People of these cultures observed the moon cycles and developed spiritual practices to worship it. For instance, the Babylonians used lunar calendars to track agricultural cycles and religious festivals. Likewise, the Egyptians associated specific deities with each phase of the moon.

Benefits of Moon Gaze Meditation:

• Reduces anxiety and promotes relaxation
• Enhances creativity and intuition
• Deepens spiritual connection
• Aligns with the natural rhythms of the universe
• Promotes inner peace and tranquility
• Enhances emotional healing and self-discovery
• Cultivates mindfulness
• Develops cosmic wisdom

How to Practice Moon Gaze Meditation:

Here are some basic points that you can use to practice moon gaze meditation.

1. Find a quiet outdoor space with a clear picture of the moon.
2. Be comfortable in a seated or lying position. Inhale and exhale while allowing your body to relax and unwind.
3. Gently gaze at the moon and relax your eyes. Focus on your breathing and be mindful in the moment.
4. Tune into the sensations of the present moment. Try to free yourself from any distractions.
5. Stay as long as you like while basking in the glow of the moon.

As we finish exploring the moon gaze meditation, we encourage you to carry the magic of the moon with you. Whether you’re looking at the stars or observing nature’s beauty, keep the moon’s presence in your heart. Let this practice bring you peace and let it guide you through life’s dark moments.

Aqua Asana- Water Yoga

by Tirtha Acharya | Mar 10, 2024 | Yoga

The world of fitness is constantly changing and aqua asana is a prime example of that. For newbies, it might seem like something extraordinary, but to the seasoned eye, it’s quite simple. It’s a derivation of traditional yoga where only the setting of performing yoga is changed. Instead of performing it on land, aqua asana takes place in water. In this blog, we shall take a look at what aqua asana is and the many questions associated with it.

Exploring Aqua Asana:

Aqua asana is commonly known as water yoga and as the name suggests, is practiced in water. This dynamic practice combines different postures of yoga with the therapeutic benefits of water. The water supports your body which makes it easier to move around and stretch. It’s as simple as plain yoga but with the advantage of water resistance.

This yoga practice is mostly suitable for people who have a hard time moving around. Also, it’s helpful for those who have joint pain and back problems. Plus, it’s a cool way to stay active during the hot weather!

Benefits of Aqua Asana:

The benefits of aqua asana are outlined below

• Suitable for people with joint issues
• Improves flexibility
• Greater strength
• Stress relief
• Promotes cardiovascular health
• Greater balance and coordination
• Proper mind and body connection
• Suitable for all fitness levels
• Tool for rehabilitation

Getting Started with Aqua Asana:

Here are some points that you should consider when starting Aqua Asana

1. Search for a suitable location where you can comfortably practice aqua asana. You can look for a pool or shallow body of water.
2. Choose comfortable attire that doesn’t restrict your movement.
3. Begin with a gentle warm-up and gradually proceed to the main practice. You can spend a few minutes swimming or walking to prepare your body.
4. Once you are warmed up, focus on your breath. Inhale deeply, exhale slowly and allow your breath to guide you through the movements.
5. Commence with basic poses and gradually proceed to difficult ones.
6. Pay close attention to the poses and understand your body’s sensations and limitations.
7. You might need to modify certain poses depending on your body’s abilities. Be sure to use props to assist you with stability and balance.
8. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your aqua asana practice to remain hydrated.
9. Listen to your body and understand its limitations. Don’t exert yourself too much.

Safety Precautions and Considerations:

Here are some considerations that you need to follow when practicing Aqua asana

• Maintain proper form
• Listen to your body
• Be mindful of your surrounding
• Avoid overexertion
• Seek professional guidance
• Find a partner

Common poses of aqua asana:

Some common poses of aqua asana are given below:

1. Floating Lotus: Sit comfortably in the water with your legs crossed and hands resting on your knees. Close your eyes and focus on your breath as you gently float on the surface of the water.

2. Water Warrior: Stand in chest-deep water with your feet hip-width apart. Extend your arms overhead, palms facing each other, and bend your knees to lower into a warrior pose.

3. Aqua Tree Pose: Stand in waist-deep water with your feet hip-width apart. Shift your weight onto your left foot and place the sole of your right foot against the inner thigh or calf of your left leg. Bring your hands to your heart center or extend them overhead like branches of a tree.

4. Floating Forward Fold: Stand in waist-deep water with your feet hip-width apart. Exhale as you hinge forward at the hips, allowing your upper body to fold forward towards the water. Let your arms hang loosely or reach for your ankles.

As you dive into aqua asana, feel the flow of movement and soak in the peacefulness of the water. Fully immerse yourself in the relaxing benefits of aqua asana and connect with your inner self. Your mind, body, and soul will thank you for this wonderful experience.

For more blogs visit on our Nepal Yoga Home blog section.

Three best procedures of Meditations in Vigyan Bhairav Tantra

by Tirtha Acharya | Feb 17, 2024 | Yoga

Three best procedures of Meditations in Vigyan Bhairav Tantra

The first method of Vigyan Bhairav Tantra:

Method outline: Concentrate on the ephemeral hiatus between two breaths. Sense it.

Shiva Replies to the Question of Goddess Parvati:

Short elucidation: Between two breaths, radiant one, this experience will arise. Soon after inhaling (down) and soon before emerging (up) – this brings beneficence.  In other sentences- The breath (supreme energy of life) moves upwards with exhalation and downwards with inhalation. By fixing on the two abodes of its foundation, one achieves the state of realization.

Further clarification:   

This technique wants you to be aware between these two points, and the occurring. Observe your inhalation from the point of beginning. For a short moment, or even it can be the thousandth part of a moment, breathing ceases. — before it turns up i.e. before it goes back outwards. After every breath there is a certain point that the breath stops.

