Ujjayi Pranayama

When I began taking yoga classes, I noticed during quiet, still moments a breathing technique used by others and eventually learned to use it myself.

Ujjayi pranayama (also known as 'victorious breath' or 'ocean breath'): Long, steady, audible breathing through the nostrils (lips closed) with the soft areas of the throat subtly contracted. This sounds like loud whispers.

One description of what to do with the throat is to imagine trying to fog a mirror but the mouth is closed.

This intentional breathing - this regulation of flow of life force energy - seems to improve my focus and enhances mindfulness. If my thoughts are distracting me during practice, a few of these rhythmic breaths help re-connect my mind and body.