Throughout sessions of yoga, breathing techniques may or may not become an important part of the process. Depending on the types of yoga you follow, the kind of breathing you encounter will differ. In this article, we will take a look at the breathing techniques associated with Dirga Pranayama, which is often referred to as the complete breath.
Dirga Pranayama
When venturing into the world of yoga breathing techniques, you will find that Dirga Pranayama offers a method that involves three different parts. This is why this technique is often referred to as the 3-part breath (and sometimes the complete breath). Those who are looking for an approach that promotes calmness and relaxation, this is a popular method of breathing to seek out.
The allure of this breathing technique involves breathing that utilizes three parts of your stomach. Through active breathing, you will participate in three different positions. The first position deals with the lower part of the abdomen, which is the area located on top of or a little below the belly button. The second position involves the lower part of the chest, which is characterized by the lower half of the rib cage. Upon entering the third position, you will encounter the use of the lower part of the throat, which utilizes the part of the body located just above the top of the sternum.
In regards to the breathing technique, you will take continuous breaths, which are inhaled and exhaled through the nose. Inhalation begins with the first position (low stomach) and then goes onto the second position (low chest), and then flowing onto the third position (low throat), where the exhalation process begins. Exhalation then continues to the low chest, finally concluding in the low belly position.
When participating in the individual positions, you should have your hands in a resting position. This intensifies the breathing techniques and also allows you to feel your breath as it rises and falls with each position. When you begin to practice at a regular rate, the hands are used to isolate each movement associated with a position if you wish to do so.
Many participants feel that they become more in tune with their yoga session through this part of the technique. As you become more and more used to the yoga positions and breathing techniques, you can practice your positions without the use of your hands. This is best recommended when feeling your breath moving in and out of your body is no longer difficult to harness.
When you feel more comfortable with your effort, you can further achievement relaxation in regards to the Pranayama, where the three positions can be completed in a gentle manner. The best feeling that comes from this breathing technique is when you breathe, a wave of the up and down movements of your yoga session can be felt flowing about the torso.