Eight Limbs of Yoga Studies: PRANAYAMA

We have explored the first three limbs of yoga... 1. Yamas (outer ethical codes) 2. Niyamas (the the inner, personal ethical practices) 3. Asana (postures) & today we move to the 4th limb of yoga... ⁠
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♥️Pranayama♥️
(Breath Control)⁠⁠
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With practice & loving patience we can create a beautiful relationship with our breath 💨  ⁠
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Let's practice: ⁠
⁠Take a moment to wiggle around in your seat. ⁠Find a bit of comfort.
✨Perhaps you notice your breath. ⁠
✨Notice what happens as you inhale. ⁠
✨Notice what happens as you exhale. ⁠
✨You might want to lengthen your inhale. ⁠
✨Perhaps you want to open your mouth as you exhale. ⁠
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Patanjali shared that breath control can be⁠:⁠
💫bahya vritti = internal/inhale⁠
💫abhyantara vritti = external/exhale⁠
💫stambha vritti =⁠ stationary/retention⁠
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A self-reflective question: ⁠
How do I stay connected to my breath? ⁠
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As we deepen our relationship with our breath we can learn to regulate our breath and relieve our minds of mental chatter... even if just for a few moments  Our breath & our mind are⁠ interconnected so be playful as you notice how your breathe supports you in slowing and calming your mind ✨
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In the Trauma-Informed Yoga Psychology School, we continually practice coming back to our breath... to connect with ourselves & each other ✨

Full of gratitude for one of my teachers, Susanna Barkataki, who inspires me to decolonize yoga by honouring the roots of yoga! Please consider getting yourself Susanna's book.⁠
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Would love to hear your reflections!⁠
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♥️ Dr. Melissa⁠ Jay