
Pranayama is the use of breath to bring about positive physical and mental change. Breath work re-balances the autonomic nervous system. Benefits of pranayama include relief from stress and anxiety, improved immune system, improved focus and concentration, and increased energy levels. It is a tool that is available to anyone at anytime.
A simple way quickly calming the mind from stress or anxiety is by extending the exhale of the breath to be twice as long as the inhale. This activates the parasympathetic nervous system and dampens the sympathetic nervous system. Control of the breath improves with regular practice and is an integral part of yoga.
Prana is energy or life force. Ayama is the storage and distribution of the energy. By practicing pranayama, we are using breath control to distribute energy to all the cells of the body, balancing the autonomic nervous system and allowing prana flow within the body. The mind becomes calmer and emotions stabilized.
If you are looking to go deeper into Yoga, check out House of Yoga for training by my guru Mark Breadner
Below are some of our favourite pranayama videos. I will be writing articles to replace some of the videos – feel free to suggest topics of interest on breath work.
During pranayama, there is an awareness of the inhale and exhale of the breath. In general, if the length of the exhale is twice the length of the inhale, there will be activation of the parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest), calming the mind and relaxing the body. The sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight) will be toned down, reducing stress and anxiety. There can be retention of the breath between inhalation and exhalation but this must be done with ease and stability. Pranayama is usually added after the yoga asanas are mastered (according to Patanjali).


Inhalation brings energy into the body and Exhalation removes toxins from the body. With practice, pranayama allows one to experience an elevated sense of oneness with the universe, connecting the physiological with the spiritual. For the beginner, start with a manageable number of breathing cycles, gradually increasing with regular practice and get into a rhythm, without having to count. The mind should be free of thoughts and in the present moment.

Qi Gong
Qi Gong is an ancient Chinese practice consisting of movement, breathing and meditation that has been used for energizing, healing and calming the nervous system for over 4000 years. It promotes longevity and cleansing, to help your body function at its best. The movement is gentle and co-ordinated with the breath to gather and store ‘chi’, the life force that is energy. As with most breath work, the focus is on the present moment, helping reduce any anxiety and fear, improving focus and concentration. It can be practiced by all ages and all levels of fitness.
We have selected a few excellent instruction videos for you – try it and reap the benefits!