Natural Effortless Breathing
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Yoga Techniques and Fitness
Overview
In this lesson, we explore naming conventions related to natural breathing and diaphragmatic or belly breathing, and describe ways to teach them.
Objective
Become proficient in the naming conventions related to natural breathing and diaphragmatic or belly breathing; characteristics and benefits of natural breathing; and ways to teach belly breathing, the three-part breath and effortless breathing.
What You'll Get
Provide up to seven more names for Natural Breathing, or the expansion and contraction of the mid-body as the diaphragm moves. Describe some of the many benefits of natural breathing and simple breathing techniques. Since natural breathing is by definition effortless, explain why it needs to be taught. Describe the hallmarks of natural breathing and some simple ways to encourage natural, effortless breathing. Describe Belly Breathing and the Three-Part Breath. Provide a perspective on whether your visualization instruction to students should be to inhale up and exhale down, or to inhale down and exhale up.
Introduction
Breathing can become a graceful, integrated dance, and an abundant source of energy. – Denise Benitez
Naming Conventions
Natural breathing is associated with an expansion and contraction of the mid-body as the diaphragm moves. (Details below.)
Natural breathing is also called:
- Abdominal breathing
- Belly breathing*
- Diaphragmatic breathing*
- Effortless breathing
- Essential breathing
- Free breathing or Free Flow breathing
- Horizontal breathing
- Perfect breathing
*See clarification note below.
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