In traditional yoga, breath work (pranayama) is as important as, if not more important than, the practice of physical postures (asana). Breath has often been called the bridge, as in the bridge between: the ‘outer’ practices of physical asana and the ‘inner’ practices of meditation (between body and mind); the conscious and unconscious; thought and feeling. Breath is the meeting place, not unlike the village well, where all of our ‘selves’ commingle and commune. Everything comes together in breath. This traditional centrality of breath, breathwork, of pranayama, has not translated well into contemporary yoga practices and styles: breath is typically given short shrift. Why? It likely has to do with our preoccupation with what can be controlled, on willful action, on our greater ability to control the voluntary muscles in asana practice than to control breath.For breathing, while it can be consciously controlled to some extent, is ultimately not under our control.
The series begins with basic breath awareness, on the mechanics and physiology of healthy vs unhealthy breathing patterns. You will learn correct diaphragmatic breathing technique. At the same time, you will learn to recognize and uncover your instinctive, spontaneous breathing, which cannot be taught, only liberated by removing from breathing any harmful effects of stress, fear, anxiety, depression, etc. This dichotomy of control alternating with spontaneity will inform the entire series as we build our knowledge and skills toward advanced variations of yogic breath and meditation practices.
Join Joe Roberson for a 6 part series exploring the power of breath work at Sky House Yoga in Silver Spring, Maryland.
Check out the Breathing Community on Facebook for discussion and community.
Register here.