Yoga breathing techniques forms an integral part of any yoga practise irrespective of the style of yoga. Although most new students tend to focus on the physical benefits of the stretching postures envisioning a strong lithe and supple body, yoga breathing is as important and the benefits are far reaching. Whilst most students take some time to learn about the many yoga breathing techniques and the multitude of subsequent benefits, it is important to learn to become aware of the breath as early as possible.

There are many good books available on yoga breathing techniques so beginning to incorporate this study into the daily yogic session is not that difficult. If you are really interested in learning more, you can also look online and research any of the many yoga specialist websites to find out how you can get started.

Ideally of course, it is wise to study yoga breathing techniques whilst in the presence of a qualified yoga teacher whether on a one to one or as part of a yoga class.

There are numerous benefits to practicing the techniques regularly:

- Helps to eradicate stress from the body
- Reduces anxieties
- Helps with dizziness and insomnia
- It can even help control and reduce heart palpitations

Yoga breathing however can be specifically aimed at aiding the progression of the yoga postures themselves. Beginners usually find some of the extreme positions of postures too difficult to achieve and the yoga philosophy is that the student should never stretch too far or put strain on the muscles, joints and ligaments.

Students should learn to listen to the body and use the breath to relax tight muscles when first entering the posture, this intense focus on the breath during the hold of the extreme position, means that the student can easily feel when the muscles begin to relax into the new position often allowing the student to be able to ease into the posture by an additional inch or two. This two-fold attack on muscular tension ensures that natural progressions within yogic realms are experienced. Regular practice of the physical moves coupled with those all important yoga breathing techniques ensure a productive and balanced yoga session.