Ujjayi Breathe

Ujjayi breathing is a breath technique employed in a variety of Hindu and Taoist Yoga practices. In relation to Hindu Yoga, it is sometimes called "the ocean breath". Unlike some other forms of pranayama, the ujjayi breath is typically done in association with asana practice.

Ujjayi is a diaphragmatic breath, which first fills the lower belly (activating the first and second chakras), rises to the lower rib cage (the third and fourth chakras), and finally moves into the upper chest and throat. The technique is very similar to the three-part Tu-Na breathing found in Taoist Qi Gong practice.

Inhalation and exhalation are both done through the nose. For beginners to yoga, the "ocean sound" is created by moving the glottis as air passes in and out. As the throat passage is narrowed so, too, is the airway, the passage of air through which creates a "rushing" sound. The length and speed of the breath is controlled by the diaphragm, the strengthening of which is, in part, the purpose of ujjayi.

For beginners to yoga, it is often suggested that proper execution of the ujjayi breath be audible. Ujjayi breathing by an experienced practitioner, however, is soundless – the only sensory feedback that the skilled practitioner has is the faint sensation of rubbing or vibration in the throat; the breath is so effortless that it would not move a feather held in front of the face. The inhalations and exhalations are equal in duration, and are controlled in a manner that causes no distress to the practitioner.

Ujjayi is a balancing and calming breath, which increases oxygenation and builds internal body heat^{[citation needed]}. [This description of ujjayi is that inspired by Sri T. Krishnamacharya, who taught the creators of Ashtanga Yoga, Iyengar Yoga, and many others.]