Most people begin their yoga practice with the view that they are working towards suppleness, limber bodies and a healthier physique in general and they are right of course, but yoga is about much more than that, the benefits are so far reaching that it is impossible to list them all. Yoga and the breath when practiced regularly and diligently can help to increase our life spans and improve overall health.

Careful study of yoga and the breath can help to increase the flexibility and capacity of the lungs, increasing the oxygen with vital nutrients and it also helps in eliminating toxins from our bodies and calms the nervous system. Not enough attention is paid to yoga and the breath, most of the focus is on the asansas' (postures) which although is extremely important, yoga is all about achieving balance of mind, body and spirit.

Focus on correct breathing is vital even whilst doing yoga postures or whether mundane chores around the house. Correct and deep breathing can help eliminate stress from the body; help reduce anxiety, insomnia, heart palpitations and even dizziness. Becoming proficient with the yogic breathing techniques means that the breath can be used whilst striving for difficult advanced postures as correct breathing at this time and during the holds' can help the body to relax and let go of the tension stored within the muscles, enabling the practitioner to stretch that little bit further.

Breathing through the nose is important too. So many people breathe through their mouths either through having cold or sinus problems or just from habit and this can affect the development of the thyroid gland. The nose has protective qualities to help prevent impurities or infections which could potentially harm the lungs, so it is essential that we strive to breathe the correct way.

The mind and body can become relaxed through careful use of yoga and the breath and it is also beneficial in that it can help with tension, problem solving, and clarity of mind as well other physiological benefits. Embracing the power of the yogic breathing techniques also help the yoga practitioner to become more focused and ready to learn how to meditate.