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4 Ways to Improve Your Breathing Off The Yoga Mat

Breathing is one of the most important aspects of yoga. But synchronizing your breathing to yoga movements isn’t always as easy as it sounds. Keeping your breathing focuses and strong during a yoga class can require some additional practice. Here are 4 great ways to give you the skills and confidence in proper breathing techniques that you can take with you next time you hit the mat.

 

Meditation

Meditation is another aspect of yoga, but many yogis practice meditation outside of yoga too. One reason that breathing can be difficult is that our mind wanders. Practicing meditation improved one’s ability to return to and focus on breathing. Take the time to get some meditation in each day, which will teach you how to stay focused on breathing.

 

Cardio

Yoga is great, but integrating other cardio workouts is a great way to improve your breathing. Cardio exercises like running and swimming improve your lunch capacity and will help you find strong breath. These exercises also strengthen breath-to-movement connections, which are important in yoga.

 

Breather

While meditation is great, it does require work. Sometimes the best thing you can do is just take a moment, zone out, and focus on your breathing while doing a minor task like putting your shoes on. Just take some time during the day to consciously noting your breathing. It will give you a moment to pause and collect your thoughts as well as bring you into the present moment.

 

Pranayama

Pranayama translated to the regulation of breath through certain techniques.  There are tons of breathing techniques out there that teach you how to use and control your breathing in different ways. These exercises help the entire body and provide a wide range of options.

 

Conclusion

Breathing is such a simple element of life, but it’s something that people often don’t think about. It’s such an important part of yoga, and just being alive. Take some time every day to consciously be aware of your breathing. Integrating a few breathing techniques and some cardio exercise will all improve your breathing which will only make you better next time you hit the yoga mat!

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