In yoga, breathing is not an auxiliary element or an "add-on" to asanas. It is the main tool of self-regulation, through which practice becomes safe, therapeutic, and truly mindful.


From a physiological perspective, breathing is directly connected to the autonomic nervous system. By changing the nature of breathing—its rhythm, depth, and the ratio of inhalation to exhalation—we influence the balance between:


‍🏃‍♀️the sympathetic system (when we are active, tense, mobilized, ready to act)
🥱the parasympathetic system (when we relax, recover, adapt)


Importantly, breathing is one of the few processes that:
🧩works automatically
🧩and can be consciously changed


That is why through breathing we can gently influence both the body and the mind, without pressure or force.


In yoga practice, breathing performs several functions at once:


🪄sets the pace of movement
🪄indicates whether the load is adequate
🪄helps regulate muscle tone
🪄keeps attention in the present moment


If breathing becomes irregular, shallow, or if there is a pause—this is not a "bad practice," but a clear signal of overload.
In life, it works the same way. When we live under stress for a long time, breathing becomes shallow and rapid.


The most interesting part is that it works in reverse too! By returning to calmer, more rhythmic breathing, we gradually reduce the background level of stress.


Therefore, in yoga, breathing is not a technique for the sake of technique, but a way to learn to be in contact with yourself.


📝 Task for the day. Observe your breathing throughout the day: what it becomes when you are calm, when you are angry, or when you are in a hurry.


Tell me what you noticed?