The different ways of breathing in a hot yoga class

In a hot yoga class breath control is fundamental in order to keep your core temperature down, your mind focused and stress levels low. There are several different ways to breathe so here is a breakdown of all of them.

Pranayama Deep Breathing
Using the arms as bellows expands the ribcage to create more space for the lungs and with practice increases their capacity. Deep slow breath in through the nose by constricting at the back of the throat to control the breath, slow controlled exhale through the mouth with a HAAA sound, both to a count of 6.

Kapalbhati
Breath of Fire. Clears the mind and removes any toxins from the lungs. Pump the belly in and out rapidly, placing emphasis on the exhale. The breathing comes from the belly not the chest or upper part of the respiratory system.

Normal breathing
In and out through the nose, no use of the mouth whatsoever. Maintaining a count of 6 in and 6 out creates a perfect rhythm and gives the mind a point of concentration, which is very helpful when you are struggling or want to increase your awareness level. Focusing on slowing down the exhale helps to slow the heart rate when it shoots up.

Ujjai breath
Slow, controlled breath through the nose by creating a constriction in the throat. It creates a sound similar to the ocean. There are many demonstrations on YouTube if you need some guidance.

80/20 breathing
Fill the lungs up to 100% before going into a pose and then when in the pose, release 20% and sip the breath in and out using this 20% space at the top of the lungs. Very useful for postures on the belly or when the spine needs support, like half moon.