The purpose of the Cleansing Breath is to clean and clear out your lungs. This breath is unique, because instead of exhaling through your nose, you exhale through your mouth as you purse your lips. Pursing your lips creates pressure on your airways and helps keep them open so stale air can exit your lungs. It feels almost as though you're releasing pent-up emotions when you do the Cleansing Breath. In effect, you emit a "sigh of relief."
If you can, practice the Cleansing Breath outside in the fresh morning air. Follow these steps to practice a Cleansing Breath:
1. Inhale a Complete Breath comfortably through your nostrils to the count of four to six.
2. Gently purse your lips as you strongly exhale to a count of four. Exhale vigorously so you make a loud whooshing sound. Feel your breath rising from the bottom to the top of your lungs in a dynamic and complete release. Refreshing, isn't it? You feel as though you're cleansing your entire system. Gently contracting your abdominal muscles as you exhale helps push the air out.
Complete this breath four to six times.Many people who study yoga report that the most practical lessons they learn from their studies are not only how to exercise and meditate, but also how to breathe in new and conscious ways that change their lives for the better. Before you read yoga book, take a breath and notice how you feel. Notice the air going in and out of your lungs and how the air feels in your nose, mouth, and throat. The breath you're taking now could be one of the last you take in the old way.