Ujjayi

"Pratiloma ujjayi" redirects here. For the interpersonal relationship, see Pratiloma.

Ujjayi (Sanskrit, "victorious") is a breathing technique employed in a variety of yoga practices. In the context of yoga, it is sometimes called "the ocean breath." Unlike some other forms of pranayama, the ujjayi breath is typically done in association with asana practice in some styles of yoga as exercise, such as Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga.

Etymology

"Ujjayi" (उज्जायी) comes from the Sanskrit prefix "ud" (उद्) and root "ji" (जि): "ujji" (उज्जि), meaning "to be victorious". It thus means "one who is victorious".

Technique

Ujjayi breath is a type of diaphragmatic breathing through which the throat muscles of the glottis are slightly constricted, causing the air to produce a whispering, audible vibration as it passes in and out the vocal cords. Inhalation and exhalation are both done through the nose and the resultant sound must be audible enough for the practitioner to hear but not so loud as to be heard by someone standing six feet away. The inhalations and exhalations are equal in duration and should be controlled in a natural manner that causes no discomfort to the practitioner.

Effects

According to Tirumalai Krishnamacharya, who taught the creators of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga and Iyengar Yoga, among others, Ujjayi Pranayama is a balancing and calming breath that increases oxygenation and builds internal body heat.

The technique may be used continuously throughout Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga and is frequently employed in Power Yoga and Vinyasa, or Flow Yoga. This form of breathing enables the practitioner to maintain a rhythm to their practice and take in enough oxygen. It also helps build energy to maintain the practice while simultaneously clearing toxins out of the body. This technique is especially important during the transition into and out of asanas (postures) as it helps practitioners stay present, self-aware and grounded in the practice, which is then endowed with a meditative quality.

The sound naturally calms the mind and draws attention to the breath, helping internalize awareness and keeping the breath smooth and even. Practicing ujjayi also allows the user to regulate and control the flow of breath and movement of the diaphragm. Additionally, it helps clean the throat and lungs, bringing up excess phlegm and mucus, and strengthens the diaphragm and throat muscles.

Ujjayi Breath is also known as Ujjayi Pranayama. Sometimes referred to as "cobra breathing", it is also a helpful way for the yogi or yogini to keep their vital life force (prana) circulating throughout the body, rather than escaping from it. Ujjayi is said to be similar to the breathing of a new-born baby before their prana begins to flow out into sensual perceptions and mental activity.

See also

• Kapalabhati
• Pranayama
• Pratiloma ujjayi is a variant of ujjayi breathing, inhaling and exhaling through alternate nostrils