After that breath goes out and again for a single moment, or it can be the smallest part of a moment, breath stops. Then breath enters inside. Thus you will not breath just before the breathing is turning in or turning out. In that moment the occurring or changing is probable, since you are not a part of the world when you are not breathing.

Let’s understand this concept:

If you don’t breathe you die. The moment between inhalation and exhalation when you are not breathing but you are still, is an important moment. This moment passes by so quickly that you never notice it. Every exhaled breath is a death and every inhaled breath is a rebirth in Tantra. Inhaling breath signifies rebirth, and exhaling it signifies death. The inhalation is associated with life, and the exhalation is associated with death. You are therefore dying and reborn with every breath. Though the distance between the two is quite small, you will feel it if you pay close attention and observe with keenness.

There is another philosophical aspects– inhalation means receiving, taking and exhalation means giving, donating, sacrificing, etc.

If you can notice this gap (between two breaths), Shiva says, the magnanimity, goodness or beneficence.

After that you need nothing else.  You are exalted, hallowed and blessed. You have known- the incident has ensued.

Here you are not supposed to regulate or train the breath. Leave it to the law of nature, just as it is. The technique is very simple. This helps to realize the truth. It brings the realization of that which is neither born nor dies, to understand that timeless eternal element that is always.

In-breath and out-breath is comparatively easier to know than to know the gap between these two.  To notice the gap you can apply some of the techniques:

Be aware of the in- breath. Just watch it. Ignore everything. Concentrate on the passage of nostrils or the base of the nostril. Feel the breath right away as it reaches your nostrils. Next, allow the breath to enter. Breath full consciously. Do not miss a breath as you descend, descend, descend with the breath. Simply follow along; don’t lead the way or lag behind. Keep this in mind: stay in sync with it rather than ahead of it or like a shadow. Conscious breath ought to unite.

When breath goes in- go in with it until you get the gap which is between two breaths. Do the same work for exhalation as well.

Buddha said, “Become conscious of inhalation and exhalation”. There is no need to discuss the gap, therefore he never does. Buddha considered and sensed your awareness may be disturbed if you  worry about the space between two breaths. If you create a desire to feel the interval, it may be a hindrance to awareness. So he just said, “Take note. Move in tandem with the inhalation and exhalation of the breath”

Buddha wanted you to be conscious of your breath minutely whether there is breath or no breath. It means you will be aware during the gap as well. When you feel the moment that the breath has ceased- beneficence happens.

Vigyan Bhairav Tantra : Second Meditation technique

Technique review: When the breathing pauses during an inhalation or exhalation and turns inward or outward to begin a new cycle of inhalation and exhalation, be aware of that turn. Experience it.

Shiva  Replies :

2. Recognize that breath goes through both of these turns as it curves from down to up and from up to down.

Now the emphasis has changed. In the previous one, awareness was on the gap between the breath (at the moment breath gets paused). Now the emphasis is on the turning. Right after a pause of breath it turns back. For example after inhalation, a pause arises. Then it turns back as exhalation. Again after exhalation, breath pauses. Then it turns back as inhalation. Thus, you need to be aware of these two turns. Try to realize these turning points of the breath.

This can be told in other sentences. Notice your first stage of inhalation after its pause. Realize the first stage of exhalation after its pause. Breath curves from up to down through the nostrils- Realize it. Breath curves down to up through the nostrils- Realize it. Keep practicing.  This turning is possible to observe if you maintain constant awareness of breath.

If you can watch the turn of your breath without any mental movement, you will enter into yourself, or the beyond inside. You will realize who you are.

Vigyan Bhairav Tantra: Third Meditation technique

Technique Review: Concentrate on the naval- the center where the in-breath and outbreath convene. Feel the breath.

Shiva Replies: 3. Or, whenever inhalation and exhalation mingle, at this moment feel the energy-less, energy-filled center.

Humans have the center and the periphery. The body is the periphery or circumference. But the fusion happens in the center or mid-point. At that time no moving in or moving out happens.

The breath is dynamic when coming in or going out. When it is neither or non-moving you are close to the core or center. The union station of the in-breath and outbreath is your pivot or center. Breath goes   to the navel, which is the center of your body. And come back.

The center is a connection between you and your body. You feel “off-center” because you know only the body or periphery but not the center. The whole modern world is missing their center.

You become total at the moment it goes to the center. Your breath is minimum, now try for the maximum. When you are aware of the center you can breathe at the maximum, live life at the extreme – then life is abundant. When you are conscious of the center during the fusion of breath you will feel bliss.

If you do not get (notice or realize) the center take deep, slow breaths. Breath from the naven not from the chest.

If the breath travels deeper and down to the belly, it provides liveliness and vigor to the sex center. It touches the sex axis; it massages the sex root from within. This makes sex center more functioning, more alive. This way of breathing helps to transform sexual energy to spiritual energy. To get mastery over sex breathing system should be changed.

One of Lord Shiva’s most paradoxical expressions is “energy-less, energy-filled.” It has no energy because neither your bodies nor your minds can give it any. As far as you know, your identity is devoid of energy because neither your body nor your thinking possess any energy. However, the reason it is energetic is not your body’s energy; rather it comes from the cosmic source of energy.

Your body i.e. periphery gets energy from food but the center won’t. So, Shiva says it is energy-less. The center does not depend on food and drink. It has a connection with the cosmic energy source. Thus it is an energy-filled center.

When you can sense the exact place where the breaths mix, the center from which they are emitted or inhaled, you will have reached enlightenment.

For more blogs visit on our Nepal Yoga Home blog section.