The best way to learn Breath of Fire is to experience it with a teacher, so follow the tutorial video above and learn the technique from Bill & Jeff directly. We've also included some written information that may help you further master this wonderful breath.
BREATH OF FIRE is a powerful must learn breathing technique for many postures and meditations found on PracticalYoga.tv. This powerful breath is cleansing, relaxing and rejuvenating all at once, and is said to increase the effects of a posture when it is added. Breath of Fire is a rapid succession of half-breaths that uses the power and energy of the navel center (the chakra governed by the fire element) to purify, energize and massage the internal organs.
Tutorial Sit comfortably on a chair (at your desk, for example) or in easy pose (crossed legged) on the floor. Relax the shoulders, close your eyes and take a deep, full breath. Exhale out any distractions
To learn the breath, bring your right hand to rest on your stomach, with your forefinger directly on top of the navel. Press your ring finger into your belly (this is three finger directly below the navel) to locate your yogic navel center, and the area where the breath of fire originates. This area must be moving rapidly in rhythm with the breath to master this technique.
Do NOT do Breath of Fire if it is the first three days of your moon (menstrual) cycle, or if you are pregnant, after the first trimester of your pregnancy.
STEP 1: Start with Dog Breath: Stick your tongue out and begin to pant like a dog (yes, we said like a dog) with a rapid, diaphragmatic half-breath.
With each exhale, you are contracting the navel center and pushing the abdominal muscles back toward the spine. The inhale releases the belly and the air naturally flows back into the lungs. This is done in rapid succession – as it is a rapid, diaphragmatic half-breath. Focus particularly on the exhale, and the inhale will work to take care of itself.
STEP 2: Breath of Fire: Once you have this dog breath/pant down to a good rhythm, close your mouth and continue this breath through the nose. This is Breath of Fire.
Pointers If you use this technique and breathe through your upper lungs, you will hyperventilate. Do NOT hyperventilate. If you do hyperventilate (dizziness to the point you feel you may faint) , stop the breath immediately and go back to the video tutorial to gain greater mastery.
If you get a little dizzy or lightheaded, but you are doing the technique correctly, simply slow down the breath or just breathe normally. It can take a while to strengthen the body so you can handle the rapid-fire rhythm of this powerful breath.
The Achieve Your Dreams Visualization AUDIO CD with Online Photo/Video Tutorial is a great, portable edition to your practice.
It contains over 45 minutes of guided yoga and music to help you GO DEEPER and ENGAGE the LAWS of ATTRACTION so you can get the most of your mind's desire. Included:
Relaxation Techniques
Breath Work
Simple Postures
BONUS: We've included over 20 minutes of original relaxation music.
Spirit Trainers, LLC. 1500 SW 11th Ave., #1007 Portland, OR 97201 503-715-3131 I understand that yoga involves stretching and other physical activity that may not be appropriate for all individuals. Before doing these exercises or participating in any exercise program, I will have consulted my physician. I realize that the statements made in on this website and the techniques given are not offered in substitution for medical advice or treatment.
