Pranayama, the practice of breath regulation, is one of Pantanjali’s eight limbs of yoga and a fundamental part of a holistic yoga practice. Each pranayama technique offers a set of unique benefits, and the application of a specific practice in the right moment can greatly enhance your yoga practice and promote well-being. Recent breath work and breathing physiology research has further deepened our understanding of how different breathing techniques affect the body and mind, and it is clear that there is a lot of power in these practices, particularly when they are customised to individual needs.

This workshop will include an in-depth exploration of pranayama techniques, going beyond what is typically covered in a weekly group yoga class. You will not only learn how to practice a range of techniques, but also when and why we might apply each technique so you can begin to develop your own understanding of how to get the most out of your practice. Combining an intuitive pranayama experience with a discussion of therapeutic benefits as understood from traditional teachings and contemporary research, we will explore the relationship between breathing and the nervous system, and the effect of different breath characteristics on body physiology. We aim to equip you with tools to help you develop a personalised pranayama practice to suit your yoga practice and daily life.

This workshop will primarily involve sitting on our mats. Studio props will be available, but please bring anything else (such as a meditation cushion) that will help you sit comfortably for the duration. A hand out will be provided with some basic information, but please bring a pen and notebook if you would like to take additional notes.